Newborns experience various normal conditions that might cause concern for new parents, but these issues typically resolve on their own without treatment.
Peeling skin: In full-term newborns, the skin may not peel in the first 1-2 days. Peeling usually begins around day 2 and is often observed on the hands and feet. This condition will resolve on its own within 2-3 weeks after birth and does not require treatment.
Jaundice: Jaundice is a common condition in newborns, typically appearing between days 2-4 after birth. It occurs because the liver is still maturing and cannot efficiently process and eliminate the yellow pigment from the blood. To prevent jaundice, keep the baby with the mother to breastfeed frequently, as breast milk helps stimulate bowel movements. If jaundice is severe, consult a doctor for proper management.
Spitting up: It’s normal for newborns to spit up a small amount of milk after feeding. This is because the lower esophageal sphincter is not fully developed, so it may not close completely, causing some milk to come back up. The milk may appear curdled due to the action of stomach acids. To reduce spitting up, try burping the baby or keeping them in an upright position for about 30 minutes after feeding. This position helps keep the milk in the stomach.
Burping techniques:
- Sitting on lap: Hold the baby upright on your lap, with your thumb and index finger supporting under the chin and the rest of your fingers under the armpits. Gently pat or rub the baby’s back until they burp.
- Shoulder hold: Hold the baby over your shoulder with their chin resting on your shoulder. Gently pat or rub their back until they burp.
Sneezing: Sneezing is a normal reflex in newborns and can occur frequently without any illness. It’s usually due to dust or dry mucus irritating the nasal passages. Sometimes, excessive use of baby powder can also cause sneezing.
Startle reflex (Moro reflex): The startle reflex, or Moro reflex, is common in all newborns. It is a normal response to sudden noises or movements, indicating a well-functioning nervous system. Newborns may flail their arms and legs, open their hands, and then bring their arms together. This reflex usually diminishes by 6 months of age.
Hiccups: Hiccups are common after feeding due to the diaphragm’s still-maturing function and the expansion of the stomach with milk and swallowed air. Hiccups generally resolve on their own after burping or holding the baby upright for a short time.
Care recommendations when you return home:
- Feeding: Breastfeed every time the baby cries, based on their demand, starting with 5-10 minutes per side. If there’s a lot of milk, let the baby feed longer until they are full. Burp the baby every time you switch sides or after feeding. If the baby sleeps longer than 3-4 hours, wake them for feeding. If using formula, burp the baby after every ounce until the bottle is finished. Clean bottles by boiling or steaming them for 20 minutes.
- Bowel movements: If the baby is breastfeeding well, they will have yellow, loose stools frequently, sometimes after every feeding.
- Vaccination site care: The baby will receive a tuberculosis vaccination before leaving the hospital. Check the vaccination site on the left shoulder after about 3 weeks for a red bump or pus-filled spot. Do not scratch it. If the pus-filled spot bursts, clean it with a cotton ball soaked in 70% alcohol. If the spot becomes very large, consult a doctor.
- Umbilical cord care: The umbilical cord stump can be exposed to water. It typically falls off between days 5 and 1-2 weeks after birth. Clean the area frequently, especially after baths, with a cotton ball soaked in 70% alcohol. Continue cleaning until the area is dry.
- Bathing: Bathe the baby daily with warm water and shampoo their hair once a day.
- Supplemental feeding: Consult a pediatrician for advice on additional feeding needs.
