Bringing your newborn home from the hospital is both a joyful and nerve-wracking experience. For the first 28 days after birth, an infant is considered a newborn. During this time, you will continue to bond with your baby, adjust to your new responsibilities and learn to recognize and respond to your newborn baby's cues.
Feeding
You should feed your newborn every two to three hours and each feeding should be between 10 and 20 minutes long, according to "Caring for a Newborn Baby" published in the "Journal of the American Medical Association." It is important to note that these are just guidelines. Some babies may need to eat more often and should be fed on demand.
Sleeping
It is normal for newborns to sleep 16 hours a day. According to the National Institute of Child Health and Development, or NICHD, babies should always be placed on their backs to sleep to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, also known as SIDS. The NICHD also recommends that babies sleep on a firm surface with a fitted sheet. Avoid using blankets, pillows or bumper pads because these items increase the baby's risk of suffocation. To keep the baby warm at night, dress your newborn in sleep clothing appropriate for the season.
Bathing
Bathe your newborn two to three times a week during the first year. A sponge bath is appropriate for newborns until the umbilical cord stump falls off, according to MayoClinic.com. Once the umbilical cord is healed, you may bathe your infant in a basin or bathtub with about 2 inches of water. Test the temperature of the bath by dipping an elbow in the water. If the water feels too hot, it will be too hot for your baby. Always support your baby's head and neck when she is in the water. Make sure everything you need for the baby's bath is within easy reach before you put your baby in the tub. Never leave your baby unattended in the bath. Because newborns become cold very quickly, your newborn's bath should be no longer than 10 minutes.
Medical Care
Before you leave the hospital with your newborn, your health care providers will give you instructions about when to take your newborn in to see the pediatrician as well as when and where to take your newborn to be screened for genetic disorders. If you are concerned about your newborn's health for any reason, do not hesitate to call your pediatrician for an appointment and advice.
Bonding
Bonding with your baby is an important part of your newborn's well-being. The emotional attachment between you and your newborn will grow as you take care of your infant's physical needs, but it is important to meet his emotional needs as well. Newborns benefit from being held close and touched often, loving eye contact and skin to skin contact, according to Kids Health.
References
- Journal of the American Medical Association: Caring for a Newborn Baby
- National Institute of Child Health and Development: What Does a Safe Sleep Environment Look Like?
- MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Bathing an Infant
- MayoClinic.com: Umbilical Cord Care: Do's and Don'ts for Parents
- Kids Health: Sleep and Newborns
