MD, DPPS
Maria Carmela Villania-Mamauag is a board certified diplomate of the Philippine Pediatric Society with a degree of Doctor of Medicine fromOur Lady of Fatima University, Valenzuela Cityand a Bachelor in Science in Psychology fromSaint Louis University, Baguio Citywhich was augmented by a year of Bachelor in Science in Family Life and Child development at theUniversity of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City.She has worked as a pediatrician in both public and private hospitals in Metro Manila for nine years. She is a mother of two boys, and a proud breastfeeding advocate. She is also working with a group of obstetricians and midwives who advocate water births and VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean) procedures.
Our Review ProcessMomJunction believes in providing the most accurate content to its readers. Hence we get our articles reviewed by highly skilled experts in the relevant fields. The articles are reviewed to ensure their authenticity, factual correctness, and relevance. The board members also add inputs drawn from their years of experience. Learn more about ourmedical review board.
Viral rash in children, also known as viral exanthem, occurs when the skin is inflamed due to a viral infection (1). The rash may be in one spot (localized) or on the entire body (widespread), appearing as bumps, reddish-pink blotches, pimples, or blisters. In rare cases, the rash may cause itching, stinging, or a burning sensation. Depending on the kind of viral infection that caused it, a viral rash may resolve on its own or require treatment. Usually, the rash takes a few days to around two weeks to resolve once the treatment is begun. Parents should consult a doctor if their children show symptoms of fever and cough along with the rash. Read this post to understand the different types of viral rash in children and their treatment and effective prevention. [mj-toc] Types Of Viral Rash In Children Viral rash in children can be of different types. The type depends on the virus responsible for the infection (2). Often,...
The brand Zoloft is the name of a generic drug, sertraline hydrochloride. The drug belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) family and is prescribed as an antidepressant (1). While administering Zoloft for kids with depressive symptoms, weighing its benefits against risks is important. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that transfers messages between nerve cells and induces wellbeing and stabilizes the mood. The drug increases the amount of serotonin in the brain. As a result, doctors prescribe Zoloft for treating severe depression, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), [simple_tooltip text="premenstrual dysphoric disorder" tooltip="A severe type of premenstrual syndrome due to an overreaction to hormonal changes leading to irritation and anxiety" ], and anxiety issues. Read on to know about the safety guidelines of Zoloft for children. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="//www.finesse-bg.com/cdn2/articles/panic-attacks-in-children_00383290/" title="13 Signs Of Panic Attacks In Children & Ways To Deal With It"] [mj-toc] Is Zoloft Safe For Kids? [caption id="attachment_887233" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] The US Food and...
A reflex is an involuntary or automatic action to a response. Primitive reflexes in babies originate from the central nervous system and indicate a healthy baby. Conversely, the absence of these fundamental reflexes may imply neurological conditions and hence is a cause for concern. There are various types of primitive reflexes. Read on to know more about them and reflex integration. We have also mentioned the conditions that may cause an absence of primitive reflexes and the reasons for their reappearance during toddlerhood. [mj-toc] Which Reflexes Are Present In A Newborn? The following reflexes are present in newborn babies (1). 1. Rooting reflex If the corner of the mouth is stroked or touched, the baby turns their head and opens their mouth to root or search for the source of the touch. This instinctive response is called the rooting reflex since the baby tries to root in the direction of touch. Rooting reflex helps babies reach the breast or bottle nipple...
许多父母寻找有趣的关于眼睛的事实for kids to educate their little ones about eyes and their functioning. The eyes are the second most complex organ after the brain, allowing vision. Human eyes can differentiate about 10 million colors, and vision is one of the five senses. Nearly 80% of information is learned through vision, hence often referred to as windows of our soul. Many children may ask questions such as “How do the eyes work?”, “Why do we cry?’, and “Why do we have two eyes?” Read on to know more eye facts for kids that can help you answer their questions. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="//www.finesse-bg.com/cdn2/articles/8-simple-eye-care-tips-kids_0015788/" title="10 Effective Eye Care Tips For Kids & Ways To Improve Vision"] [mj-toc] Parts Of Our Eyes Some of the following mentioned parts of your eyes are visible to us when we look in the mirror or into someone else’s eyes. However, there are other parts that cannot be seen but play important...
