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Infertility: Facing the Challenges While Maintaining Wellness
By Louise Kirkhope
as printed in the Fall 2008 issue of Island Child

Infertility is a medical condition affecting 1 in 6 couples. It is defined as the inability to achieve and maintain a pregnancy after regular intercourse without contraception for one year. If over 35, it is after six months. It is an unanticipated life crisis, very often unexplained, and lasting for an indeterminate length of time.

There is a myth out there that infertility is a woman’s problem. FACT: Infertility affects men and women equally. About 40% of cases are attributable to male factors, 40% to factors affecting women, 10% are a combination of male/female factors, and 10% of cases are unexplained. We live in a society in which people are delaying entering into marriage/partnership and consideration of parenthood until later in life, in part so that careers may be established. More women than ever before are in the work force. Advancing age can have a significant impact on fertility, with women in their late 30s having a harder time conceiving. With advancing age, rates of miscarriage also go up. Environmental factors also contribute to infertility. 

The overall emotional and psychological impact of infertility varies between individuals, but there are a number of commonalities. Most often the impact of infertility is immense. It affects the individual, the couple, and their relationship. It is unrelenting and can impact every aspect of life: self-esteem, sense of control, relationships with partner/family/friends, finances, career, and spirituality. It can cause a roller coaster of emotions: hopelessness, anxiety, depression, hostility, anger, despair, loss, isolation, and loneliness. 

When dealing with infertility, a multitude of difficulties may arise. These may include communication problems; differing views on treatment goals/options; sexual relationship issues for the couple (scheduled/lack of spontaneity); and overall an inordinate level of stress. People faced with the challenges of infertility may often hear well-meaning comments such as, ‘relax and you’ll get pregnant.’ Relaxing is not a guarantee of pregnancy. Infertility is very often due to problems of the reproductive system. However, a number of studies have shown that the more distressed a woman is when starting a fertility treatment cycle, the lower the pregnancy rates. 

Another study showed that the number one reason patients drop out of fertility treatment is not because their doctor was discouraging them from continuing, but because of their distress. Increasingly mind/body medicine is being used to help alleviate the stress associated with infertility. Mind/body medicine works from the premise that efforts to heal the mind will have a positive effect on the body. Stress, whether it be due to a perceived psychological or physical threat/danger, results in the ‘fight or flight’ response. 
The resulting release of stress hormones into the body can have a negative impact, particularly on the reproductive system. In fact, experiencing the stress response over the long term is harmful to most systems in your body. It is therefore important to find ways of calming the mind.

Mind/Body approaches that have been found to be beneficial include techniques such as relaxation training; enhancing communication skills; acupuncture; yoga; cognitive restructuring, and self-nurturance. Mind/Body fertility programs incorporate a multitude of mind/body approaches and have been found to be highly effective in reducing physical stress symptoms, such as headache, insomnia, and fatigue; as well as reducing emotional distress. 

Counselling may be beneficial to address relationship issues, learn coping strategies, enhance communication, and explore treatment decisions/options. Support groups are a wonderful venue for reducing isolation surrounding infertility.

BPA – A Plastic of the Past
By Kwyn Maxwell
as printed in the Summer 2008 issue of Island Child

I know ‘breast is best’ but what about those of us who, try as we might, just cannot do it? I had to supplement both of my children because I just could not produce enough milk, despite everything. So my doctor and I decided I would give my son a bottle to supplement feed. The Avent bottle was recommended, as I should be able to continue to breastfeed as well. Now with horror, I see that it is on the list of bottles now being pulled from the shelves. 

There is concern that the man-made chemical BPA, used to make most baby bottles and other shatterproof plastic food containers, leaches chemicals into food and liquid. The chemical BPA has shown to have hormone-like effects on the reproductive system and an increased significance of prostate and uterine cancer in lab rats. Although there is no evidence that this occurs in humans exposed to this chemical, Canada is moving to ban products containing BPA. So what are the alternatives?

Here is a list of some of the products out there that are not only safer but environmentally friendly as well.

BPA safe bottles:

• Dr. Browns - started making BPA-free plastic bottles about 10 years ago and recently added glass bottles to their product list.

• Born Free - carries a plastic BPA-free bottle, a glass bottle, as well as a dishwasher-safe sippy cup. Some complaints of slight leaking from the sippy cup (available at London Drugs).

• Evenflo - has been producing glass bottles for years (available at Zellars).

• Weego - glass bottles covered with a removable silicone sleeve. Very tactile for babies as well as added protection against bumps and thumps for those babies that like to toss
(available at The Good Planet and www.tinygiggles.ca).

• Silkskin - glass bottles covered with a removable silicone sleeve (available at www.stylekid.ca).

BPA safe sippy cups: 

• The Safe Sippy - comes with removable handles and a colourful silicone grip area. It is said to be one of the lightest of the stainless steel sippy cups (available at 
www.tinygiggles.ca).

