Anyone Feel This Way After 7 1/2 Months...?

S.,

Sorry to hear...I'm not a doctor but I write about health and am interested that you mentioned this seemed like it was after his shots...I would suggest maybe easing up on the vax, spacing them out more, DON'T use Tylenol...maybe even eliminating the ones you can like the chickenpox, flu. Good luck and my thoughts are with you.

S. - I'm not a single mom, but I remember these changes in both of my sons, which I finally linked to teething. He must be teething - is he better at all if you happened to give him Tylenol? It is normal for any parent yo feel frustrated and tired like you. It will pass - maybe not right away - but it will!

Different parents love different stages of childhood. Some can't wait till they have someone they can throw a ball around with. And there are some stages that are definitely more challenging than others. They do grow out of those eventually. Take pictures. Try to keep your sense of humor. Be silly with him sometimes. Read up on developmental stages ("What to Expect the First Year" and "What to Expect the Toddler Years are WONDERFUL Books!). When they are hardest to love is when they need loving the most. Be sure to hire a sitter every now and then and give yourself a sanity break. You'll have a fresher outlook, and will be able to weather the rougher times. The baby blues can hit you even now, so talk about it with your Dr, too. Baby might be teething now. That can be awfully painful and make for a cranky baby. Poor itchy gums are so irritating when teeth are pushing through. You'll get through this! Hang in there!

Hang in there, we all hit rough spots where we don't have an easy answer on how to help or deal with our kids.
It sounds like you might be suspicious of the vaccinations your son received. While I don't discount that thought (I think some kids are that sensitive to the vaccinations and the additives in them) there are a few other things that might be contributors.
Teething? Where is he in the teething process? That can make everyone crazy for a few months. Cranky, needy, whiny all the time. Beyond tylenol, Hylands (a homeopathic company) puts out teething tablets that can take the edge off when you use them frequently throughout the day. You could see a homeopath for a specific remedy to your son's needs too.
Solid foods? Did you start foods around 6 months? Could there be a sensitivity to what you are feeding him? Rice cereals can be binding for some kids and some can be sensitive to formulas if you are using it as a mixer.
An osteopathic evaluation (from someone who does manipulative medicine) might help him to tone down how raw he is as might a consult with a homeopathic doctor. Both of these are covered by many insurances (more often the osteopathic visit though) They might also help you to sort out what is happening (vaccine related or not) and what can be done.
Lastly, is there anyone who can spell you for one chunk of time a week (evening, weekend morning...)where you can get some respite time? Recharging and relaxing might help you stay sane and keep perspective.

Soraya, I'm on my 2nd, and I have also gone through these "changes" of things not being as predictable or "easy" as they were before. I've learned that kids (no matter how young) constantly change - and as I finally got into a routine that worked, it suddenly wouldn't work. I was stressed out and worried about that constantly with my first - I've found that now I accept it, and it's much easier to cope with this time because I'm not trying to make my child or "wish" my child would "go back to normal routines", etc. I was also irritable, short tempered, etc - but this time around, I seem to just flow with it, like it's a hiccup in the road. I think what you're feeling is normal, and it's always good to talk about it with other moms - and socialize with other mom's so you can hear their problems or new issues so you don't feel alone. You're right about the separation anxiety thing - that happens...and crying more now just says that he is aware of the reasons he can cry.... and he knows that crying is his only form of communication. That helps me when I remember that it's the baby's only way to communicate displeasure, or concern, worry, anxiety, frustration, anger, hunger, being soiled, or tired.... so he's going to be crying more because he is older and is aware of more of those feelings. Try to take it as good news about his cognitive awareness. As far as the naps - I'm right there with you. I just always start with the stuff I know I can't do easily with the baby awake, such as laundry, washing dishes, preparing a meal (cutting, etc.) and if I get 1/2 done, so be it. I know it's hard - but it does get better - and keep talking about it with friends, us on Mamasource, family - whoever is a support system in your life!

Don't get him any more vaccinations... it is obvious that it had a negative effect on him. If he gets more he could get alot worse. There shouldn't be such a drastic change in behavior at 71/2 months... I have 2 boys... never happened... also they never had any vaccinations.

Everytime your child starts up a new phase, its hard to deal with the change. My son is now 2 1/2 now so we are going through the terrible 2's right now and it's hard to deal with at times. I too have my ups and downs with my emotions at just about every stage he's gone through and I too question my ability to be a mother, but I figured I have gotten through all of the downs so far and the ups have far outweighed the downs. I think you have to look at parenthood as an emotional rollercoaster, some points its exciting and amazing, other times you are scared out of your mind! If you feel like you need a break at times, put him in his crib and just go in the other room to pull it together. It's hard I know. But at least at this point he can't chase you around like my 2 year old does now. Ha ha. You'll always doubt yourself and beat yourself up, we all do it. It's our human motherly nature. Just stay strong, when you feel like you are getting frustrated, just look at that beautiful face that you created. Your little miracle. That has helped me get through the hard times. Good luck.

