If you’re a mommy or daddy to be, then, congratulations! The arrival of your new baby is one of the best gifts God can give you in this material world, literally. Being a parent is a life of complicated situations and challenges, but there is no greater joy in this universe than being a mom or a dad.
The moment your baby is born, your heart is filled with love and happiness that you can’t explain, right? That is true. And so, because you love your baby so much, you will take care of him and protect him with your life.
What To Do With New Infants?
Caring for a newborn involves several essential aspects to ensure their health, safety, and overall well-being. Here are some key to remember during a newborn care:
1. It’s Fine To Look For Help During The First Few Weeks After Birth
Some women give birth by a Caesarean section while others are blessed to have wide hips and give birth naturally. Well, it won’t matter if you’re a CS momma or a normal delivery mum. Having your baby’s life and in good health is the most important thing. Moving for the first few days will be difficult. With that, it’s perfectly fine to get some help.
You can enlist the help of your relatives, friends, or even an at-home baby nurse if you can afford it. If you’re a first-time mom or dad, you can benefit from people with experience with babies. Mommy, it’s okay to rest and sleep after giving birth. Don’t pressure yourself too much, deal? While you baby care for a newborn baby, you also need to take care of your body and your mental health, as well. If you feel emotionally overwhelmed at any time, contact a counselor for immediate assistance.
Remember:
After giving birth, the baby is put on the mom’s chest with some skin-to-skin contact. This is to promote an emotional connection which is necessary for mother-baby bonding. It can help both the mom and the baby with their emotional growth and of course, the love between them. Moms, always hold your baby. Touch him, caress him and make him feel that love.
2. Wash Your Hands. This Is The Cardinal Rule
Wash your hands before you hold your baby. No exemptions and no excuses on this rule. Why is this necessary? Well, many babies have a weak immune system, and your hands can come from everywhere – dirty laundry, kitchen garbage, cellphone, computer, and everything else. Your hands carry viruses, germs, and bacteria that will harm your baby.
So, before you hold him, wash your hands and use a hand sanitizer too, just to be sure that you’re perfectly bacteria-free.
3. NO Kissing On The Face
There was a newborn baby who died from a kiss back in 2017. It wasn’t just a normal kiss. The person who kissed the baby had transferred a deadly virus called viral meningitis, and after 18 days, the disease killed the supposedly healthy baby.
From this example alone, it would be better to avoid kissing your baby’s face. If you want to kiss him, do so at the foot and with the sock on.
4. Don’t Shake Your Baby Too Much
Shaken Baby Syndrome – this is also a baby killer. First time parents are often too excited about the baby, and they just go on shaking or rocking it to sleep. Well, don’t shake your baby too much. The baby’s brain is too fragile, and the shaking will cause bleeding.
Tip: If you want to wake up your baby, don’t shake his head. Tickle his feet or blow on his cheek to do that.
5. You Need To Buy A Newborn Baby Carrier, Stroller, And Car Seat
Why buy all of these things? A carrier can make the baby feel like it’s still in the womb. It means the baby will be comforted by it and the carrier can also help you move about even if you’re carrying your baby. The stroller is your help with transporting your baby. Make sure to buy one fit for a newborn. As for the car seat, well, it’s the law in the US to provide a car seat for babies and kids. This is mandatory. But before anything else, remember to fasten and secure your baby in these devices.
6. No Rough Play
A newborn baby doesn’t understand playing, and so, no rough tickling. No jiggling. Never make it sit up to 5-6 months old and never throw your newborn up in the air.
7. Support Your Newborn’s Head And Neck
It is crucial to support your newborn’s head and neck, especially in the early stages, due to their delicate nature and the impact of their birth weight.
Newborns have relatively weak neck muscles and limited control over their head movements. Additionally, their heads are proportionally larger and heavier in relation to the rest of their bodies. These factors, combined with the effects of their birth weight, make it necessary to provide adequate support to their head and neck.
Supporting the head and neck helps prevent any sudden or excessive movements that could strain the baby’s fragile neck muscles or potentially cause injury. It also assists in maintaining proper alignment of the spine and protects the baby’s developing neck vertebrae.
