Newborns can face some significant challenges for such a small baby. This is to be expected, as newborns experience a period of rapid growth and development in the first few months of life. It takes a lot of work for you and your newborn to establish patterns of sleep, eating, and communication.
While you’re bound to have questions, we’re here to help you get ready to take care of your newborn. Get to know your newborn with this expert guide to promoting healthy sleep, feeding, skin care, and more.
Your Newborn May Look a Little Strange
Here’s the thing: your baby’s face may be squeezed as it passes through the birth canal. Their head may be tapered, especially if they “drop” into the birth canal very early before giving birth or have experienced a long labor.
Newborns may also have a layer of fine hairs or vernix called fetal hair, especially premature babies. These neonatal features are normal and usually temporary. Enjoy their special and precious “birthday” looks!
You Have to Wait for a Smile
Your baby’s first smile may brighten up your life around two months. Until then, your boss is very demanding. To overcome exhaustion and mood swings, remember: your early efforts will not be in vain, and your baby will benefit greatly.
Los Angeles pediatrician Christopher Tolcher, MD, says: “Babies will feel comforted by you, they will feel attached, and they love to be held.” In addition, even if you have to wait a few months to see it, the connection and development in your baby’s body is constantly strengthening.
You’ll Have to Wait for Shower Time
The United States Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that your baby take the first bath within 24 hours of birth. They also recommend a sponge bath before your baby’s umbilical cord falls off. If the umbilical cord remains dry, it will fall off more quickly – usually within a week or two. If the umbilical cord does get wet, pat it dry.
Allison · Bracken in West Roxbury, Massachusetts, learned that if the umbilical cord bleed a little when the stump fell off, that didn’t matter. “I was scared at first,” she said, but then she realized that slight bleeding and even scabbing were normal. (On the other hand, if you notice pus, exudate, excessive bleeding, or the stump not falling off on its own, see your pediatrician.)
Weakness Is Not Terrible
“I’m scared of that soft spot,” admits April Hardwick of New York City, referring to the opening in the skull, also known as the fontanelle, which allows the baby to come out of the birth canal. “Gemma was born with hair all over her head, and I was initially afraid to comb through that soft spot,” Hardwick says.
But there’s no need to worry: “It’s okay to touch this soft spot and nearby baby hair,” says Tanya Remer Altmann, M.D., a pediatrician and author of “Mom’s Calling.” ” This area may pulsate because it is located just above the blood vessels that cover the brain.
If Your Baby Isn’t Eating Enough, They’ll Tell You
Newborns need to be fed every two to three hours, but if you’re breastfeeding, it can be difficult to know how much milk your baby is actually drinking. The good news is that there’s a way to tell: “A baby’s weight is the best indicator of early years,” says Dr. Tolcher.
Your pediatrician will check your baby’s weight for a few days after you leave the hospital and at every check-up. Healthy newborns may lose 10% of their weight in the first week, but regain weight in the second week. If your baby isn’t gaining weight, your doctor will let you know and you can discuss a feeding plan.
Diaper counts can also be used as a measure: the initial five-day schedule is random, but thereafter, you should see five to six wet diapers a day, as well as at least one or two poops.
Dry Skin Is Normal in Newborns
Initially, your baby’s skin may be soft and smooth, but it can change quickly. “If you soak in liquid for nine months and then come into contact with air, your skin will dry out too!” Said Laura Jana, MD, pediatrician and co-author of Bringing Your Newborn Home.
You don’t need to do anything about your baby’s dry skin (peeling and flaking are common), but if you prefer, opt for a hypoallergenic and fragrance-free baby lotion.
Small bumps, diaper rash, and even baby acne may also occur – which is normal. If the rash starts to ooze and doesn’t get better, or if your baby has a fever, see your doctor’s doctor as this could be a sign of infection and may need treatment.
You Can Choose Your Outing
You are completely free to stay at home with your baby if you wish, but you can also go out and take risks with some precautions when you need a change of environment.
Dr. Tolcher advises: “Use common sense when you go out. “Keep your baby out of the sun, keep your distance from people who may be sick, and avoid crowded enclosed spaces (such as shops and gatherings during holidays). During RSV epidemic season, which runs roughly from October to March, you may also need to take extra precautions.
“Teaching older siblings to touch the baby’s feet instead of hands and faces will help prevent the spread of infection,” Dr. Tolcher added. Dr. Jana suggests that your older child can be a health police officer if needed. They may enjoy telling guests, “Don’t touch the baby without washing your hands!”
Newborns May Cry a Lot
Those shrill cries are how newborns communicate: they will tell you that they are hungry, cold, have a dirty diaper, or want to be carried. These early “conversations” can be frustrating, but rest assured that you’ll get a better understanding of your baby’s needs in a timely manner.
Laurie · May of Boardman, Ohio, and her husband quickly learned to read their daughter’s hunger signals. When they first became parents, they set an alarm clock that went off every two hours to wake Carter to breastfeed. “We don’t need an alarm clock!” She said. “Now we love to laugh at that.”
Studies have shown that the number of babies crying peaks between 5 and 6 weeks. So, if you’re having a hard time during this time, be aware that brighter, calmer days may be coming soon. (Of course, if you feel something is wrong, be sure to consult your pediatrician.)
“Snoozing” is Real
Sleep problems can be complicated in the first three months of a newborn’s life. Your baby needs to feed every two to three hours, so you won’t be able to sleep. “Things will get better gradually,” Dr. Altmann assures. “Most babies are able to sleep for six to eight hours by the time they are 3 months old.”
Newborns don’t have a circadian rhythm like an adult, but they will gradually develop a circadian rhythm around eight weeks. Now, as long as your baby’s pediatrician allows it, you can let your cat sleep as long as they want between evening feedings.
The Nascent Stage Is Fleeting
Stressed, exhausted, lonely? The early stages of parenting can be challenging. But these days also have their own unique beauty, and they are fleeting. New York City’s Barbara · Evans said, “I wish I knew how quickly time flies.” 8-month-old Luella’s mom says, “I didn’t take enough photos or take notes!”
Rabia · Baloch from Sugarland, Texas shares some of her experienced mom experiences: “When I had my first child, I was nervous about everything, from changing diapers to whether the baby was crying more than usual. When I had my second child, I just loved holding her, smelling her, kissing her, and enjoying the time together. ”
Remember, there is no “right” or “wrong” way to get through the first few days of newborn upbringing.
Some parents love cuddling their newborns, while others enjoy the chaotic fun of early childhood. Your personal feelings are legitimate, and if you need help early on, don’t be afraid to seek support from loved ones and healthcare providers when needed.