The curiosity of most children about what the human body is made of is off the charts. To help you quench their thirst for this topic, we bring you some interesting facts about the human body for kids in this post. Their eagerness and excitement to learn more are absolutely adorable and showcase their keen interest in the subject. The human body is composed of cells that shape into a complex structure. We have curated some more interesting and fun facts to learn about the human anatomy that will both engage and educate your child. Plunge into this post for some fascinating details about the human body and share them with your kid. [mj-toc] Human Body Parts For Kids The main structure of a human body The external part of a human body comprises the head, neck and trunk, forelimbs, and hind limbs. The head and neck house the controlling organ brain that extends throughout the body via the spinal...
Mono in kids is a common viral infection characterized by fatigue, sore throat, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. Mono or infectious mononucleosis is also known as glandular fever or kissing disease. The disease is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) of the herpes virus family. It is a highly transmissible infection that can spread through saliva and other bodily fluids. After a child\'s exposure to the disease, the virus stays in the dormant state forever in the blood (1). Read on to know more about mono in children, including its causes, symptoms, and treatments. [mj-toc] Causes Of Mono In Children While EBV is the most common cause of mono in children, mild mono-like symptoms can also be caused by cytomegalovirus (CMV) (2). EBV and CMV are extremely common, and most children get exposed to them at some point in their lives. While infected infants and young children develop mild or no symptoms, infected teens and young adults have a 50%...
When do you stop burping a baby? New parents may often wonder about it. Burping is a part of your baby\'s feeding regimen to assist your baby to release the excess gas from the tummy that they tend to ingest while feeding (1). It is believed to assist your child to avoid spitting up and relieving gastrointestinal discomfort, such as colic, caused by trapped gas. Read on to learn more about when to stop burping a baby, indications to watch for to make an informed decision, and other alternative ways of help. [mj-toc] When Can You Stop Burping The Baby? [caption id="attachment_883049" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] Most infants usually do not need burping by the age of four to six months (2).However, every baby is different, and so is the rate at which their gastrointestinal system matures. As a result, burping frequency may be more for some babies, while some may not require burping at all. Since there is variation in...
Strokes in teenagers are an uncommon health condition that has serious consequences. It is one of the top ten causes of death among adolescents (1). So what is this condition? A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted. The brain requires a constant supply of oxygen to function; this oxygen is delivered by blood. Therefore, when any factor alters the blood flow, there could be a decrease in oxygen supply to the brain, leading to the death of the brain cells. Brain stroke is a serious condition that requires prompt medical attention. Delayed diagnosis and management could have fatal results. Read on to know more about brain strokes in adolescents, their causes, risks, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, complications, and prevention. [mj-toc] Causes And Risk Factors For Stroke In Teenagers [caption id="attachment_891641" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] Any blockage or delay in the blood supply of the brain may result in a stroke. If the brain’s blood supply is...
The term 6-month-old sleep regression indicates a change in the sleeping pattern of babies of that age. However, this is nothing to worry about and a reason to celebrate since it is a milestone. It is natural for babies to change their sleeping schedules at six months. As a result, the sleeping pattern established during the first few months of their life gets disrupted. This disruption may result in daytime fussiness, disturbed sleep at night, shorter naps than usual, and refusal to nap. Read on to know more about sleep regression at this age, its reasons, and a few management tips. [mj-toc] How Long Does Six-Month Sleep Regression Last? [caption id="attachment_892573" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] The six-month sleep regression may last from two to six weeks, similar to sleep regressions at other stages of a baby’s life (1). However, each baby is different, and the duration of sleep regression could vary, and it may even last for a few days...
