Motherhood comes at you fast with all its diaper-changing, feeding schedules, and sleep deprivation. You’re also trying to answer the constant stream of internal questions about whether you’re doing it all right. In the middle of this (beautiful) chaos, it’s easy to overlook certain essential tasks that can quietly impact your baby’s health in big ways.
Many times, it isn’t even your fault. Parents.com highlights that around 80% of new mothers report experiencing memory lapses or cognitive fog during and after pregnancy. They also note that this fog is potentially caused by a combination of hormonal changes, sleep deprivation, and anxiety.
Thus, it’s understandable to make mistakes in the initial days, but as you’ll agree, the fewer mistakes you make, the better. In this article, let’s find out what these three must-remember items are.
#1. Vaccine Scheduling
Between midnight feedings and the fifth diaper change of the day, it’s understandable that a well-child visit might accidentally get pushed back or forgotten. But keeping up with your baby's vaccination schedule is one of the most important things you can do for their long-term health. There are dangerous implications when you fail to do this.
As of April 2025, the U.S. has reported over 700 measles cases, a significant increase from 285 cases in the previous year. Sadly, this surge has resulted in two child deaths. Similarly, whooping cough (pertussis) cases have more than doubled compared to the previous year, with multiple child fatalities reported in states like Louisiana.
This is why the CDC recommends a strict immunization timeline that begins right at birth and continues through the toddler years. Many pediatricians even provide a printed schedule during the first few visits, but digital reminders can be a lifesaver.
Among all the random bits of baby advice you’ll receive, vaccine scheduling is the one thing that’s backed by decades of science research. So, don’t let the exhaustion of motherhood make this one optional because your baby’s immune system depends on it.
#2. Potentially Toxic Nutrition Sources
A tragic realization to have is that just because something is sold in a baby food jar doesn’t automatically mean it’s safe. In recent years, multiple studies and congressional reports have found elevated levels of toxic heavy metals in popular baby food brands.
These substances are linked to developmental delays and cognitive impairments, especially when exposure happens in the early years.
The scary part? These toxins can show up even in foods believed to be “organic.” Take the case of the baby formula lawsuit situation. Most people think of cow’s milk to be natural and safe.
However, it’s easy to forget that feeding an infant cow’s milk-based formula. As TorHoerman Law notes, several families have learned this the hard way after infants were diagnosed with Necrotizing enterocolitis.
Thus, it’s smart to be proactive and read up on what the safe sources for nutrition really are. The key thing to remember is not to be overly trusting of brand names and assume they’re safe.
As a 2025 Reuters analysis revealed, several baby food manufacturers like Plum Organics, Beech-Nut, and Gerber failed to meet California's strict lead standards. Out of over 1,750 test results, 102 samples exceeded the state's allowable lead exposure limit of 0.5 micrograms per day.
So, when shopping, look for brands that actively test for heavy metals and are transparent about their sourcing and manufacturing processes.
#3. Ensuring Enough Vitamin D (if Breastfeeding)
Now, with vaccine scheduling and toxic nutrition covered, you might think that all is safe with breastfeeding. Well, yes, but it’s a little more complicated. We know that breastfeeding provides countless benefits for your baby. It’s got antibodies, facilitates bonding, and indeed, optimal nutrition.
However, there’s one essential nutrient it doesn’t deliver in high enough quantities: vitamin D. This vitamin is crucial for bone development, calcium absorption, and immune system regulation.
Health Canada highlights that 93% of breastfeeding mothers in Canada provided vitamin D supplements to their babies, with three-quarters doing so almost every day. Thus, they recommend that exclusively and partially breastfed babies receive a daily vitamin D supplement of 400 IU.
Many new moms assume that sunlight exposure will do the trick, but once again, it’s not so simple. Babies under 6 months shouldn’t have direct sun exposure due to skin sensitivity and cancer risk. This means sunlight isn't a safe or reliable option at this age.
Thankfully, supplementation is easy. You can buy liquid vitamin D drops specifically made for infants. A single drop placed on your nipple or a pacifier is usually enough. Some formulas already contain adequate vitamin D, so supplementation may only be needed if you’re exclusively breastfeeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does postpartum brain fog last?
Postpartum brain fog usually fades within a few months. But for some moms, it can linger up to a year, especially if sleep is lacking or stress is high. Good rest, hydration, and asking for help can really make a difference in clearing it up.
2. What is the vaccine schedule for newborns?
Newborns typically get their first shots, like hepatitis B, at birth, then a series at 2, 4, and 6 months. These include vaccines for things like polio, DTaP, and rotavirus. Your pediatrician will give you a full schedule so you don’t have to memorize it all.
3. What foods are toxic to babies?
Babies under one shouldn’t have honey (risk of botulism), whole nuts (choking hazard), or anything high in salt or sugar. Also, skip things like unpasteurized dairy, raw eggs, and undercooked meat. Their little systems just aren’t ready for certain bacteria or heavy ingredients yet.
To put it simply, motherhood might feel like a constant whirlwind, but you’re doing better than you think. You just have to remind yourself to stay aware, ask questions, and make mindful choices, even when everything feels like a blur. Trust your instincts, and take it one deep breath at a time.