The birth weight of a baby is an important consideration when providing head and neck support. Babies with higher birth weights may have increased mass and size in their heads, requiring extra care and support. Premature infants, who often have lower birth weights, also require special attention and gentle support to ensure their delicate necks are not strained.
By consistently providing appropriate head and neck support during daily activities, such as holding, feeding, and carrying the baby, we help promote proper development and minimize the risk of any potential injuries. As the baby grows and gains strength, their head and neck control will improve, and they will require less external support.
8. Learn How To Swaddle
This is a soothing technique that you must learn to comfort your baby.
- Lay down the baby blanket on the bed.
- Put your baby on the baby blanket.
- Wrap the baby on one side, tucking in the excess blanket under the baby’s arms. Do the other side, as well.
- Pull the excess blanket on the bottom going up and secure your baby.
- Read further here: WomensHealth.Gov
9. Diaper 101
Okay, here is the real deal with diapers. Newborns are expelling their waste at least five times a day. So, you have to be ready with that. You can use a cloth diaper or the disposable diapers. The downside to using cloth diapers is that you will have to wash it often. The advantage is your baby will never have diaper rash.
The diaper must be clean. You must also have a diaper cream handy, just in case. It is a must to have diaper wipes or wet cotton balls to clean your baby’s butt too. If your baby gets a rash, call your doctor immediately for assistance. He will tell you what to do or if you need a visit with him, assuming the rash is severe.
10. Give Your Baby A Quick Sponge Bath
The umbilical cord is still attached – just leave it and don’t take it off by force. After the sponge bath, you can put alcohol on the cord and wipe the excess. The cord will fall off in a few weeks.
How many times do you have to give your baby a sponge bath?
The frequency of giving your baby a sponge bath depends on various factors, such as personal preference, cultural practices, and the baby’s specific needs. However, it is generally recommended to give a newborn a sponge bath two to three times per week to keep the baby clean.
Newborns do not typically get very dirty, and frequent bathing can actually strip their delicate skin of natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Instead, regular diaper changes, wiping the baby’s face and genital area after each diaper change, and cleaning any soiled areas promptly are usually sufficient to maintain cleanliness.
During sponge baths, you can focus on areas that tend to accumulate more dirt or sweat, such as the face, neck folds, underarms, and diaper area. Use a soft washcloth or sponge dampened with warm water to gently cleanse these areas, taking care not to immerse the baby fully in water.
While sponge baths are typically done a few times per week, it’s important to keep the baby’s face, hands, and diaper area clean on a daily basis. Regular cleaning and maintaining good hygiene practices help ensure the baby stays comfortable and free from dirt or irritants.
It’s worth noting that if your baby has any specific medical conditions or circumstances that require more frequent bathing, it’s best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance on how to keep your baby clean and maintain their well-being.
11. Feeding And Burping Time
Feeding your baby will depend upon his demand and feeding schedule. He will cry, suck his fingers, and make weird noises whenever he’s hungry. Typically, newborn babies feed every two to three hours according to their feeding schedule. As for those who are breastfeeding, provide 15 minutes on each side of your breast for your baby. If you are using formula feeding, you can start with one ounce and gradually increase if you see that your baby needs more, following the recommended feeding schedule.
How will you know if your baby is getting the milk he needs, especially if you’re breastfeeding and can’t see if he’s had enough? You will notice some changes like your baby will get heavier, he will sleep better, nappy changes are more frequent, and his diapers are filled at least six times a day. You will also feel your breasts if it is still full and plump with breast milk if the baby didn’t drink all of it.
After feeding, you have to let your baby burp. Carry your baby upright and place him on your chest. Tap his back lightly and press his abdomen gently on your body. He will burp in a few minutes. You can do this standing up, sitting down or while lying on the bed.
Note: If your baby doesn’t burp easily, change his position. The reason why you need to burp your baby is for him not to vomit or spit up milk. Don’t make him overdrink, though.
12. Sleeping Habits Of A Newborn
Newborns will sleep the whole day or whole night through if you’re lucky. Most babies ask for milk every few hours even during at night. You will have to get up and feed him.
Sometimes, they would be asleep for as much as 16 hours a day in total. This is normal and so, don’t worry about it. Their sleeping time is around 2 to 4 hours before he wakes up to feed again. Some babies smoothly go back to sleep after feeding while some will keep you up at night with their colicky ways.