It is not uncommon to have children complain of frequent stomach aches, especially if they eat out often. Parents may consider over-the-counter medications, such as Pepto-Bismol for kids, in such cases. Pepto-Bismol (Bismuth Subsalicylate) is considered a safe and effective medication for gastrointestinal troubles such as acid reflux, diarrhea, and indigestion. But can kids take Pepto-Bismol? What should be the dosage of Pepto-Bismol for children? Read on to find out the mechanism of action, the recommended dosage, safety, side effects, and alternatives for Pepto-Bismol in children. [mj-toc] At What Age Can A Child Take Pepto-Bismol? [caption id="attachment_1091855" align="alignnone" width="720"] Shutterstock[/caption] Pepto-Bismol is used to treat several digestive problems such as diarrhea, indigestion, nausea, gas, burping, an upset stomach, heartburn, and the feeling of fullness. However, only children aged 12 years and above can take Pepto-Bismol. Do not administer it to younger children without a doctor’s consultation (1). Bismuth subsalicylate, the active ingredient in Pepto-Bismol, is a derivative of Aspirin (Acetylsalicylic...
Mongolian blue spots, also referred to as congenital dermal melanocytosis, slate gray nevus, dermal melanocytosis, or lumbosacral dermal melanocytosis, are a type of birthmarks having a flat, blue or blue-gray appearance. These spots appear at the base of the spine or in the areas of the upper back, buttocks, or shoulders. Some babies may have these spots from birth, while others may develop them a few weeks later. This post explains the various causes, signs and symptoms, diagnosis, treatment methods, and prognosis of Mongolian blue spots in babies. [mj-toc] What Causes Mongolian Blue Spots In Babies? [caption id="attachment_693510" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Mongolian blue spots or Mongolian spots appear due to the collection of melanocytes (pigment cells) in the skin’s deep layer. Entrapment of melanocytes in the dermis (deep layer of skin) usually occurs during embryonic development, and they fail to reach the epidermis (superficial layer of the skin). Melanocytes make skin pigment called melanin. Thus, the accumulation of these...
Coffee is a popular beverage across the world. While some older teens may consume it occasionally, can you consider coffee for babies? The principal substance of coffee is caffeine, which is known to be a [simple_tooltip text="stimulant" tooltip="A class of medications that expedite the transmission of information between the brain and the body." ], improving mental alertness. Although uncommon, some parents may consider the beverage for babies, while some may wonder what happens if the baby sips it accidentally. Read this post to know if coffee is suitable for infants and the potential effects of it in case a baby drinks it. [mj-toc] Can Babies And Toddlers Have Coffee? No, infants and toddlers must not consume coffee due to its caffeine content. The American Academy of Pediatrics states that children must not have caffeinated beverages up to five years of age (1). It is usually suggested not to offer coffee at least until the child is in their teens. Coffee...
After the birth of a baby, it is natural that you’d like to take them out and introduce the world to your newborn. But wait, when can you take a newborn outside? A newborn's first outing could be exciting yet daunting for a parent because of the dos and don’ts that tag along. You must do it at the right time, in the right way, and must take them to the right places. A pediatrician will allow parents to take their newborns outside if they are healthy and have no underlying illnesses. However, premature babies and those with compromised immune systems are advised to stay indoors until two months old due to potential health risks. Alternatively, taking a newborn outside has a few benefits, too. Spending some time in a pollution-free environment is good for you and the baby too. In this post, we help you weigh the risks and benefits of taking your baby outside so that their first...
