Introducing Mom Rx, your No BS bi-monthly health column—brought to you in partnership with Sollis Health. Because moms need answers, not anxiety. In every edition, we’ll tap top medical experts to break down what you really need to know, and nothing you don’t (because your time is precious). First up, Dr. Tiffany Fischman, Sollis Health Concierge Pediatrician, tackling your burning questions about caring for both yourself and your baby.

I have heard you want to space out baby vaccines. Is that true? Why? 

No, this is a common misconception. The CDC, AAP, and board-certified pediatricians like myself strongly recommend following the standard vaccination schedule. It has been extensively studied and proven to be both safe and effective.

Delaying vaccines increases the time your child is unprotected from serious, preventable diseases. Research also shows that receiving multiple vaccines at once is no more stressful for a baby than getting them one at a time.

On a practical level, spacing out vaccines means more doctor visits, which can be stressful for both you and your baby. Pediatricians recommend the routine schedule because it’s what’s safest and best for your child’s health. 

I am terrified of allergies, especially when it comes to food. What should I look out for?  

Food allergies are on the rise, so it makes sense to be concerned. But good news—while food allergies are concerning, a first-time reaction is often not as severe as people might fear. It might just cause a rash, which can make it tricky to figure out. 

If your child develops hives—raised, red welts—1-2 hours after eating something (whether it’s a new food or not), that could be a sign of an allergy. You can usually treat these isolated hives with an antihistamine like Zyrtec or Benadryl, but it’s always a good idea to contact your pediatrician to make sure you’re handling it properly. 

If the hives are accompanied by vomiting, trouble breathing, or swelling of the lips/tongue (symptoms of anaphylaxis, which is a severe, life-threatening reaction), call 911 or go to the ER immediately. 

The most common food allergens are dairy (cow’s milk), eggs, peanuts, soy, wheat, tree nuts, shellfish, fish, and sesame. Other foods can cause allergies, but it’s much less common. If you’re worried about food allergies, at Sollis Health we offer a family membership (Sollis Family) that offers complimentary food and seasonal allergy testing to help you get the answers you need. 

I just got over the flu and was so fearful I was going to give it to my 11-week old since I am still breastfeeding. Is it safe to continue breastfeeding? 

Yes, it is safe to continue breastfeeding! In fact, breastfeeding is protective for your baby, even when you’re sick with the flu or other illnesses. Your breast milk is is packed with essentials nutrients and contains antibodies that help protect your baby from getting sick. 

Pregnant, stuffed up and not sleeping. What’s the lesser evil, no sleep or meds to help sleep?  

It really depends. Many over-the-counter medications are safe during pregnancy and can help with congestion, allowing you to get the rest you need, which is so important. However, some medications are not safe, so it’s always a good idea to check with your OB or a pharmacist if you’re unsure about what you can take. 

If you’d prefer to avoid meds, you can try more natural remedies, like saline nasal rinses, steamy showers, and using a humidifier—techniques we also recommend for young children to help ease congestion. 

My son hasn’t pooped in 4 days (he’s only 7 weeks old). Should I be worried? Should I give him anything? 

Probably not! If your baby is breastfed, it’s actually quite normal for them to go several days without pooping—although it might feel unusual. I’ve seen breastfed babies go a whole week without pooping, including one of my own! 

As long as your baby is feeding well, not vomiting more than the usual spit-up, and seems comfortable, there’s no need to worry and nothing special needs to be given. Just be prepared for a big blow-out when he does go! 

His stools should remain soft and liquidy, even if he’s going several days between poops. However, if his stools are consistently hard, small, and more formed, that could be a sign of constipation, and it’s a good idea to talk to your pediatrician. 

My baby is always congested, especially at night. What are some safe remedies I can try for relief? 

Nasal congestion is pretty common in babies since they breathe through their noses and their nasal passages are so small. Even a little dust or irritant can cause congestion. It could also be an early sign of a respiratory illness. 