• Foogo by Thermos - stainless steel body that is dishwasher safe. Only drawback is that it is reported to be a little heavy for little hands (see www.thermosbrand.ca for retailers).

Kleen Kanten - stainless steel sippy cup for more advanced toddlers, as there are no handles (available at The Good Planet).

BPA safe soother:
• Natursutten Eco soother made from the pure rubber of the rubber tree and is free of phthalates, BPA and parabens (available at www.tinygiggles.ca).

Bed Wetting
by Dr. Glen Ward
as printed in the Winter 2007 issue of Island Child


Q: My son just turned 4 and wets the bed at least once a week. Is this common for his age?

A: It is important to explain that bedwetting is not his fault. Bedwetting is a normal developmental process where a child urinates without knowing it while sleeping. Most, but not all children, stop bedwetting between the ages of 5 and 6 years. 

Bedwetting is NOT caused by medical, emotional or behavioural problems. There is nothing ‘wrong’ with your child. Bedwetting is most often simply related to deep sleep. Your child does not wake up when his bladder is full because he is such a deep sleeper. Less often children have smaller bladders, or produce more urine during the night. Some children who suffer from constipation may also experience bedwetting because of the bowel pressing on the bladder. In fact, scientists have discovered a gene for bedwetting. If one parent wet the bed as a child, their child has a 25% risk of bedwetting. If both parents wet the bed as children, their child’s risk increases to about 65%. Bedwetting is more common in boys.

Children usually outgrow bedwetting. By 5 years of age, 15% of all children wet the bed. By 8 years, 6 to 8% wet the bed. Even without treatment, this number goes down to 2% by 15 years of age. However as your child gets older, bedwetting may affect his self-esteem and can interfere with social activities like sleepovers.

One treatment is an alarm that the child wears at night which goes off when he starts to pee. The goal of the alarm is to teach him to wake up when he has a full bladder. Studies show that alarms work in only about 50% of children who use them, so it is best to talk to your doctor before you decide to buy one. Also, alarms usually wake up others in the house, so they are not practical for sleepovers or camp.

Whether you and your doctor decide to treat the bedwetting or simply wait for him to outgrow it, be sure that he knows bedwetting is not a bad behaviour. It is not his fault. Reassurance and support are very important.

To help reduce and manage your child’s bedwetting you can:

• Make sure your child does not drink too much fluid before bedtime. 
• Avoid drinks with caffeine (such as colas).
• Encourage him to go to the bathroom before bedtime.
• Make sure he can easily reach the bathroom at night. For example, use a night light in the hall or in the bathroom. 
• Use a hospital-strength plastic mattress cover to avoid damage to the mattress. 
• Place a large towel underneath the sheet for extra absorption. 
• Leave a towel and change of clothes in case your child does wake up.
• Help him to wash well in the morning so that there is no smell. 

You should talk to your doctor if he:

• Wants to be dry at night and is concerned by the bedwetting.
• Is having daytime accidents.
• Is dry for many months and then suddenly starts bedwetting.
• Has other symptoms such as a frequent need to pee or a burning sensation when he pees.
• Is still wetting at 5 to 6 years of age (or older). 

Pinkeye
By Dr. Glen Ward
as printed in the Fall 2007 issue of Island Child

Q. My daughter is in her first year of school. Pinkeye is circulating among her classmates. How can we tell if she is affected or prevent her from getting it?

A. An inflammation of the covering of the eye is called conjunctivitis. This can be caused by many factors such as chemical irritants in your child’s environment, allergies and viral or bacterial infections. 

Children with a bacterial conjunctivitis or pinkeye complain of a scratchy feeling or pain in their eyes. The infection turns the whites of the eyes pink or red with a lot of watery secretions or pus (thick yellow discharge). When the child wakes up, pus or discharges often make the eyelids stick together. 
Pinkeye is easily spread from person to person when: 

• a child with the infection touches the discharge from his or her eye and then touches another child; 

• an uninfected child touches the discharge of the infected child and then touches his or her own eyes; 

• an adult wipes an infected child's eyes and then touches his or her or another person's eyes. 

Pinkeye caused by bacteria is usually associated with pus and can be treated and cured with an antibiotic (eye drops or ointment). Antibiotics can also stop the infection from spreading to others. When a virus causes conjunctivitis, the discharge is more often watery and warm water compresses are usually the only treatment needed.
Watch your child for signs and symptoms of pinkeye if cases are circulating in her school. It is not easy to tell whether bacteria or a virus causes the infection. It may be necessary for your physician to see your child to determine if antibiotic treatment is needed.
To prevent further spread, ensure that you and your child wash your hands very carefully after touching or wiping the child's eyes. Do not let your child share towels or washcloths with anyone else, because this could spread the infection. If your child's eyes have pus (thick yellow discharge), she should not return to the child care facility or to school until treatment with antibiotics have been given for 24 hours. 