Zyrtec for kids is available for oral intake as tablets, dissolving tablets, chewables tablets, and syrups. It is also available as grape- or bubble-gum-flavored chewables or syrup for convenience. Effects of Zyrtec in children may begin within an hour after intake and last for about a day (12-24 hours). Zyrtec, commonly known by the generic name cetirizine, is a non-drowsy [simple_tooltip text="antihistamine" tooltip="A family of medications frequently used to treat allergy symptoms" ] prescribed to reduce the effects of the chemical histamine in the body. [simple_tooltip text="Histamine" tooltip="A chemical produced by the immune system in response to allergic reactions" ] causes symptoms such as swelling, sneezing, runny nose, and watery and itchy eyes that are commonly seen in allergies and colds. It is also used for treating chronic urticaria (hives) in children. Read this post to know more about the dose, safety, side effects, warnings, and other common concerns about Zyrtec for children. [mj-toc] At What Age Can Cetirizine (Zyrtec)...
Hypothyroidism in babies or neonatal hypothyroidism is an endocrine disorder that occurs when the baby’s thyroid gland produces insufficient or no thyroid hormones (hormones that regulate the body’s metabolism). It is also called congenital hypothyroidism, as the baby may have an under-functioning thyroid gland at birth. All newborns are screened for congenital hypothyroidism before being discharged from the hospital, as prompt diagnosis and treatment can help achieve better outcomes. Read on to know more about the causes, signs, diagnosis, and treatment for congenital hypothyroidism. [mj-toc] Signs And Symptoms Of Congenital Hypothyroidism The signs and symptoms of congenital hypothyroidism may vary based on the severity of the disorder. Many newborns may not show any signs initially. The signs and symptoms may emerge a few days after birth, depending on the extent of problems with the thyroid gland (1). The common signs and symptoms of the disorder could include the following (2). Puffiness of the face [simple_tooltip text="Abdominal distention" tooltip="Abnormal swelling of...
It is important to understand a toddler\'s napping needs since the right amount of sleep helps them stay active throughout the day. So when do toddlers stop napping, and what signs indicate them? A toddler needs nearly 12 to 14 hours of sleep in a day. This is distributed among the uninterrupted night sleep plus a few naps in the mornings. A good amount of sleep helps them stay active and play during the day. Also, note that the requirement of a nap also depends on their surroundings (1). However, this need to nap during the daytime reduces as the toddler grows older (2). Instead, they tend to fulfill their sleep needs at night. So if you are a new parent, it is obvious that you would like to know the signs of this shift. Read on to know more about a toddler’s napping patterns and at what age kids stop napping. [mj-toc] When Do Toddlers Stop Napping? [caption id="attachment_889474"...
Most babies begin to stand independently and even walk with support at around 12 months. These developmental milestones are exciting for you and the baby, but these newly learned skills enable a toddler to climb out of the crib (1). A toddler climbing out of the crib or cradle is scary since it could cause adverse consequences. Hence preventing a toddler from falling is imperative to ensure your toddler stays safe until they are ready to switch to a toddler’s bed. Read on to know why a toddler tries climbing out of the crib and what you can do to prevent your toddler from falling and injuring themselves. [mj-toc] Why Do Toddlers Climb Out Of A Crib? According to the Nationwide Children’s Hospital, on average, 10,000 crib-related injuries occur every year among children aged two years and younger. Out of these, more than 66 percent of injuries occur due to a fall from the crib (2). So, why do toddlers...
A baby cooing is perhaps the most pleasant sound for a parent. While the tiny ones announce their entry into the world through crying, cooing is their first language and communication cue. It is one of the first crucial milestones they develop in their first year. No wonder it is no less than soothing music for parents. In this post, we help you explore more about baby cooing. We have also included information on its benefits, ways to encourage, and of course, when you can expect your baby to coo. [mj-toc] What Is Cooing? Cooing is the spontaneous behavior of an infant to communicate their needs and feelings. Cooing usually refers to the vowel sounds that babies produce. These sounds could include monosyllables, such as “ah,” “ooo,” or “eee,” and disyllables, such as "ah-ah," or "ooh-ooh.” When Do Babies Start Cooing? [caption id="attachment_886860" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Read on to understand exactly why and when do babies coo Generally, a...
