do newborns need water too?

[alexlee34]

Like other than breast milk do they need a bottle of water too?

[windyMae]

You shouldn't give your baby water because babies kidneys aren't yet mature, giving them water causes their kidneys to release sodium and excess water. Loss of sodium can affect brain activity. Syptoms of water intoxication can cause irritability, drowsiness and other mental changes. Other symptoms can include lower body temp.. and seizures.. Essentially giving and infant/small baby water can dehydrate them..

[sorenr]

Yup, that and (when they're bigger) there's a smell on their breath, I used to notice it when they had a cold or the likes...its a kinda sweet smell...its hard to describe but you'd notice it, it doesnt smell like any food or anything, glad to be of help :)

[KTowne]

sorenr I've never heard of that!! The soft spot being dipped means dehydration, good to know!

[sorenr]

Generally as a rule they shouldnt need it but as suggested above, if they are constipated, a little water can help. I have only ever used it then or if the fontanelle (soft spot on the top of the head) is dipped, indicating dehydration. I'm not so sure about bf babies getting dehydrated, but it does very ocassionally happen to bottle fed ones. Mine have usually been fine after a normal feed though, I've rarely had to give water except to my first who suffered badly from constipation.

[alyringy]

Ask a doctor. Sometimes water can cause seizures with newborns

[chandiemomof3]

Our bodies are miraculously designed to give our baby everything they need for the first 6 months of life! All your baby needs is your breastmilk, one of the most precious gifts you can give your child.

[KTowne]

You're not supposed to give any babies under the age of 6 months water, at all, unless suggested by a doctor, because it can cause water intoxication, which can kill an infant. Every baby is different on how much water they can tolerate, so you don't want to test it with your newborn, ask your doctor about it before you do it! I know sometimes they'll suggest it for constipation, but it's like 1 oz, once in a while.

[1sttimemummy_boy]

I no drinking warm water is good for them if they get constipation.

[MissJLJ]

My mom said she use to give me water. But its true, doctors don't recommend  it. Honestly, all your baby needs is your milk or formula. If you want to try water, talk to your doctor and see what they have to say about it. Then make your decision.

[Averysm0mmy]

one thing my mama taught me...dont always listen to doctors because theyve got so many new "rules" and "dos and donts" now a days that they never used to have and people have been raising kids forever...shes never steered me wrong :)...just dont give your baby lots of water because it will cause them to fill up and not drink their formula or milk which is essential to them. water always worked for my son if he became constipated or irritably gassy.

[Shirano]

I was told not to give them water but I would ask your doctor

[Averysm0mmy]

i gave my son a nice warm bottle of water every now and then when he was an infant...never hurt him :) and he doesnt fight me now when I try to give him water instead of juice sometimes!