Dr. Glen Ward is a general paediatrician in the Surrey area. He is a member of the Board of Directors and Public Education Subcommittee of the Canadian Paediatric Society.

For more information on your child's growth and development, visit the Canadian Paediatric Society’s website at www.caringforkids.cps.ca or www.soinsdenosenfants.cps.ca

Acupressure for Children
By Kareen Holyer
as printed in the Spring 2007 issue of Island Child

Children are as susceptible to stress as adults are, with the resulting consequences of dis-ease, misbehaviour, or health issues. Perhaps children are even more so. While adults create their environment, children are dependant on adults to create theirs. Parents sometimes feel helpless or anxious when their child is ill, often because the results are easily noticeable, while the cause is not.

According to Five Element Theory used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), illness is due to an imbalance of Yin (feminine energy) and Yang (masculine energy) within the mind/body/spirit continuum. Vital energy, or Qi (chi), is associated with the various organ systems of the body. When this flow of Qi is disrupted due to, for example, an injury, the result can be pain and/or dis-ease. A complementary holistic health modality gaining popularity in public awareness is Acupressure. Acupressure is based on the same meridian system, or energy channels, as TCM Acupuncture. However, it is non-invasive because the practitioner applies finger pressure instead of needles. Strategically asserting finger pressure on specific acu-points encourages the body to respond by letting go of tension or stress which, in turn, allows the body to re-adjust itself into a natural balance of Yin/Yang energies.

Children respond well to acupressure for many reasons, one is the gentle application of touch. Another reason is that most children have not built up the “armour” of emotional resistance adults can sometimes carry. In adults, acupressure helps release many stress-related health issues, such as: head or backaches, hormone imbalances, anxiety, depression, insomnia, Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, digestive disorders, and muscle/tendon injuries, just to name a few. In children, acupressure can also help relieve hyperactivity, autism, behavioural issues and learning difficulties (www.acupuncture.com).

Sessions with children are usually between ½ - 1 hour long, depending on the child’s age, health issue, and mood. Responses to a treatment are as diverse as the clients. A teen client low in energy slept through most of a session and awoke refreshed. An eleven-year old client, diagnosed with Spina Bifida Occulta, had greater control over bladder and improved bowel movements after several visits.

Jin Shin Do ® Acupressure, founded by Iona Maarsa Teeguarden, is a specific approach to acupressure application. Jin Shin Do ® loosely translated means “the Way of the Compassionate Spirit.” The practitioner works from a place of empathy. This is particularly important when working with children, or anyone for that matter, because it is trust that allows the body and mind to relax and be open to receiving the health benefits of Jin Shin Do ® Acupressure.

Protecting Your Child’s Teeth from Sugars
By Jacqueline Geraghty and Heather Cooper, Dental Hygienists
as printed in the December/January 2007 issue of Island Child

Teeth are at risk for tooth decay from the first day they appear in the mouth. The bacteria found in your child’s mouth play a role in tooth decay. Did you know that tooth decay bacteria can be passed on to the child from other family members? Therefore, it is important for all family members to have a healthy mouth. 

The foods we eat and drink also play a role in the type of bacteria found in our mouth. Tooth decay can occur depending on the frequency or duration of exposure to ‘sticky’ foods or liquids that contain sugars. Sugar provides food for the bacteria that causes cavities and also increases the acid levels in your mouth. An increase in acidity of the mouth can lead to tooth decay. It is best to eat sugary foods like a dessert or beverage with a meal rather that over a period of time. This limits the number of sugary acid attacks the teeth are exposed to and therefore decreases the risk of tooth decay.

Snacks are also an important part of a child’s daily food intake, not just a “treat” between meals. Here are some suggestions on healthy snacks for hungry and thirsty children: unsweetened applesauce, raw vegetables, raw fruits, fruit juices, vegetable juices, milk, cheese, ice milk, milk puddings, yogurt, eggs, nuts, peanut butter, seeds, bagels, cereals, pita breads, yogurt drinks. Of course, the healthiest thirst quencher is water and you should encourage your child to drink water throughout the day. 

Also, remember brushing and flossing your child’s teeth after meals is the ideal way to decrease the risk of tooth decay. A child is able to brush alone only when they have the ability to write, not just print their name. This is usually around the age of 8 years old.

It is recommended that your child has their first visit to the dental clinic around his or her first birthday, but it could be sooner if you notice anything that concerns you. When the first dental visit happens at a young age it usually means that it will be a fun experience for your child. Good dental habits start when you are young and your dental hygienist is perfectly situated to talk about tooth brushing, flossing, eating habits and fluoride. 

At Harbour City Dental Hygiene, we encourage parents to bring their children with them for a comfortable, fun orientation prior to their routine cleaning appointment. Keep Your Smile Awhile! See a Registered Dental Hygienist.