Tips For Mothers
- You must put your baby on his back when asleep to prevent SIDS or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.
- Keep all distractions from the crib away from your baby. These are the blankets, extra pillows, toys, and more. He might suffocate from it.
- It’s okay to keep your baby on the same room as yours, but he must be on his bed or crib; not on your bed. Accidents like falling off the bed or a parent crushing the baby might happen.
- You have to shift the baby’s head every day when he is sleeping to keep the head’s surface balanced on both sides.
- Don’t worry about the soft spot on the head. Never press it or touch it. It will just harden on its own.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The 4 Basic Needs Of Newborns?
Newborns should receive all 4 elements of essential care which are immediate and thorough drying, skin-to-skin contact, delayed cord clamping, and early initiation of breastfeeding.
What Does A Mother Need For Her Newborn?
Once the baby arrives, and you bring the baby home, it is going to be a lot and the first thing you’ll need is a checklist to include a breast pump, milk storage containers, nursing pillows, nursing bras, breast pads, as well as a lotion for sore nipples.
What Are The Danger Signs In Newborns?
There are several danger signs to watch out for in newborns. It’s essential to pay attention if a baby shows signs of any potential complications or health issues. Some of the danger signs in newborns include:
- Respiratory problems: If a baby shows signs of difficulty breathing, such as rapid or shallow breathing, grunting sounds, or bluish discoloration of the lips or skin, it could indicate a respiratory issue that requires immediate medical attention.
- Fever: A fever in a newborn, typically defined as a rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, can be a sign of infection and should be evaluated promptly by a healthcare professional.
- Excessive crying or irritability: If a baby is inconsolable and excessively fussy, it may indicate an underlying problem, such as infection, pain, or discomfort. It’s important to assess the baby’s overall behavior and seek medical advice if concerns arise.
- Poor feeding or decreased appetite: Babies generally have a strong instinct to feed. If a newborn shows persistent difficulties with feeding, such as inadequate sucking, weak latch, or decreased appetite, it could indicate a feeding problem or underlying medical condition.
- Jaundice: Jaundice is a common condition in newborns characterized by yellowing of the baby’s skin and eyes. While mild jaundice is usually harmless, persistent or worsening jaundice, especially within the first 24 hours after birth, requires medical evaluation, as it may indicate an underlying issue with the baby’s liver or red blood cells.
- Lethargy or extreme sleepiness: If a baby appears excessively tired, unresponsive, or difficult to wake up, it may be a warning sign of a serious condition and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Remember, these are general danger signs, and each baby is unique. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns or notice any unusual behaviors or symptoms in your newborn. Early detection and prompt medical attention can help ensure the well-being and health of the baby.
What Should I Be Careful Of With Newborn?
Always make sure that your hands are clean, freshly washed, or sanitized before handling your baby, support your baby’s head and neck, never shake your newborn whether in play or in frustration, and make sure that your baby is securely fastened into the carrier, stroller, or car seat.
What Do You Do With A Newborn All Day?
Besides nursing and cleaning your newborns, the key is to constantly interact with your newborns, rather than give them games and toys.
What Can Newborns See?
Your baby can only see black and white and a little bit of gray right after birth because the nerve cells and retina of your baby’s eyes are not yet fully developed making it hard for them to focus and are sensitive to lights.
What Is The Best Lying Position For Newborn?
The best sleeping position advised for newborns is on their back every time they sleep as the chance of SIDS of higher for other sleeping positions.
Your baby should sleep in his own crib or bassinet, it is good to share a room with your baby, but don’t share a bed with them. Don’t put too many blankets or pillows in your baby’s crib for it might block their nose and cause difficulty in breathing.
According to the National Sleep Foundation, newborns should get 14–17 hours of sleep over a 24-hour period, some newborns may sleep up to 18–19 hours a day and would wake every couple of hours to eat.
You don’t need to give your newborn a bath every day, three times a week should be a good balance because bathing your baby too much might dry out their delicate skin.
How Do You Burp A Newborn?
