Vaccinations are really important to ensure that your child gets the necessary preventive measures to protect them from various kinds of diseases and conditions. When a child’s immune system is developing, it is not in a position to protect the body from fatal viruses and diseases. This is one of the main reasons why vaccinations are very important. On the other hand, vaccinations can also cause a variety of discomforts for a child. Right from pain, to swelling to even redness or loose motions, a child can undergo a lot of vaccination pain after the vaccination has been taken.
Even though we know that it is best for our child, we still cannot see them in any pain or discomfort. During vaccinations, a child will have to undergo a series of injections and even drops. Due to the fact that their skin is delicate and soft; injections can be very discomforting for them. During the injection and even after that, they may undergo pain and may also have other effects. As a mother there are a few things that you can do to help ease the vaccination pain. Here are 10 such tips to combat vaccination pain:
Holding your baby
The baby feels very secured and comfortable when it is in the arms of the mother. This is why doctors recommend that the mother should hold the child while giving vaccination. The reason behind this is to help divert their mind while they are taking the shots and also to help the doctor if needed.
Adding some sugar
For babies who are less than 6 months, a little sugar can actually help to reduce the pain during vaccinations. You can mix some sugar with water and dip the pacifier in it. This can be given before the vaccination or even during the time they are taking it.
Feeding the child
Another way to reduce the pain that may be experienced after vaccination is by feeding your child. As per the studies shown, when a child is breastfed during the time they are taking the injection, children have not cried as much as a child that takes the injection the normal way.
Distracting your child
When a child is distracted, his or her mind is off the pain that might be felt when they are taking the vaccination. You can carry one of his or her favorite toy or books or even blow a few bubbles. Another thing that you can do is to carry a DVD, or upload a cartoon on your cell so that your child can be distracted from it.
Rubbing the skin
Since the baby’s skin is very sensitive, it will always be advisable to rub the skin gently as soon as the vaccination is done. This light massage can actually help reduce the pain that they may experience just by a 10-second gentle massage. You can also apply a certain amount pressure on the area where the injection will be given to help reduce the pain.
Application of creams that can numb the place
There are various creams that can be applied to numb the skin; this can also help to reduce the pain that the child may experience while they are taking the injections. This may also come in the form of a spray; you can ask the doctor well in advance so that you can apply the cream beforehand for it to take effect.
Find out the different alternatives
In some cases, the doctors have other alternatives to give the child the vaccinations. It could also be in the form of drops or even tablets or even in some cases, the vaccination can also be rubbed into the skin. You can always talk to your doctor to find out the various options that are open for your child.
Shots that can be combined
In order to reduce the amount of shots that are given to chid, there are various vaccinations that can be given at one time which caters to different diseases. This can be a 3 in 1 shot or a 2 in 1 shot. Some of the most common shots include the DTaP which is a shot that takes care of pertusias, tetanus, and diphtheria, or even the 2 in one shot for hepatitis B and polio.
Giving a small dose of Tylenol
Tylenol for children just before the injection may also help to reduce the pain that the child may experience after the taking the injections. It also helps in the reduction of fever which could be an after effect of the vaccination.
Apply an ice pack
We all know that when it comes to reliving pain, there is nothing better than using the ice pack. Soon after your child gets his or her shot, you can go ahead and use the ice pack to prevent inflation and selling as well as reduce the discomfort and pain that the child may experience after taking the injections.
When applying, ensure that it is patted gently on the skin. Once you see that your child is feeling good, then you can wrap the cube in a cloth and apply it on and off on the area for at least 2 to 3 times in a day for around 2 days or so.
We all know that the first two years are very crucial and the baby has to take the shots in order to protect him or her from the various diseases that can affect the health or can be fatal. Vaccinations help to boost the immune system.
The most important thing that you should keep in mind is that you as a mother have to be calm during the time the child has taken the vaccination. If there is fever or any other such symptoms, do not think much about it; but keep a watchful eye and monitor the condition very carefully. Also ensure that you keep a track of things by writing down as well as letting the doctor know.