Chiropractic Care for Ear Infections
By Dr. vanessa White, DC
as printed in the October/November 2006 issue of Island Child

Ear infections are the most common reason that a child will visit a medical doctor and receive a prescription for antibiotics. New research, published in the July 2006 edition of the Journal of the American Medical Association, has explained why many children with chronic otitis media (middle ear infections) don’t respond to antibiotics. The research shows that children with chronic ear infections have a slime-like substance in the middle ear that experts call bacterial “biofilm.” Bacteria living in biofilms are metabolically resistant to antibiotics. This research makes a definitive, scientifically based statement against the use of these drugs to treat children with chronic ear infections. Antibiotics also increase the risk of breeding more resistant strains of bacteria. The researchers have proposed that future medical treatment will consist of flooding the ear with probiotics, or “good bacteria”, that prevent the formation of biofilms. 

Many parents have opted for a more natural approach to ear infections, and regularly consult their family chiropractor. Chiropractic care for otitis media is based on research studies showing that children may get ear infections as a result of improper drainage of the lymphatic system and swelling of the cervical (neck) lymph nodes. If the lymph nodes in the neck do not drain properly, they will begin to swell, and can compress the eustachian tubes. The eustachian tubes allow air to flow between the middle ear and the throat, and allow proper drainage of fluid from the middle ear. The lymphatic drainage system can be affected by tightness and contraction of the neck muscles and misalignments in the neck. 

Doctors of Chiropractic specialize in restoring normal function to the spine and nervous system by correcting subluxations, small misalignments in the spine. Subluxations can occur from the birth process, falls, accidents and many other everyday activities in childhood. Subluxations result in abnormal nerve function, which can result in tight neck muscles, and decreased lymphatic drainage from the middle ear. Nerve imbalance can also lead to altered immune function, and a weaker immune response. 

Chiropractic adjustments for infants and children are gentle (only a couple of ounces of pressure), specific and safe. The areas of spinal subluxations that correlate with ear infections are usually the upper neck area. Recent research has shown that the symptoms and signs of the ear infection typically resolve within 6 to 11 days after chiropractic care begins, and after 4 to 6 adjustments. Chiropractic is a natural and drug free approach to better health and well-being.

Middle Ear Infections
By Dr. Glen Ward
as printed in the October/November 2006 issue of Island Child

Most children have had an ear infection by the age of three. The most common childhood ear infections affect the middle ear. Viruses or bacteria get inside the ear and cause an infection or inflammation (swelling). This is diagnosed by looking at the ear drum (tympanic membrane).

A middle ear infection often follows another illness, such as a cold. Along with the usual symptoms of a cold, including fever, lack of energy and loss of appetite, children with an ear infection often: 
• have ear-aches,
• are irritable (fussy),
• have trouble sleeping,
• tug or pull at their ear,
• have fluid draining from their ear,
• lose their balance, 
• don’t respond to quiet sounds. 

Almost all middle ear infections in children less than two years of age are treated with antibiotics. When children are older and they do not have too much discomfort, the doctor may give them a painkiller, like acetaminophen, and re-examine them two or three days later to see if antibiotic treatment is needed. Most ear infections are not serious and heal well. Many antibiotics will work to treat bacterial ear infections. Doctors will prescribe one that is specific to the type of bacteria causing the infection. 

Most children feel better within the first two or three days. But to cure the infection, they must take all the medication prescribed. Your child will probably have to return for a follow-up exam to see if the infection has cleared. In some cases, once the infection clears, fluid may stay in the middle ear for several weeks and can sometimes cause temporary hearing loss. Usually, this fluid drains on its own and hearing improves without any medical treatment. In the meantime, your child may develop another ear infection and have to seek further treatment. If fluid remains in the ear for more than three months and causes hearing loss, a young child’s speech and language could be affected. Occasionally, in some of these cases, a tube may have to be inserted into the middle ear through the eardrum in order for the fluid to drain. This operation is usually done on an outpatient basis by an oto-rhino-laryngologist (ear, nose, and throat surgeon). Although the majority of ear infections are caused by colds, other factors can cause them to be more frequent, including exposure to cigarette smoke, using a pacifier (soother), bottle-feeding while lying down, and allergies. Ask your doctor about other ways to decrease ear infections, such as vaccination against pneumococcus, one of the bacteria that can cause the infection. This vaccine has been shown to reduce acute ear infections with a perforated drum by 65 per cent. You can also get information on the vaccine from the CPS publication 
Your Child’s Best Shot available at www.cps.ca. 

Contact your doctor if your child is taking antibiotics for an ear infection, and has any of the following symptoms: 
• an ear-ache even after 2-3 days of treatment,
• a fever over 39oC (102oF) or a fever that lasts more than three days,
• is very sleepy, 
• is still fussy or cranky, 
• has a skin rash,
• is breathing quickly or has trouble breathing, or
• is not hearing well.

