[CocoBird]

Hi, my baby is four months old now, and I am wondering what natural pain remedies I can use for her. She got her 4 month vaccinations (I am on the fence about vaccines but my wife made it clear she thinks it is very important so we are going ahead and doing vaccines). This time, she had a reaction. She has had a fever and her vaccination sites are bright pink and swollen and clearly painful. I know some remedies for fever (lemon water, garlic in socks, tepid bath...) wouldn't mind more suggestions on that, but what I really need are remedies for the pain she is experiencing. The bath helped a little, but only temporarily. Cold washcloths on her sores seemed to irritate her. Are there herbs I can give her or use in a bath or compress? Please help! Breastfeeding seems to be the only thing that has helped but sometimes she is full and doesn't want to nurse anymore but is still in pain.

 

[sciencemum]

It'll pass quickly, and your probably more bothered than she is. At 4 months breast feeding, in my opinion, is the best solution for anything. And in my opinion you've done just the right thing going with vaccinations. <img alt="smile.gif" class="bbcode_smiley" src="http://files.mothering.com/images/smilies/smile.gif">

 

[JohannaInDairyland]

<p>I know it's not "natural," but check with your care provider about acetaminophen or ibuprofen (sorry, I can't remember age restrictions on those two!). Both provide pain relief, and ibuprofen is anti-inflammatory. And breastfeeding really IS one the best things - provides extra immune boost, comfort, releases pain-relieving neurochemicals, and has been shown to increase the protection provided by vaccines and reduce side effects! You're doing a great job, mama.</p>

 

[CocoBird]

Thanks. I am avoiding acetaminophen for a few reasons. Our western doc suggested it, but our midwife cautioned against it. I know many people have used it, but I feel wary of pharmaceuticals and better safe than sorry. It has caused liver failure, has been recalled numerous times, they had to take it off the shelves and change it and the dosages last year, and there is a study looking at the correlation between taking acetaminophen with vaccines and autism. Also, when I was looking up info about acetaminophen, I read in all CAPS several times not to give ibuprofen to babies under 6 months. That's why I was asking about more ideas. She does seem to be feeling better today. Yesterday was rough!