Unfortunately in my opinion, your son is reacting to his 6 month shots.
I would think long and hard before you decide to "immunize" him again. Did you know our children are scheduled to receive 65 immunization shots by the time they are 18? These chemicals wreak havoc on their their tiny bodies and blood streams.
Do lots and lots of research on this topic before going back to your doctor.

if there's one thing I learned from having kids, is that everything is a stage. things change, schedules change,tempers change, it's all in stages. it will pass and then the next stage will be something else. it could take weeks or months, but at some point, somthing else will take it's place.. hang in there and try to get some help - hire a sitter so you can refresh!

I can totally understand how you feel. I am a single mother of 4. 13, 10, 8 and my youngest is now 8 1/2 months. I think as a mother in general there will be those times where you do feel as though the timing is never right. As you said, what works right now won't work in an hour. My son is going through the cat nap stage as well. He is very mild mannered and this has remained the same from birth until now. The same could not be said for my 2nd child though.
I feel it's only normal that we go through these 'emotional rollercoasters' right along with our children as they get older. This doesn't take anything away from you as a mom. You love your son and would do anything for him even though you may feel frustrated at times.
Don't worry, it will pass and there will be other times in his life when you begin to feel frustrated with him. The one down side to being a parent is that there is no instruction manual as to how you should go about things,feeling and what types of things to expect from your child, be it at 7 months or 17 years of age. You pretty mcuh roll with the waves, and keep in mind, that like everything else this phase will pass.

ohhhhhh i feeeeel for you!
i know just what you mean, and your baby will come out of it for a bit a be as sweet as pie, then it will begin again with the tantrums and blood curdling crys that make you think "im having thoughts right now that a 'good' mom doesnt have"

it will pass, and come back, and pass again.

his ups and downs are part of his growth as a child into this world and your ups and downs in response to this child are a very important part of YOUR OWN GROWTH as a new mother.
its an extremely important thing that you are going through with your kid, it will shape both of you for the better. being a first time mom myself, and knowing what i know now about the trials of infancy, i still would not have it any other way. I SURVIVED THAT! it even impresses ME! it was torture. TORTURE, what a tiny, needy, moody baby can do to break down a grown woman and make her question her own abilities.
i personally think that its necessary for you to be changed by this experience, even if you liked yourself better before and cant stand yourself now.
the way your are now is not the change itself. you wont see the change until your child is muuuuch more independent, like mine, shes three now. when you have gone that far and accomplished that much parenting, and normal daily life returns the peace returns...then you will see the change in yourself and its sooooooooo COOOOL!

I can't believe all of the moms who attribute this behavior to the vaccinations. There are for the most part an extremly low percentage of children that have life long affects from vaccinations. The benefits and protection from vaccinations far outweigh the negatives. I have a friend that chooses not to vaccinate her son. He has been kicked out of school for 21 days because another student has the chicken pox in his class. After reasearching on my own for the most part the chicken pox is not life threatning, but it can be. why would hese parents take the risk. I could go on and on. This is an opinion from these mothers that are telling you not to vaccinate your son. I persoanlly think that your child just may not be as easy as he was as an infant. Children go through all different stages or he may be teething. Motherhood is not always easy, but it is the most rewarding job. Remember to take time for yourself if you can. As my children got older things got more difficult in some ways and easier in other ways. Take one day at a time and be patient. If I can give you any advice it will be relax, try not to sweat the small things and TRY to enjoy every moment. This time goes by too quickly and when they get to be school age you feel like WOW that went by soooo fast.

Hang in there, I have two kids (a 4 1/2 and 2 1/2 year old) and one thing I've learned is that as soon as you get something down (a predictable routine) it changes! Babies are changing constantly and have periods where they are easy, and also very demanding. Do not blame yourself!! Separation anxiety is normal! Your son is getting bigger, more aware, mobile and exploring. He is able now to express more his likes (and dislikes!)
Still do your methods to soothe, and try new ones. Distracting is a BIG response to these behaviors - try to get his attention elsewhere - a new, different toy, singing, music if he's having a fit. (Just some suggestions!)
My older daughter was easy, great, good sleeper, etc. My son is very demanding, terrible sleeper, and very tough compared to her.
Things will be changing constantly and you seem like you are doing all you can - hang in there!

I read the responses and I felt like people were blaming the immunizations (or you for giving him the immunizations) for the behavioral changes. Perhaps it's the case. But I think a far more likely (and scientifically supported) cause is just that he is changing and developing, can stay awake longer but can't entertain himself, is cooped up inside more because of winter, or a whole host of other things. I bet that your reaction to the crankiness was also triggered by a lot of environmental stuff too (the shorter days, the stress of the holidays, etc). All of that is totally normal. And if you are concerned about vaccinations then by all means you should speak with your pediatrician and insist that s/he talk to you until you are comfortable. I want you to know that both of my kids have been vaccinated and yes, sometimes drive me to the edge, but no, I don't think that its the vaccinations that cause that reaction.

Now, to more address how you're feeling, I am sure that you are doing an awesome job. I often say to my husband that I don't know how single moms do it, and here you are doing it! Your son is going through a phase, and phases pass, and you will emerge from it an even better mom than you are now. I don't know any mother who hasn't ever said "I don't think that I can do this." And sometimes you're going to yell or leave him in his crib or some other not A+ parenting, but you're still going to love him from top to bottom, and he's still going to know it, and that's really all that matters. Good luck! If you can, get some help and go away for a few hours (not to work). I always feel like a better mom when I miss my kids for a little bit.