Naturally Healthy Children
By Dr. Deidre O’Neill, Naturopathic Physician
as printed in the October/November 2006 issue of Island Child

As a society, we are becoming more aware of how to promote healthy growth and development in our children through a whole foods diet, exercise and unconditional love. However, the environment to which our children are exposed plays a crucial role in how this healthy foundation is acted out in the prevention of serious diseases. 

Children of this century have higher exposures to enviromental toxins than our ancestors. Our body has not genetically caught up to our industrial revolution. We have not evolved to be able to completely detoxify this accumulation of toxins which can be more harmful to young developing bodies. The occurrence of diseases directly attributed to enviromental exposure is rising. Children are exposed to harmful byproducts of our industrialized society starting in the prenatal period. What needs to be addressed is the accumulation of toxins over time and the effects of a variety of chemicals on the body. There are increasing episodes of asthma in children today as compared to twenty years ago. As well, cancer is seen as the 4th leading cause of death in children, while one in three adults are expected to have cancer in their lifetime. Both of these diseases were not common in our great grandparents’ time. 

I would like to present to you a few ways to improve our children’s environmental health. Along with the arrival of a baby comes a plethora of plastics – from toys to bottles to packaged foods. Anything your child comes in contact with goes directly into the mouth. Your child may be absorbing harmful chemicals like phthalates and bisphenyl A from these plastics. Consider replacing plastic toys with wood, cloth or natural fibers. Buy food in glass or paper rather than plastic. Common cleaning products can damage our organs with regular use. Safety tests have been done on single chemicals, however tests have not been done on the interaction of many chemicals nor have long term studies been performed. 

A useful website that details the concern about home and body care products is www.ewg.org. Make a visit to the Cowichan Green Community or any of the health food stores in the Cowichan Valley for resources on nontoxic body and home care products. Ingested chemicals found in our food chain can mimic estrogen’s role in our bodies. These chemicals have been termed xenoestrogens and biochemically stimulate our cells to grow. This is why I promote our children to eat organic meat, chicken and dairy. As well, I encourage the consumption of a plethora of antioxidants through colourful fruits and vegetables. 

As a naturopathic family physician, I view the prevention of disease to come from not only annual exams but also the promotion of a healthy diet, lifestyle and environment right from the start. I strongly focus on teaching families how to live with nature and to support a developing immune system.

Bug Bite Protection for Children
by Dr. Glen ward, Pediatrician
as printed in the August/September 2006 issue of Island Child

At best, insect bites are annoying. At worst, they could cause a local skin infection. Mosquitoes and biting flies can carry disease like West Nile virus. In Canada, though, reports of such cases are relatively rare, and serious illness is not common. There are several ways to avoid insect bites, including wearing long pants and long-sleeved shirts when outdoors, avoiding places where mosquitoes breed and live, like standing water, regularly draining standing water from items like toys, flower pots, cans, buckets, barrels, old tires and pool covers, staying inside when mosquitoes are most active (dawn, dusk and early evening) and using insect repellent. Insect repellents contain a chemical called DEET, which keeps flies and mosquitoes away. Not all products have the same DEET concentration or amount which is expressed as a percentage, such as 10% DEET. Insect repellents that are used on children should have a small concentration of DEET, depending on how old the children are.

Like any chemical, insect repellents should be used wisely. When using insect repellent on children, always read the entire label first. Apply the product lightly for them and do not use more than you need. Do not apply on irritated or sunburned skin. Apply it only on top of clothing or to skin that is showing, avoiding using it under clothes. Do not get it in eyes. If you do, rinse your eyes with water right away. Do not spray children’s hands - they will be less likely to get it into their eyes or mouth. If you are spraying, be careful not to breathe it. Always spray products in a place that is well ventilated. Do not spray it in a tent or near food.

When you do not need the sun protection anymore, wash the skin with soap and water. If you think your child is having a reaction to the product, wash the skin and get medical help right away. Take the container with you so the doctor knows what you used.

If your child is under six months old, do not use insect repellents with DEET. It is advised for children aged 6 months to 12 years to use a product with 10% DEET or less. Use just a little bit of the product and do not apply it to the child’s face or hands. Although there is no known hazard to breastfed infants, nursing mothers may wish to consider DEET alternatives, such as using protective clothing and avoiding exposure to insects. Products containing citronella or lavender oil should not be used on infants.

The amount of time the product protects against insect bites depends on how much DEET it has:
• 30% DEET provides about 6.5 hours of protection
• 15% DEET provides about 5 hours of protection
• 10% DEET provides about 3 hours of protection
• 5% DEET provides about 2 hours of protection

In Canada, products with a higher concentration of DEET (above 30%) are not available. Products containing citronella and lavender oil are currently being evaluated for their safety.

More Than Just Pregnancy
by Leah Byron, Holistic Nutritionist
as printed in the June/July 2006 issue of Island Child

Becoming a holistic nutritionist is far from what I imagined as I anticipated and prepared for motherhood. Eagerly preparing the nursery, attending pre-natal classes and reading everything pertaining to pregnancy, gave me the confidence that birth and motherhood would be just as I expected ~ PERFECT!

