Here’s How to Take Care of a New Born Baby?

Tips to Take Care of Newborn Baby

Taking care of a newborn is obviously a challenge when it is your first time. So, here are ten ways that will assist you in taking care of a newborn baby:

1. Feeding the baby on time is very important. A newborn has to be fed every 2 to 3 hours, which means you need to nurse her 8-12 times in 24 hours and they should be fed only breast milk for the first 6 months.

2. Learn how to make a baby burp as once fed as burping expels excess air which the baby swallows while feeding. This aids in digestion and prevents spit-ups and stomach colic. All you need to do is gently hold the baby against your chest with one hand, rest their chin on your shoulder and pat or stroke their back very gently with your other hand until they burp.

3. Learn how to hold your newborn baby as their neck muscles are not yet strong enough to hold up the head independently. Also, the backbone is still growing and becoming stronger. The neck will be able to support the head on its own only after 3 months of age. So pay attention to supporting your newborn baby’s head and neck while taking care.

4. Umbilical cord stump care is an important aspect of newborn baby care in the 1st month. Give bath 2-6 hours after birth with lukewarm water and to clean, use a damp cloth and keep the naval area clean and dry using an absorbent cloth. Look out for signs of infection in the cord-stump area and in case of any redness, swelling, smelly discharge or pus, and bleeding in the navel area, take the baby to a paediatrician.

5. Change diapers frequently and as soon as it feels full. This is an important aspect when taking care of a newborn baby after delivery. If your baby is getting sufficient breast milk or formula, she will wet at least 6 to 8 diapers in a day, along with regular bowel movements. To change a dirty diaper, you will need a changing sheet, gentle diaper wipes, diaper rash cream or baby powder and fresh diapers. In case of a baby girl, in order to prevent UTI, wipe her from front to back rather than back to front. Also, let your baby remain without a diaper for a few hours each day.

6. Bathing a newborn is a delicate task. Make sure you have all the bathing and changing supplies ready before you take the baby for a bath. Bath time just before bedtime helps babies sleep more soundly.

7. Massaging is a great way to bond with your baby and it also helps in soothing the baby to sleep and in improving blood circulation and digestion. Maintain eye contact with the baby and talk to her when massaging her body. A good time to massage the baby is before her bath.

8. Sleeping for about 16 hours daily in the first 2 months is normal. They usually take naps that are 2 to 4 hours long and wake up if they are hungry or wet. Do not worry in case she does not follow the ideal newborn sleep pattern.

9. Disinfect or wash your hands before handling the baby, as their immune systems are not fully developed, and they are vulnerable to infections. Ensure that your baby is fastened securely in a stroller, car seat, or baby carrier if you are taking them out.