HI,
I believe all women feel this way at one point or another in parenthood. Just keep in mind that he knows when you are stressed or upset. he can sense it when you hold him. many things may be going on as stated in otherosts like teething. babbies change their routine constnatly and it is mind boggling for moms. if you need a 5 minute mommy time out take it. put him in a safe place and walk out of the room. if he cries it won't hurt him. if you tend to his every whimper and cry unless he his hurt, he will not learn to soothe himself. It is imperative that you make time for yourself. do not feel guilty. you are a great mom and are going through a rough patch so hang in there, it gets better and worse then better etc... have a nice hot bathe with some lavender in it. take care

Welcome to motherhood my friend. Everyday will bring you new challenges and joys, somedays more of either. Nothing about motherhood is predictable:)

Don't be too hard on yourself, motherhood is difficult especially doing it on your own. Make some time for yourself to recharge your batteries. Hire a babysitter, ask for help from friends and family we all need this to feel better.

I am a mother to 4 children. All of them range in ages. I have a daughter in college (19), 2 teenage sons, and a 2 year old daughter. I have learned that no child is predictable- ever. Just when you think you have them figured out, they throw some new moves at you and you wonder if you'll ever get through it. You will. It's not easy. One would think that I would be an "old pro" at motherhood by now, but my daughter still keeps me up at night and she won't potty train for the life of her. I feel like a first time mom all over again. It always feels like a first time mom because you are a first time mom to that particular child.

Perhaps your son is sensing your own insecurity. It's normal. There were many times where I have just cried right along with my baby. I've tried reasoning with them (how rational is it to reason with and infant?) and even bribing them. It's tough! But you will get through it. Just one day at a time. You are a great mom because you care enough to be reflective. That makes you a great mom.

We are moms. We never know the right thing to do, we just do what we can. We just love our kids and do our best and hope that they will turn out okay. Your son loves you. He's adjusting to the world. He's learning and growing and changing. And that can be super hard! You are learning and growing and changing too. You two have something in common. But you also have each other.

And by the way, it's okay to let him cry for 10 minutes so you can take a shower or breathe or do the dishes...it's okay.

It sounds like you need some help. Any mom groups near you? He sounds like he might be teething? Have you tried pediaprofen for him? If he is happier, pain was the culprit...worth a try, right age. good luck.

Soraya,
Welcome to motherhood! It's never predictable and always challenging yet rewarding. It's a tough job, especially when single. First, know that you are not alone in experiencing these feelings. This is normal. Simply acknowledge them as OK, neither right nor wrong. Then pat yourself on the back for having the courage to express them out loud and the sensibility to ask for feedback or help.
As your child goes through normal developmental changes he will react to them differently, sometimes needing more comfort than usual. Also try to remember that crying is the predominant way your child has to communicate. Once you have eliminated all the typical possibilities of pain, hunger, and being wet try tuning in at a deeper level. It may be frustrating to try to decipher what he is attempting to tell you but take a deep breath, relax, observe and listen. Put yourself in his shoes, what is going on, what is different, what is the same? Being a parent is often like being a detective, even when your child becomes verbal the guessing game can continue. When we really take the time to stop, calm down and tune-in, we are more open to receiving the important infromation they are trying to communicate. It is easy to tune-in to our children when things are going well but it takes practice to learn how to tune-in when things are not.
C.

It is normal at that age. They are old enough to want to go off and do things but not old enough to actually do them. Tough age, they are clingy too at that age, you will get through it be strong.

M.- SAHM and WAHM and love it! I have three!

http://www.WorkingGreenMoms.com

You are a great mom...I can tell by the fact that you even wrote this post. I've been where you are and I can honestly tell you that I don't have easy advice or witty anecdotes. All I can say is that it will get better. He's still a baby and he has no other way to communicate with you. I never thought I would make it through the 1st year and now that my son will be 2 and 1/2 soon...I look back on it all in wonder, amazement and LAUGHTER! Please hold tight and be patient with your little one. They can sense anxiety and frustration. This too shall pass. BTW...I'm a single mom too so I'm not just talking out the side of my mouth. You can do it! *_*

While I am sorry I can't relate to how you feel (I am not a single mom), I think the key phrase in everything you said is "after his 6 month immunizations". I know many many babies who have never been the same after immunizations and there is a reason for that. Any amount of mercury or toxic substances injected into a baby who is still developing can have an effect on the brain.
I wish there was something better or more helpful I could say, but I hope you educate yourself about what is being put in your baby and make wise decisions in the future. Trust your motherly instincts.
At the same time, I can say that on some days (not always) my 11 month old (not immunized) doesn't nap well and is cranky. That's what babies do sometimes and that is life. Babies change and grow everyday, that doesn't mean you can't be a good mother. On the days that my daughter gets the best of me I just remind myself that she will grow up and meanwhile I can just try to be the best I can. All the best to you and your son!