Bringing Home a New Baby

Many new parents are surprised when they discover how much care a newborn baby needs and how little sleep they’re able to get when not caring for the baby.

It’s perfectly normal for a newborn to need to eat every 2 ½ to 3 hours around the clock.  By the time you feed them, change their diaper and put them back down, it’s time to feed them again, and the whole cycle starts again.

In these first few days, a mom who’s breastfeeding will produce colostrum, the first milk, which is the perfect  food for the baby. Some moms have been told to pump this and throw it away.  This is not a good idea.  Babies need colostrum

Colostrum has many protective antibodies that helps protect the baby from infection. It also helps the baby pass their meconium,and frequent breastfeeding helps stimulate the mom’s milk supply.

Here’s a tip for cleaning up the meconium.  Try baby oil, instead of water, it wipes away much easier.

Breastfeeding is a new skill for both mom and baby. Proper positioning is key to prevent sore and cracked nipples.  If you’re having difficulty, get assistance from a certified lactation consultant.

For moms who are using formula, offer 2 – 3 ounces at each feeding. It’s ok, if there’s some left in the bottle. In fact it’s best if you let them decide when they’ve had enough.  We don’t want to overfill their tummies, otherwise they might spit up. Don’t feel like they have to finish every drop. If they are gulping down a full bottle, be sure to burp them well, then offer another ounce to see if they’re still hungry.

The #1 question that every parent asks is: How do I know if my baby is getting enough to eat.

In general, for breastfed babies, before the milk comes in, you should see 1-3 wet diapers a day and 1-5 stools.

For babies who are formula fed and after the moms milk comes in, you should see 5-8 wet diapers and 1-5 stools each day.

If you’re concerned, ask your health care provider to weigh your baby to make sure they’re gaining enough weight.