While I thought ahead to the future and all its perfections, the present was quickly taking its toll. By nine months, I had gained 70 +lbs, my once lean frame was now mapped with stretch marks and swollen from water retention. I had fallen to the myth that many expecting mothers do... ‘you are eating for two now so you must eat, and eat a lot’. I had disregarded the quality of foods eaten and placed my focus on quantity. This gave most of the nutrients I was taking in straight to the baby and quickly depleted any surplus I may have had.

The night I gave birth to a healthy 9½ lb boy, the elation left and my body, now starving for nutrients and experiencing hormonal havoc, fell into what became an 8-week black hole.

Postpartum Depression is a condition that has received a lot of media attention lately. When I experienced it, it was still something that was quietly talked about behind the closed door of your family Doctor. I felt it had a social stigma attached to it as any other mental illness does.

When this label first entered my vocabulary I was in shock and disbelief. How could this happen to me? WE had planned this, WE had a good life and WE were so prepared and excited! I began to wonder where I went wrong. I started to read, nearly obsessed to find a reason as to why this had happened to ME! Several options were presented to me and I researched what was safest for my nursing baby and myself. After several weeks of reading and suffering I got serious and began making some realistic changes. I experimented with different foods, eliminating and adding them, began taking various supplements and started a flexible exercise plan. Within a week I was starting to remember my old self.

Finally I began to feel as I thought a new mother should and as I fell into the roll I reflected on my life-changing experience with Postpartum Depression and realized that mothers not only need to talk about it but know that there is hope for this once silent imbalance.
There are safe and healthy solutions accessible through trained professionals.

After the birth of my second child 18 months later I enrolled in school and although exhausted I was determined to graduate and begin helping others find their way to wellness. Now instead of wondering why this happened to ME, I not only understand but am thankful as I have helped myself and now I have helped others. Knowledge is everything!

Chiropractic Care for Colic
by Dr. Vanessa White, Chiropractor
as printed in the June/July 2006 issue of Island Child

Colic is one of the most common reasons that a parent will seek the advice of a Chiropractor during their baby’s first year of life. The characteristics of colic are excessive paroxysmal crying, gastrointestinal problems, and irritability. Colic usually begins at three weeks of age and lasts until three to four months of age.

Research into colic has provided no supportive evidence of a link between the mother’s diet, breastfeeding versus formula fed infants, allergic reactions, or emotional stress within the family.

Chiropractic focuses primarily on improving the function of the nervous system, by detecting subtle misalignments in the spine called subluxations. The infant’s spine is frequently misaligned, or subluxated, during the birth process. The function of the digestive system is controlled through the autonomic nervous system. Subluxations in the spine can upset the fine balance of nerve control of the digestive tract resulting in excessive intestinal gas, irritability, and muscle contraction.

Several chiropractic research studies have been conducted to ascertain the effectiveness of chiropractic care for colic. In one study 316 infants with moderate to severe colic received chiropractic adjustment. 94% of the infants showed a satisfactory response within two weeks of chiropractic care. JMPT 1989 Aug; 12(4): 281-288.

In another study conducted in Denmark two groups of infants with colic where studied. One group received chiropractic care, and the other group was managed medically with the drug dimethicone. By trial days 4 to 7, hours of crying were reduced by 1 hour in the dimethicone group compared with 2.4 hours in the chiropractic group. From trial day 5 onward the chiropractic group did significantly better that the dimethicone group. JMPT 1999 Oct; 22(8):517–522.

Chiropractic adjustments are gentle, specific, and safe for the infant. The adjustment for an infant is very different than an adult chiropractic adjustment. In my chiropractic practice I see many baby’s with colic, ear infections, stomach problems, and sleeping problems. The areas in the spine that are usually subluxated, misaligned causing nervous system imbalance, are the upper neck, thoracic spine, and lower sacrum.

All You Need Are Your Hands
by Mia Parkin, Acupressure Practitioner and Doula
as printed in the June/July 2006 issue of Island Child

Did you know that in Ancient China family physicians were only paid as long as everyone was in good health? When someone fell ill, the doctor would not receive any payment until health was restored. Acupressure comes from this philosophy of health that is preventative in focus. By stimulating acu-points (which are located all over the body), with finger pressure, the body is aided to return to its natural state of balance. Acu-points are found along meridians, which are lines of energy that – similar to blood vessels – run along certain paths and form an intricate grid all over the body.

Because it does not require any tools or other gear – all you need are your hands – the knowledge of acupressure points comes in handy. A child’s late night coughing fit or tummy ache can be soothed efficiently and comfortably. It is also really empowering for children to know some of these “magic points” to be able to help themselves.

