Surviving Life as Baby in the Middle Ages..
Infant mortality rates were extremely high in the Middle Ages. Many babies didn’t survive their first year due to a variety of factors:
- Disease and Infection:
- Lack of Sanitation: Basic hygiene practices were limited, leading to the spread of diseases.
- Poor Nutrition: Malnutrition weakened infants’ immune systems, making them more susceptible to illnesses.
- Difficult Births:
- Lack of Medical Expertise: Midwives, while skilled, often lacked advanced medical knowledge.
- Complications: Births could be dangerous for both mother and child, leading to complications like infections and hemorrhages.
- Harsh Living Conditions:
- Exposure to the Elements: Infants were often exposed to harsh weather conditions, further weakening their immune systems.
- Poor Housing: Crowded and unsanitary living conditions increased the risk of disease.
- Infant Care Practices:
- Swaddling: While it was believed to protect infants, it could also restrict movement and breathing.
- Breastfeeding: While breastfeeding was common, it was often supplemented with other liquids, which could introduce bacteria.
Despite these challenges, some babies did survive. Breastfeeding was a crucial factor, providing essential nutrients and antibodies. Additionally, the strong bond between mothers and their infants, combined with traditional remedies and folk medicine, helped some babies to thrive. However, the overall survival rate for infants during the Middle Ages was quite low.