If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, caring for a newborn can be challenging. Caring for a newborn involves extra movement and extra weight which can cause your arthritis symptoms to flare. However, there are some ways to mitigate your arthritis while you are caring for your newborn. Below are some tips that you should consider. 

Continue With Proper Treatment 

It is important to discuss your current symptoms and care with your doctor to create a treatment plan. Some women find that their arthritis symptoms are better during pregnancy and then flare up again once their baby is born, you may need to adjust your arthritis treatment to compensate for your different symptoms. It is important to remember that certain arthritis medications, such as methotrexate or biologics may pass into your milk if you are breastfeeding. You may need to try alternative medications or to feed your baby formula or banked breast milk in order to keep your arthritis manageable. 

For the first few months after your baby is born, you should communicate with your doctor often to monitor your treatment and symptoms and make adjustments as soon as necessary. 

Consider Props to Help You Hold and Carry Your Baby 

Holding and carrying your baby can put strain on your joints, causing a flare in your arthritis. You may want to try various props to help you care for your baby. For example, you may want to have pillows to hold your baby during feeding times and either a stretchy wrap or a soft sided carrier to assist in carrying your baby. As your baby grows, you may need to adjust the type of carrier to help keep the weight of the baby away from problem areas, such as your neck and upper back. Finding a baby-wearing group in your area can give you access to several different types of carriers and props to try as well as women who may have similar challenges. 

Additionally, having a changing station in multiple rooms can limit the amount that you have to carry your baby within your home. 

Reduce the Amount of Baggage You Carry 

It is important that you reduce the amount of baggage you carry with you when you are out with your baby. Consider purchasing sample sizes of creams and wipes to take with you when you are out. Alternatively, purchase small bottles to fill yourself. 

Caring for your baby can be challenging when you have arthritis. However, working closely with your doctor can help you control your symptoms and making lifestyle adjustments can allow you to comfortably give proper care to your child at home.