Life with a newborn baby is exciting and extraordinary but can also be exhausting and overwhelming. It might feel anxious walking home with your baby, especially if you are a first-time parent. The Argyle newborn care specialists agree that even newborn babies have medical needs, and it is important that they get the care they deserve. Understanding your baby’s communication is critical to understanding when something is needed and at what time. You might need to work closely with a newborn specialist for help. Also, the care you give your child is critical in preventing complications. Here are some guidelines for you.
Understand About Your Baby’s Appearance
Babies are adorable. However, they can look a bit funny at first. Although most babies will weigh about 7.5 lbs. at birth, this might change in their first days, which is normal. You might notice your baby decreasing in weight by about 6%, but they will regain it by around the tenth day. Therefore, there is no need for alarm. Also, understand that your baby’s skin color may change in the next few days. The initial color of your baby can be purple or dark red which may change in the next few days when blood circulation is improving in your baby’s body. Other normal changes you can expect are dry and peeling skin.
Feeding
Feeding is critical in ensuring your baby develops and grows well from day one. Your baby must be fed every 2-3 hours, and you ought to be consistent for the initial days. Your newborn specialist can help you understand the hunger clues you can get from your baby to know they are hungry. Your child might open and close the mouth often or turn their head restlessly. If your baby doesn’t burp after feeding, it is completely normal. And if breastfeeding is not for you, do not be stressed out by the saying that breast is best. The formula is also healthy.
Response to Crying
Your newborn crying is crucial and means that something is not well, and they are trying to communicate with you. It is crucial to respond quickly for the initial months and figure out what will happen. Ensure that you meet their basic needs and check if they are too cold or warm. Your baby might stop crying when you meet their basic needs, but if the crying continues, you better try swaddling, shushing, swaying, or swinging. Or you can seek help.
Boning
Bonding with your child is critical for their health in several ways—Pay attention when your baby is awake and play with them. Engage in skin-to-skin contact, which is vital for your baby’s health. Also, understand that your child is listening, although they cannot talk back, so you better talk to them. Additionally, tummy time is crucial for your baby’s strength and development. Place them on their stomach and play with them. Ensure the surface is soft and can cause no harm to our baby.
Ask for Help
You might need extra support as a new parent. Please do not be afraid to ask for help. Plus, newborn specialists understand the needs of babies better. Therefore, seek expert help and consult anytime you need clarification or fail to understand your baby. Caring for a baby can be challenging but easier with extra support and help.
Taking care of and understanding the needs of a newborn is not easy. Get in touch with the specialists at Argyle Pediatrics to learn more about newborn health and needs. Book a consultation appointment with a direct call to the office or use the online feature.