Parent’s can learn a neck and shoulder release that is relaxing and refreshing to give to each other after a long day.
To receive acupressure before, during, and after pregnancy is one of the ways you can achieve well-being through a time that can be strenuous and uncomfortable. In labour, acupressure prompts the body to work more efficiently. The release of endorphins - which block the pain receptors to the brain- helps to keep progressing. Acupressure has also a high success rate (about 70 %), in turning breech or other mal-positioned babies without any possible harmful side effects. Post-partum acupressure aids in speeding up recovery and is effective in avoiding or dealing with post-natal depression. Dads and other birth partners can learn a few useful points to support the pregnant or labouring mother and make a big difference.

Colic in a New Baby
by Dr. Glen ward, Pediatrician
as printed in the April/May 2006 issue of Island Child

Q: My daughter is nearly two months old and has been crying practically non-stop for almost three weeks, no matter what my husband and I do to console her. We think she might have colic but we're not sure how long it's supposed to last or what more we can do for her. What causes colic? Does this mean our daughter is ill? Are there ways to soothe her?

A: Most infants fuss at some time during the day. The term colic is used when excessive crying occurs in an infant with otherwise excellent health. During the episode, she will turn red, tighten her fists, and double-up her legs over a very tense tummy. It causes the infant to swallow air that they then burp or pass as wind. Usually, it is part of an adjustment to a changing environment or various stimuli such as noise or change in temperature. About two-thirds of normal healthy infants will go through these adjustments. Most of the time, crying will last between one to four hours, will occur once a day, and in the late afternoon or evening. If she cries for more than three hours per day, and three days per week, she is more likely to be labelled as "colicky." These long periods of crying should stop by the time your daughter is about three to four months of age.

We don't know for sure what causes colic. It has never been shown that there is anything wrong with the bowels of infants who cry excessively. Also, there is no strong evidence that the problem is due to gas, wind or food allergy. If you are breastfeeding, you should remain on your normal diet, since your baby’s colic is not really caused by what you eat. Avoid changing from one formula to another if you are bottle-feeding because it will usually not make any difference over time.

As difficult as it is to listen to your daughter cry for hours on end, it's a normal form of communication for healthy infants. Still, you will want to help her by assuring that she is comfortable, not too warm or cold, fed and not overfed, burped, changed and cuddled. Long periods of crying are very stressful for parents, which may make the problem of colic worse for both parents and baby. What you should remember is that colic during your daughter's first 3 to 4 months will not affect her health in future years.

Here is what you can do:

• Every effort should be made to maintain a regular routine. Don’t disrupt her schedule by excessive attempts to comfort her.
• When she is fussy, she’d do better if you didn’t handle her too much. She should not be passed from person to person and should not be frequently rocked , shook, patted and fed.
• Wrap her up snugly, comfortably cradle her and soothingly and gently hold her.
• Reducing the noise and light levels may also help. Steady smooth vibrations, such as a rocking chair or a ride in the car, help to quiet many infants.
• Most importantly, never shake your daughter. If her crying is frustrating you, get some help from someone you trust and take a break.

If you still haven't taken your daughter to see her pediatrician or your family doctor, I would advise you to do so. After evaluating the pattern of your daughter’s crying and performing a complete physical examination, he or she will be better able to tell whether your daughter does have colic and may have resources you can take home with you.

Your Child’s First Eye Exam
by Dr. Trevor Miranda, Optometrist
as printed in the April/May issue of Island Child

I am often asked “when is it a good time to bring my child in for an eye exam?” My answer is no time is too soon. Visual development is an active process that begins after birth and continues through the early childhood years. It is not an automatic process as many parents assume. Since you cannot see the world through your child’s eyes, symptoms of vision difficulties may not be apparent.

Each shape, movement, colour, texture and picture helps us to learn how to see and contributes to our visual skills development. At birth, a baby’s eyes should be professionally examined for signs of eye health problems. Infants with obvious eye disorders need to be evaluated in a timely manner, as future development is highly dependent on their ability to “learn” to see: 80% of learning is through the eyes.

Doctors of Optometry recommend a complete eye health examination for children before the age of three. Often, parents will say to me “my child can see everything”. It is not easy to detect disorders where vision is present but causing increased strain on the visual systems such as in hyperopia. Further, the binocular visual system and the coordination of both eyes working together is difficult to determine without a trained professional eye examination. Proper diagnosis of any vision disorder is crucial at an early stage of life, as the child’s lifelong ability is controlled by their experiences during these formative years. Conditions such as lazy eye need to be treated early in life to prevent permanent visual disability.

With modern examination equipment, optometrists are able to diagnose and detect visual disorders in any aged patient. No need to wait until your child knows the alphabet before booking an eye examination. A thorough eye examination can take place for any non-verbal person.

One area that is often overlooked is sun protection for the eyes of our children. Ultra-violet light can damage a child’s skin as well as their eyes and may cause premature eye disease later in life. Your child will get more UV exposure to the eyes in the first 16 years of life than in the rest of their life combined. This is due to the immature nature of the crystalline lens inside the eye allowing more UV light to penetrate to the back of the eye. Sunglasses for your infant and children are as necessary as sunscreen for your skin.

