Drug allergies can be a confusing area for parents because an adverse reaction to a medication does not necessarily mean that the child is allergic to that medicine. In fact most drug-related symptoms will not be caused by an allergic reaction.

Yes, you need to brush your baby’s teeth with toothpaste that has fluoride in it. Fluoride works by attaching itself to the tooth surface and then becoming a part of the enamel. This outer fluoride-rich layer of enamel is much stronger than regular enamel and helps prevent cavities.

Even experienced parents might have an “Is this normal?” adjustment period to their new baby, and question whether something needs their doctor's attention or will clear up in a day or so. If you see any of the following, give your doctor a call:

Around 60 per cent of full-term babies (born after 38 weeks of pregnancy) exhibit signs of jaundice. Jaundice can be more likely in premature or sick babies. Jaundice comes from high levels of a chemical called bilirubin in your baby’s body.

Botulism is a rare but serious illness. A bacterium called Clostridium botulinum - which naturally occurs in soil - creates the toxin that causes botulism. There are several kinds of botulism: