This is a sponsored guest post.
Having a new child is both a fantastic and scary experience, especially for first-time parents. With so much to remember, it can be hard to make sure you are doing everything possible to protect your precious baby. In this article, we are going to be talking about some of the tips and tricks that can protect the healthcare of your baby, while making your life as a new parent easier! For more newborn health tips, click the link.
Handling Your Newborn:
- When they have just been born, newborn babies can be susceptible to viruses and bacteria. Always remember to wash and sanitize your hands before handling your baby; this includes any visitors that may be coming as well!
- When carrying your baby, always remember to support the neck and head, this is the same for if you are lying your baby down.
- NEVER SHAKE A BABY! This can cause brain bleeding and death and is highly dangerous.
Changing Diapers:
- Babies will roughly need around ten changes a day, so it is important to decide if you want to use reusable cloth diapers or store-bought ones.
- Always remember to keep your supplies in reach, so that you don’t need to leave your baby on the change mat while you search for something.
- Nappy cream, diapers, wipes, and fasteners should be within reach.
- When wiping, remember to wipe front to back to decrease the risk of urinary tract infections.
- Remember to apply nappy cream generously, if a rash has occurred.
- If the rash continues or worsens after three days, remember to call your doctor as it may need prescription medicine if it is a fungal infection.
- For the first month, sponge baths should be used when cleaning your baby so that the umbilical cord falls off, and the naval can heal.
- Make sure to have all your supplies ready, including towels, diapers, cream, bath wash, and clothes.
- Always ensure that the water is lukewarm, and support the baby’s head with one hand. With the other, you can use this to wash and clean the baby.
- Remember always to make sure your baby is dry, to prevent the risk of infections and nappy rash.
Feeding Baby:
- A newborn baby usually needs to be fed every 2-3 hours; it is essential to remember that you may need to wake your baby to ensure that they have enough to eat.
- Remember to monitor the baby’s intake if being bottle-fed. If breastfeeding, check for signs to ensure your baby is feeding enough, this includes checking to make sure they are producing enough wet nappies and gaining weight.
- Make sure to burp your baby after feeding if they tend to be gassy or upset during the feeding process.
Safe Sleep:
- To reduce the risk of SIDS, make sure to always place the baby on their back, with their feet towards the bottom of the cot.
- No heavy blankets, pillows, or stuffed animals should be placed in the cot, as this can lead to suffocation.
- Alternate the position of your babies head each night to prevent the development of a flat spot.
Now, remember, you got this! It isn’t easy becoming a new parent, but feel confident that you are amazing, and that you can handle anything.
