Newborns may be small in size, but there are some things about them that you may need to know to not be caught off-guard.
1. How to tell if the newborn is getting enough milk
It’ll be quite easy to measure the amount of milk baby is drinking if the little one is being bottle-fed, but if you’re nursing, it might be tricky. Your baby’s weight will be the best indicator of how well he or she is thriving during infancy. Your pediatrician will help you out with this one. In the meantime you can also gauge if baby’s getting enough milk through the number of wet/soiled diapers — expect about five to six wet diapers a day with one or two soiled ones.
2. There’s no need to be worried about that ‘soft spot’
Some new parents find themselves worrying about the soft spot on their newborn’s head — It’s the opening in the skull, also called the fontanel, which allowed your baby to maneuver out of the birth canal. It may seem to pulsate because it’s located right below blood vessels in the brain, but it’s not untouchable! It’s perfectly fine to touch that spot when you’re caressing your baby’s head or combing baby’s hair!
3. It’ll take a few months for deliberate smiles and giggles!
Till then, you’ll have to contend with a little being who can seem very demanding! It can be quite an emotional upheaval, but always remember that your baby feels secure and comforted whenever you or your partner hold, hug, or cuddle him in your arms, no matter how his facial expression seems to say otherwise!
4. Crying is the only way for a newborn to communicate
A newborn’s piercing wails may seem an earful, but for now, it’s the only way for the little one to communicate that he’s either hungry, uncomfortable, cold or scared. It won’t be like this for long though, so rest assured that in time, you’ll be able to sense when your baby is about to cry of hunger or about to fuss due to a wet or soiled diaper, etc.
5. Skin issues are normal in newborns
Rashes, baby acne, and dry patches are all quite normal in newborns and unless your doctor advises it, you do not have to do anything about it for these will disappear on their own. If you do however feel like addressing your baby’s skin issue, go with reputable organic brands of baby care products for these are made from safe and pure ingredients that will not aggravate the condition of baby’s delicate skin.
