What to Expect During the First Week of Newborn Care

At A to Z Pediatrics, Dr. Haravu Lokesh, Dr. Rupal Desai, Dr. Monica Porcelli, and Tarah Savino, PA-C care for children of all ages, including newborns. If you are a new parent, you want a reliable doctor to ensure your baby is healthy and developing on schedule. For newborn care in New Port Richey, FL, schedule an appointment with A to Z Pediatrics immediately.

Expect Lots of Sleep or a Lack of It

One of the biggest things to prepare for when caring for a new baby is changes in sleeping habits. Your baby will sleep a lot — up to 18 hours a day. However, they won't continuously sleep through the night for at least three months. During the newborn phase, you can expect your child to wake up every two or three hours for feeding. Therefore, a new parent needs to adjust sleep to accommodate the baby without help. Remember, all babies are different, so some may begin sleeping through the night sooner or later than others. Your child's sleep is affected by the environment, how they're fed, and teething.

Understand Feeding Habits

Part of tending to a young baby is feeding. The question is, will you be breastfeeding or using formula? A breastfeeding mother must pay attention to her overall health to ensure she's getting her nutrients and proper sleep, which can affect the quality of milk the child receives. When it comes to formula, you want to ensure you have a nutritious formula that's properly mixed.

Get the First Check Up

An essential part of newborn care in New Port Richey, FL, is the first check-up and follow-up visits during the first year. You should schedule your child's first visit with the pediatrician a few days after birth. At this initial screening, your doctor will give the baby their first immunizations, check their weight and vital signs, and measure the length and head circumference. It's also the time for parents to consult with the pediatrician about questions or concerns about feeding, sleeping, problems that may have happened at birth that can affect the child's development, etc. 

Having a new baby is an exciting time for any parent. You can feel like a world win from the birth to getting the baby adjusted to the home the first week. That is why it is essential to have a caring pediatrics staff available, which you have at A to Z Pediatrics. Dr. Lokesh, Dr. Desai, Dr. Porcelli, and our physician assistant are here for your newborn care needs in New Port Richey, FL, so call 727-375-5242 for more information.