New survey reveals insights into unique relationship between mothers and ped...( who interview pediatricians were more ...)

Jennifer Trachtenberg, M.D., pediatrician said, "Beyond a child's own parents, the pediatrician is one of the first people with whom a baby will come into contact. This physician will see your child through many social, emotional and physical developments as he or she grows into young adulthood. When selecting your pediatrician, ensure that the doctor is up-to-date on the latest medical advances and supportive of your health choices. Also, when interviewing pediatrician candidates, be sure to ask about important topics like immunizations."

Hot Topics Discussed During Well-Baby Visit

In the first two years of a baby's life, nearly every well visit includes (a) vaccination(s). According to the survey, immunization is the number-one topic discussed during well-baby visits (93 percent). Children today may receive as many as 23 shots in the first two years of life, with as many as six per visit. While an overwhelming majority of moms chose to vaccinate their babies (98 percent), 59 percent of moms felt anxious about the number of shots. The survey also showed that most moms claim that the shots hurt them more than their child (75 percent) and nearly half (49 percent) feel guilty about the number of shots their baby receives. Nearly three-quarters of moms (71 percent) would like to reduce the number of shots children receive, however, 79 percent of moms (surveyed) have not had discussions with their pediatrician about options to reduce the number of shots.

Dr. Trachtenberg noted, "With immunization being such a large part of the well-baby visit, it's surprising that more moms and pediatricians aren't discussing combination vaccines. Moms need to be aware that there are choices available. In fact, we now have combination vaccines that significantly lower the number of shots children are getting without compro
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4-Aug-2004