Burping a newborn is an important step in helping them release air trapped in their digestive system, which can cause discomfort or colic. While there are various methods to burp a newborn, one technique that can be effective is combining burping with infant massage.
Here’s how you can burp a newborn using infant massage:
- Prepare a comfortable and safe space: Find a quiet and secure area where you can comfortably hold and interact with your baby.
- Position the baby: Hold your newborn in an upright position against your chest, with their head resting on your shoulder. Use one hand to support their bottom and the other hand to support their upper back.
- Begin the infant massage: While supporting your baby, gently pat or stroke their back using a circular motion with your hand. Start from the lower back and move upward towards the shoulders. This gentle massage can help relax the baby and stimulate the release of trapped air.
- Maintain a gentle rhythm: Continue the circular motion while keeping a gentle and rhythmic pace. The steady movement can assist in burping the baby by encouraging air bubbles to rise to the surface.
- Pause for burping: After a few minutes of massaging, pause and slightly adjust the baby’s position, ensuring their head is still supported. Gently pat or rub their back, focusing on the area between the shoulder blades, to encourage burping.
- Be patient and observe cues: Some babies may burp quickly, while others may take a bit longer. Be patient and attentive to your baby’s cues. If they seem comfortable and content, you can continue with the massage to help facilitate burping.
Remember, every baby is different, so it’s essential to pay attention to your baby’s comfort level and adjust the techniques accordingly. If one method doesn’t work, you can try different positions or alternative burping techniques to find what works best for your baby.
What Is The Priority In The Immediate Care Of The Newborn?
The priority in the immediate care of the newborn is to keep the baby warm. This is crucial because babies are not able to regulate their body temperature effectively, and maintaining an appropriate temperature is essential for their well-being. By keeping the baby warm, we create a favorable environment for their development and overall health.
Additionally, providing warmth supports various aspects of a baby’s development. Adequate temperature regulation helps optimize organ function, metabolic processes, and physiological stability within the baby’s body. It also promotes proper blood circulation, respiratory function, and digestion, all of which are vital for the baby’s growth and development.
Therefore, ensuring that the baby is kept warm right after birth is a primary concern in the immediate care of newborns.
What To Do If A Baby Has Hiccups?
If a baby has hiccups, there are a few things you can do to help alleviate them. One approach is to hold the baby against your bare chest, providing skin-to-skin contact. This can offer comfort and a soothing environment, potentially helping to reduce the hiccups.
Additionally, healthcare providers often suggest offering the baby a feeding or a pacifier as sucking can help interrupt the hiccup cycle and provide relief. For formula-fed babies, you can try offering a small amount of milk to see if it helps stop the hiccups.
It’s important to note that hiccups are usually harmless and temporary in infants. However, if the hiccups persist for an extended period, occur frequently, or seem to cause discomfort to the baby, it’s advisable to consult with healthcare providers for further evaluation and guidance.
Remember, each baby is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Pay attention to your baby’s cues and comfort level when trying different techniques to address hiccups.
How Long After Birth Is A Newborn Ready To Breastfeed?
The readiness of a newborn to breastfeed can vary, as babies develop at their own pace. However, in general, most newborns are ready to breastfeed shortly after birth. Skin-to-skin contact and early breastfeeding initiation are encouraged within the first hour after delivery, as this promotes bonding between the baby and the mother and stimulates the baby’s natural feeding instincts.
How Many Diapers Does A Newborn Use A Day?
The number of diapers a newborn uses in a day can vary depending on several factors, including the baby’s age, feeding pattern, and metabolism. On average, newborns tend to require frequent diaper changes, often ranging from 8 to 12 diapers per day.
Newborn babies have small bladders and may pass urine frequently, especially during the early days when their feeding and hydration needs are high. Additionally, newborns typically have bowel movements several times a day, so keeping the baby’s genital area clean and dry is important to prevent diaper rash and maintain good hygiene.
Regular diaper changes are necessary to ensure the baby’s comfort and prevent skin irritation. It’s essential to check the diaper frequently and change it promptly whenever it becomes wet or soiled. By maintaining a clean and dry environment around the baby’s genital area, we can help prevent diaper-related skin issues and promote overall comfort for the newborn.
Last Updated on April 11, 2023 by Shulammite Jan Languido
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