Every child deserves the best vision possible. It is important that your children have a complete optometric vision and eye health examination by age three. Their future vision depends on it.

An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure
by Linda Chan, Travel Medicine Registered Nurse
as printed in the April/May 2006 issue of Island Child

Today’s young families are more likely to be doing adventuresome travel than in previous generations. These trips may be long term for parents’ work or short term for a fun family vacation but both will be a lot more enjoyable with a little pre-planning.
 
Routine vaccinations should all be up to date for both the children and the parents (dirty cuts & wounds happen everywhere). A trip to your local Travel Medicine Clinic at least 2 weeks prior to travel to discuss risks at your destination and to receive advice for prevention, could be the most valuable thing you can do to ensure your family’s well being.

Sunscreens of at least SPF 15 are strongly recommended for children over age 6 months, as well as for adults. Sunburns before age 15 are associated with melanoma and other forms of skin cancer. Hats, sunglasses, and clothing to provide coverage will help protect your children both in the short term as well as in the future.

Diarrhea in children is a serious concern, especially in children under 3.

Scrupulous attention to hand washing and keeping toys, pacifiers, etc. clean will help reduce the chances of your child picking up any bacteria or viruses that may cause problems. Mothers who are nursing their infants are encouraged to continue while traveling! Keep the child’s finger nails short so the bugs can’t hide there when playing in the sand! Carry rehydration salts in your First Aid Kit and zinc oxide (for sore bottoms) in your diaper bag.

Identification in your child’s pocket (not easily seen by others) stating where the family are staying or how they can be reached are musts when in busy airports and crowded venues. Parents must be vigilant at all times in today’s world and must be conscious of their alcohol intake while overseeing their children at play. Bringing the comforts of home with you can spare everyone a lot of angst: that special Teddy Bear or blankie, the favorite bedtime story, familiar foods, pictures of a beloved pet.
 
Remember Grandma’s advice: “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”!

“Hey, Mom, where’s the peanut butter????” 

The Power and Necessity of Touch
by Laurie Chalmers, Mom and Shantala Baby Massage Instructor
as printed in the April/May 2006 issue of Island Child

It may not be common in North America to massage your baby, but for many parents around the world, massage is a routine part of their baby’s daily care.

In many countries, such as Africa, India, Bali, Fiji, New Guinea, New Zealand (among the Maori), Nigeria, Venezuela and the Soviet Union, babies are massaged with oil following their daily bath, prior to sleep time and for several months of their lives.1 These international parents know the importance of touch for their babies growth and development. This knowledge originally came to North American culture in the 80s and has steadily become more common here in Canada.

What has motivated parents around the world to give their babies daily massage? There are many benefits for the baby, and also for the one massaging the baby. As human beings, we connect with each other in four ways: through voice, eye contact, body language and touch. As we connect through these ways, we also form bonds with one another. A baby’s job is to build trust with her world - she does this by bonding with her caregivers. A healthy bond with your baby is also necessary in order for you to respond to your baby’s needs. Massaging your baby incorporates all four ways of connecting.

An important aspect of bonding is establishing and learning healthy boundaries. Our skin is literally our boundary with the world. A section of skin the size of a quarter contains a few million cells, a few hundred sweat glands, 50 nerve endings and 3 feet of blood vessels.2 It is no surprise then that babies are all senses and extremely sensitive to touch. Massaging your baby will give them a sense of themselves as individuals; it helps them discover where they end and the world begins. This promotes an incredible sense of security for them and will also help you to respect your baby’s cues and to understand what your baby is trying to communicate to you about their boundaries.

Massaging your baby does also have very concrete physical advantages. Studies through the Touch Research Institute have shown that babies who receive regular massage (3 to 4 times a week) have less pain associated with teething and constipation, less colic and lower stress responses to painful procedures such as inoculations.

Massage will assist the healing process during illness or recovery from trauma by easing physical pain and by helping to clear congestion. As well as aiding with physical discomfort, massage will help your baby to gain weight and to sleep better and longer. Massage provides both stimulation and relaxation. It stimulates baby’s respiration, circulation, digestion and elimination. It helps baby relax by clearing the day’s stimulations; deep tissue massage actually clears the ‘limbic’ part of the brain where new information is processed.

Parents around the world tune in each day, with their full attention, to massaging their babies. Attending to your baby with your soft and familiar voice, through your loving eye contact, with your expressive body language and through your firm, warm touch you consciously communicate love to your baby. Whether you are massaging your baby to relieve colic symptoms, to get a full night’s sleep or simply to enjoy and explore touching for the intimacy and bonding it provides, you will experience a greater understanding of who your baby is and a greater sense of self-confidence and self-esteem as a parent.

Massaging your baby is a mutually fulfilling experience, an ancient and international art with incredible gifts to be discovered.