A fever typically indicates that your baby is fighting an infection. According to Babycenter, the human body fights things better with an elevated temperature because bacteria doesn't thrive as well and the fever prompts the body to make more antibodies. A fever can make your baby uncomfortable and last two to three days. In a newborn baby, a fever should be taken seriously.
Normal Temperature
The normal temperature for a newborn baby falls in the range of 97 to 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, or 36 to 38 degrees Celsius, according to Babycenter. Her temperature may vary according to the way you take the temperature. For example, if you use a thermometer under her arm, you may need to add a degree for an accurate reading. Whether you use an oral, rectal, underarm or forehead thermometer, follow the manufacturer's directions to get an accurate temperature reading.
Factors
Some factors can cause your baby's temperature to be lower or higher than usual, but are not necessarily a cause for concern. Your baby's temperature will naturally rise in late afternoon to early evening, and may be a little lower in the morning. Because a newborn cannot regulate his body temperature well yet, he may seem warm if he is overbundled. Vaccinations can also cause a slight rise in a baby's temperature.
When to Worry
If your newborn's temperature is higher than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit, call her doctor. A fever in a newborn should be taken seriously. Once she gets to be three to six months old, you can wait to call the doctor if her fever is under 101 degrees Fahrenheit. The temperature might not be a sign of a serious condition if she is eating well, is alert and has normal skin color, but her doctor may want to see her anyway. If she has decreased appetite, cough, diarrhea, or is irritable, pale or vomiting, be sure to let her doctor know.
Fever Remedies
Your baby's doctor can recommend ways to help reduce the baby's fever according to his condition and ailment. You can try sponging him down with lukewarm water to bring the fever down. Do not use ice packs or cold water baths, which can induce shivering and raise his temperature.
Medication
Although some medications can help reduce your newborn's fever, they should only be used under the direction of her doctor. Aspirin should never be given to a baby, as it can make her more susceptible to the potentially fatal disorder Reye's syndrome. Ibuprofen should not be given to a baby under six months of age. Acetaminophen is safe for a baby, but the dosage depends on your baby's specific weight, so ask your doctor about its use. Keep in mind that medication is only a temporary solution for your baby's fever.
