Welcoming a newborn into your life is an exciting and life-changing experience. For first-time parents, joy often comes with a mix of anxiety and questions about proper care. You want to make sure that you’re making the best decisions for your child and that you can keep them healthy and strong. It’s important to ask questions about newborn care to ensure you have an understanding of what your child needs. Dr. Albert Holloway at Payne & Holloway Pediatrics in Montgomery, AL, can explain what newborn care consists of and how you can make the best choices as a new parent.

Understanding Newborn Care as a First-Time Parent

There are many decisions you need to make for your newborn to make sure that they are happy and cared for. It’s important to talk through newborn care with your pediatrician in Montgomery, AL so that you understand the decisions you need to make and what works best for your newborn. 

Newborns typically need to eat every 2-3 hours. Whether you choose to breastfeed or use formula, ensure your baby is getting enough nourishment. Look for signs of hunger, such as fussiness, sucking on hands, or rooting. It’s important to talk to your pediatrician if you’re struggling with feeding your child to learn methods to help your child latch and get the nutrients they need. After feeding, gently burp your baby to release any trapped air. Hold your baby against your chest or sit them on your lap and pat their back until they burp. 

Place your baby on their back to sleep, on a firm mattress with no loose bedding or soft toys. This reduces the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). While newborns sleep a lot, their sleep patterns can be erratic. Establish a bedtime routine to help them differentiate between night and day. 

Newborns typically need their diapers changed about 10–12 times a day. Check their diaper frequently to keep them clean and dry. Use a gentle diaper rash cream to protect your baby’s sensitive skin and let their skin air out whenever possible. 

Until your newborn’s umbilical cord stump falls off, you’ll need to stick to gentle sponge baths. You can use a soft cloth and mild baby soap to clean your baby as needed. Ensure that your child stays warm during the process by monitoring the temperature of the room. Once the stump has healed, you can give your baby regular baths a few times a week. Always support your baby’s head and neck, and never leave them unattended. 

Contact Your Pediatrician Today

Contact Dr. Albert Holloway at Payne & Holloway Pediatrics in Montgomery, AL, to learn about newborn care. Call today at (334) 244-7209.