As your newborn baby gets used to the outside world, his body will undergo many changes and experience a variety of reactions to new situations. Even the smallest problem can cause anxiety in a new parent. Fortunately, many conditions are common and can be treated at home.
Constipation
According to the Keep Kids Healthy website, constipation is defined as hard stool that is difficult to pass and causes bleeding or pain. Your infant may strain or groan while trying to go to the bathroom. Constipation may be a sign that your baby isn’t eating enough. For the first few days, newborns pass meconium, a dark substance made up of materials ingested while in utero. After that, newborns typically have multiple stools daily. However, the amount of stools may vary from child to child. In addition, it is normal for breastfed babies to have only one bowel movement per week after the age of 3 weeks. Even so, infants who are exclusively fed mother's milk rarely are constipated. If you suspect your baby is constipated, consult your pediatrician. The solution may be as simple as switching formulas.
Diaper Rash
A newborn’s sensitive skin is susceptible to diaper rash. The Ask Dr. Sears website says there are several different types of diaper rash. Contact diaper rash is caused by prolonged contact with urine, stool and chemicals found in diapers. Yeast rash affects mostly the genitalia area and occurs when intestinal yeast invades the skin and can occur when babies are on antibiotics for ailments such as ear infections. You'll need to contact your pediatrician to get a prescription to treat a yeast rash. Use creams and ointments that contain petroleum or zinc oxide to clear up ordinary diaper rash. Also, be sure to change soiled diapers immediately to help prevent one from ever forming. If the rash is recurrent despite your vigilance, consider switching diapers as your baby may be allergic to the brand you're using.
Jaundice
Newborn jaundice causes a yellowish discoloration to a baby’s skin and eyes. The Mayo Clinic states that this condition is common in premature babies. It typically occurs when a newborn’s liver is not strong enough to rid the bloodstream of bilirubin. Although jaundice often disappears on its own after two weeks, a doctor may suggest treatment. To lessen the symptoms of jaundice at home, feed your newborn more frequently. Give formula-fed babies up to 2 oz of formula every two hours for one week. If breastfeeding, consider supplementing with formula for a few days to encourage hydration. This will help excrete bilirubin through frequent bowel movements.
Phototherapy, a special light that reshapes the bilirubin molecules, typically is used to treat severe cases. Phototherapy usually is done in the hospital but there also are home phototherapy machines that parents can use. Most babies require treatment for several days. During treatment, the bilirubin levels will be monitored via a blood sample. When bilirubin levels are normal again, therapy is no longer required.
