FAQ on Newborn Baby Care

After you and your baby are discharged from the hospital, you will have your baby all to yourself. Nothing is more exciting, yet may be completely terrifying, than the first few days you spend at home alone with your baby, especially if he is your firstborn. Understandably, you may have some concerns about taking care of your newborn at this stage:
 

1. Why is the newborn baby always crying?

This is the only way your baby can communicate! They cry usually because they are too hot, too cold, hungry, sleepy, ill, tired or in need of a nappy change. You will learn how to distinguish between all these with time.

2. Is it wind?
You can prevent baby colic by winding your newborn half way through a feed. Try chamomile tea if you are breastfeeding.

3. Is the baby putting on enough weight?
Baby will lose weight in the first few days but will regain them after a week.
 

4. How to bathe the newborn baby?

A special baby bath tub with a non-slip bottom will help as you can hold your baby with one arm and wash him with the other.
 

5. Why does newborn baby stay awake at night?

Newborns cannot distinguish between day and night. You can help to oriented him by keeping noise and light minimal at night and avoid playing with him as bedtime approaches.

6. What is that rash?
Newborns usually get red spots and rashes that come and go for no apparent reason. Generally, avoid over-heating or over-dress your baby. Use soap-free bath products (for example, lactacyd) which are gentle on sensitive skin.

7. Is it safe to leave newborn baby when he is asleep?
Before your do so, ensure that your baby and the room he is in are not too hot to cold. Buy a baby monitor so that you can listen for his cries when you need to be in another part of the house.
 

8. Are the bowel movements of the newborn baby regular?

Your newborn will pass black, tarry stool (called “meconium”) in the first couple of days. He will dirty his nappy quite frequently especially if he is breastfed. However, if he seems constipated, offer him more water but do not dilute his feeds or feed him sugar water.

9. Can I take newborn baby out?
Yes but make sure you go out prepared. Try to avoid letting everyone carry or touch your baby as this may expose him to all kinds of germs. Bringing your baby out may even get you additional benefits, such as the license to jump queue at banks! You also find yourself making friends with other mummies more easily!

10. Will I be able to cope?

After spending enough time with your new baby, you will be able to read his signals and respond accordingly. However, if in doubt, seed advice and assistance from someone who is familiar with baby care.
 

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