10 Questions You Asked the Paediatrician!

As moms, we never stop having endless questions—that's what I realized when I posted Instagram Stories asking for your questions to pose to paediatrician Katerina Katsibardi in a very mom-centric video filled with questions and, of course, answers!

I admit it was hard to choose because I received over 500 questions, but I finally selected the ones I believe are most general and relevant to most moms. I'm sure these questions are yours too! I met with Katerina Katsibardi, my favorite paediatrician, and asked your questions. Let's see!

• Question 1
  "Can we go on vacation with our baby? Our son is 3 months old, and I'm afraid to plan a trip far from home..."
  Angeliki
  Of course, we can go on vacation with our babies! However, especially at such a young age, careful consideration is needed in choosing a vacation destination. For example, avoid remote areas where, in case of an emergency, you might have to wait two or three days for a return ferry. Even for something minor, like a fever—which we usually monitor for the first 24 hours—a three-month-old baby should be seen by a doctor immediately. Therefore, while a baby can certainly go on vacation, it's best to choose a nearby destination. 
• Question 2
  "How can I help my 3-year-old son stop using diapers? Should I be worried? What can I do now that summer is coming?"
  Mania
  It’s not something to worry about! Every child has his/her own pace when it comes to potty training. The key is for the child to be neurologically and psychologically ready. Boys typically take longer than girls to stop using diapers. I would suggest Mania to be proactive in establishing a toilet routine for her son. Take advantage of the fact that children at this age love to mimic. For instance, guide him to the toilet every morning after waking up, so he starts imitating what the rest of the family does. Use a child-friendly toilet seat to make the process easier. Transitioning from open diapers to pull-up training pants can also help. Summer is often an ideal time for potty training since children wear fewer clothes, and accidents are easier to manage without carpets at home.
  Read more about toilet training here:
  http://www.babylino.gr/article/131/project-kopsimo-panas
• Question 3
  "I feel exhausted from breastfeeding. Am I a 'bad mom'? I feel like stopping..."
  Mina
  There’s no such thing as a "good" or "bad" mom! With today’s fast-paced lifestyles, modern mothers often juggle work and multiple responsibilities, sometimes returning to work shortly after giving birth. Breastfeeding requires patience and persistence. For a small percentage of women, it’s easy, but for most, success comes through determination and the right support from their paediatrician and family. If a mother struggles with breastfeeding and cannot cope, she can absolutely stop. The well-being of the mother is just as important as that of the baby.
• Question 4
  "My 15-month-old daughter has never slept more than 3 hours in a row. I feel exhausted and anxious. Could she be in pain?"
  Stavroula
  Not necessarily. By 15 months, colic is uncommon, and any underlying issue would likely have already been examined by the paediatrician. Children have different sleep patterns; some sleep a lot and continuously, while others need less sleep or don’t sleep through the night. Try to establish a consistent bedtime routine. If your child cries at night, avoid picking her up or moving her from her bedroom to yours.
• Question 5
  "My 5.5-year-old daughter still has nighttime accidents. Should I be worried? What can I do?"
  Christina
  Nighttime accidents are common, affecting 10-20% of children. This is often hereditary—one or both parents may have experienced the same in childhood. It’s normal up to age 7, though a small percentage of children may continue to have accidents beyond that. Avoid shaming the child; instead, offer encouragement. Calmly discuss the importance of waking up if needed during the night and consider rediscussing the topic after some time.
• Question 6
  "My daughter has very sensitive skin. How do I choose the right diaper to ensure sensitive protection?"
  Alexia
  Always check the diaper packaging for dermatological testing by reputable centers. Look for certifications such as OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100, ensuring that the diaper is free from over 200 harmful substances. Choose soft and certified skin-friendly diapers.
• Question 7
  "At what age should children start brushing their teeth? My 22-month-old son doesn’t understand how to use a toothbrush."
  Markella
  You can start cleaning your child’s teeth as soon as the first tooth appears, using gauze, water, or toothpaste safe for ingestion at this age. If your child doesn’t grasp the concept, use two toothbrushes: one for you to brush their teeth and one for them to "play" with. Encourage imitation by letting them watch family members brush their teeth.
• Question 8
  "What should I do if my child gets sunstroke? How will I know?"
  Gianna
  Sunstroke symptoms can resemble those of a viral illness, with lethargy and fatigue after sun exposure. If you suspect sunstroke, cool and hydrate your child. Move him/her to a shaded area and provide plenty of fluids.
• Question 9
  "How can I tell if my daughter has a urinary tract infection, and how can I prevent it?"
  Elena
  UTI symptoms vary with age. Babies with fever should always be checked for UTIs. Older children may experience discomfort, frequent urination or burning sensations. Maintain good hygiene, especially for children still in diapers and avoid swimming in unclean pools.
• Question 10
  "We want to get a pet after summer. Will getting a cat be dangerous for my daughter?"
  Chrysa
  Not at all! Paediatricians often recommend pets for children, as exposure to allergens like pet fur can reduce allergies and asthma later in life. Ensure the pet is vaccinated and regularly checked by a veterinarian.
  
  With love,
  Myrto
  Watch the video here!