Most newborn, infant, or baby behaviors are adorable and surprising to their parents, and they may love watching them doing it. However, some behaviors, such as baby headbanging, may raise concerns and worries in parents. Many babies and toddlers engage in headbanging as a self-comforting technique to reduce frustration, pain, or boredom (1). Although it can be alarming and indicate underlying problems in some cases, many babies do it as a way to self-soothe. Consider seeking a pediatrician’s opinion to identify the exact cause of headbanging in your baby. Read on to know more about the causes of baby headbanging behaviors, ways to respond to it, and when to see a doctor. [mj-toc] Signs Of Head Banging In Babies [caption id="attachment_888690" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] If your infant repeatedly bangs their head to a pillow, wall, or crib while rocking back or forth, it could be head banging. Babies usually do it around bedtime or naptime since the rocking motion...
一个早产儿的存活率和发展ay vary depending on how early they are born before the due date. Nearly 15 million babies are born prematurely, and in the US, one in every 10 babies are preemies (1) (2). Significant developments occur in the fetus during each week of pregnancy; hence, prematurely born babies may lack a few of these developments, even though they can survive outside the womb. However, babies born near the due date may have better growth and development. Read on to learn more about a preterm baby’s survival rates and risk factors. [mj-toc] Definition Of Premature Birth [caption id="attachment_893554" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] According to the World Health Organization, preterm or premature birth is defined as when babies are born alive before the completion of 37 weeks of pregnancy (1). Based on the gestational age or age of the pregnancy, preterm delivery or childbirth can be further divided into the following categories (1). Extremely preterm:...
龟头炎是指头或gl的炎症ans of the penis. Balanitis in children is mostly self-resolving within two to three days. The condition may occur at any age but is frequently seen in boys below the age of five years as they won\'t retract or clean under the foreskin of a penis. Conservative interventions may be helpful for managing balanitis in most children. However, recurrent balanitis may require surgical intervention, such as circumcision. This post tells you about the causes, symptoms, treatment, complications, and prevention methods for balanitis in children. [mj-toc] Causes Of Balanitis In Children Children are more likely to develop chemical balanitis, a mild redness due to irritation from soaps or other irritants. Approximately 5% of boys younger than five years may develop infectious balanitis. Balanitis may occur in children due to the following reasons (1). Pulling or touching the foreskin frequently Bacterial infections Fungal (yeast) infections Poor hygiene, resulting in the build-up of smegma (secretion...
The little sleep you get is a luxury after attending to the baby\'s needs most of the day and night. But sometimes, the baby may wake up soon, costing you this rest time. This may often leave you wondering, “Why does my baby wake up too early?” In that case, this is the post you need. Scroll down as we have listed the reasons and a few solutions to tackle this problem. However, before jumping to the solutions, it is important to understand if the baby is waking up early. [mj-toc]How To Determine If Your Baby Is Waking Up Early? Some babies are early risers, while others wake up between 7 and 8 AM. So, it is important to understand whether your baby is waking up too early or during their normal wake-up time. Babies’ sleep needs change as they grow; for example, infants of six months of age need 13–14 hours of sleep (1). So, let’s assume you put...
Calcium is an essential mineral for all ages. The benefits of calcium for kids include the development of strong bones and teeth. This mineral is available in several food sources, such as fortified cereals, dairy products, and certain vegetables. If children do not get sufficient calcium for a long period, they may develop calcium deficiency, leading to issues such as nutritional rickets. These children may require calcium supplementation to optimize the calcium levels in their bodies. Read this post to understand why your child needs calcium, how much their daily requirement is, the best food sources for calcium, and when calcium supplementation should be considered. [mj-toc]Why Do Children Need Calcium? About 99 percent of the calcium in the body is stored in bones and teeth, and the remaining is found in the nerve cells, body tissues, blood, and other body fluids (1). Besides maintaining the health of bones and teeth, calcium helps with (2). Contraction and relaxation of muscles Widening...
