Welcoming a newborn into your life is a remarkable experience filled with love and wonder. As a newbie parent, you have probably been eagerly waiting for this moment, right?
Well, as you start this journey, caring for your little one’s well-being becomes your top priority. It’s because, during the first few weeks and months, your toddler needs to adjust to the world outside the womb.
However, this can sometimes be confusing, especially if this is your first child. Fear not because you’re not alone on this beautiful journey. This is the story of every parent.
That’s why we’ve created this short guide to help you navigate the world of newborn care with confidence and ease. So, read on!
Body Care
Caring for your newborn’s delicate body parts and skin is of utmost importance. This is especially true when it comes to their sensitive areas like the genitals and the umbilical cord stump.
To take care of the genitals, make sure that you clean them using warm water and a soft cloth. This is particularly important during diaper changes. In addition to cleaning, it’s also important to keep an eye out for any signs of health conditions, such as hydrocele, which is very common among baby boys. If you notice swelling and redness around your baby boy’s testicles, it’s best to consult a doctor immediately, as it may require medical attention.
Likewise, you must take care of the umbilical cord stump attached to your child’s belly button. You must keep the area clean and dry to prevent bacteria from entering. Gently clean this area with a mild, baby-safe cleanser, and make sure to pat it dry afterward.
Feeding
Your newborn baby will need to be fed every 2 to 3 hours. And breast milk is the best source of essential nutrients and antibodies they need for their growth and development.
However, there are situations where breastfeeding may not be possible, maybe because of insufficient milk supply. In such cases, consult your doctor for formula milk to feed your baby. You must provide that to the baby in the range of 60 to 90 ml per feeding.
Most importantly, after each feeding session, make sure to hold your baby in a comfortable position and burp them. This helps them release any trapped air in their stomach and prevents discomfort from gas.
Sleeping
Although newborns sleep for more than 14-16 hours a day, don’t expect them to sleep for a long duration. It is because they need to eat every 2-3 hours, even during the night. But there are some things you can do to make their bedtime easier. These are;
- Place them on their back and never on their stomach.
- Make sure the temperature is normal; neither overheated nor too cold.
- Ensure a comfortable crib, i.e., the crib mattress is flat.
Apart from that, to ensure that your kid sleeps for longer periods at night, you can keep the child busy during the day by playing with them.
Last Words
Taking care of your newborn is challenging, but you don’t have to do it all alone. Reach out to loved ones who can provide assistance. They can help you with household chores or simply give you a break to rest and recharge. This way, you can focus on what’s more important, i.e., caring for your child.
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