A couple of safe remedies to try are saline drops and nasal suction. Using saline drops in each nostril first helps loosen any dried mucus, making it easier to remove with a suction device. There are lots of options available for suction devices, so you can choose one that works best for you. 

Running a cool mist humidifier in the room or giving your baby a steamy bath or shower can also help relieve congestion and make it easier for them to breathe. 

I’ve heard conflicting advice about introducing solids—what’s the safest way to start feeding my baby solids, and when is the right time?  

The ideal time to start solids is around 6 months, but in some cultures, babies are introduced to solids between 4 and 6 months. Most babies will be ready closer to 6 months, and pediatricians look for signs like good head control, interest in food, a reduced tongue thrust reflex, and being able to sit with support as key indicators that they’re ready. 

There is also research suggesting that introducing allergenic foods (like peanuts) earlier—around 4 months—can help reduce the risk of food allergies, which can make things confusing for parents. 

Bottom line: Your baby doesn’t need solids before 6 months, and even at 6 months, most of their nutrition should still come from breast milk or formula. If you want to start earlier, check with your pediatrician to make sure your baby is ready. There’s no one “right” way to introduce solids; most parents use a mix of purees and baby-led weaning. You don’t have to follow any specific order of foods or introduce one new food every few days like we used to advise. 

Also, I strongly encourage parents to take an infant/child CPR and first aid class to feel prepared in case of any emergencies. 

My baby has been spitting up a lot after feeding. Should I be concerned about reflux or is this normal? 

Spitting up is really common, and some level of reflux is normal—most babies experience it. However, if your baby is very fussy after feeding, seems uncomfortable, isn’t gaining weight, or if the spit-up is excessive or projectile (like vomiting across the room), it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor. 

To help manage spitting up, try pacing your baby during feeds. Take breaks to burp them after every ounce of milk or between switching breasts if you’re nursing. Keeping your baby upright for 15-20 minutes after feeding can also help. 

I’m five months postpartum and I think I’m struggling with postpartum anxiety or depression. What can I do? 

First and foremost, please talk to your doctor! Postpartum anxiety and depression are very common, but they can be serious and affect both you and your baby. Reach out to your OB, PCP, pediatrician, or a therapist as soon as you can. You’re not alone, and support is available. Taking the step to ask for help is a brave and important part of your journey to healing. 

I’m four months postpartum and still feel like I’m struggling with my body’s recovery. What should I be focusing on at this stage to heal physically and emotionally? 

It’s tough, and you’re not alone in feeling this way. At this stage, focusing on the basics—rest, hydration, and good nutrition—are key. These are your body’s fuel for recovery. However, many women face additional challenges, especially when they’ve returned to work by 4 months, which can complicate the healing process. 

Please be gentle with yourself. Healing can take 6-8 months, even in ideal circumstances, and every journey is unique. Give yourself the grace to acknowledge that it’s okay not to have it all figured out yet. Accept help from trusted friends or family, and seek support from other parents who are going through similar experiences. 

I am eight months postpartum and I pee when I jump. Is this normal? 

Stress incontinence is very common after childbirth, especially following a vaginal delivery. The great thing is that there are several non-invasive treatments available that can help improve or even eliminate the symptoms. Some options include pelvic floor exercises (like Kegels), bladder training, pelvic floor therapy, nerve modulation, electrical stimulation to strengthen pelvic muscles, and a pessary. If these approaches don’t provide relief, surgery may be considered in more severe cases. If you’re unsure where to start, it’s a good idea to consult with your gynecologist to find the best solution for you. 

Sollis Health is the first and only concierge urgent and emergency care provider. They offer unlimited access to world-class ER-trained physicians and leading specialists, plus onsite advanced imaging and diagnostic capability (on par with a hospital ER). HATCH customers can use code “Hatch” at Sollis Health for $1,000 off Sollis Family.

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