What is included in newborn care?
Some newborn care services are provided in the hospital immediately after your child’s birth. Most services, however, are delivered when you bring your newborn in for those first few important visits to the pediatrician.
Your baby’s doctor will begin by collecting information about your child’s:
- Length, weight, and head circumference
- Vision
- Hearing
- Sleep habits
- Reflexes
- Nursing or formula consumption
The baby gets a full physical exam, giving the doctor an opportunity to evaluate many aspects of your newborn’s development.
What to Prepare for Your First Visit
Here are a few things that we highly recommend you prepare for before your first newborn checkup.
- BRING YOUR DISCHARGE PAPERS FROM THE HOSPITAL
- Write down a list of any questions or concerns.
- Common questions new parents have include:
- What can I do to get my baby on a regular sleep schedule?
- Is my baby eating enough?
- Is spitting up normal?
- What is cranial cap?
- What developmental milestones should I see in the coming weeks?
- Does my baby’s stool look normal?
- Should I put anything on my newborn’s skin rashes?
- How do I care for my baby’s umbilical cord?
- When should I schedule my next appointment?
What are some other benefits of newborn care?
Most babies are born healthy so newborn care focuses on tracking development and ensuring your child has the proper vaccines at the right time. However, don’t underestimate the benefit of having a trusted medical professional to turn to if questions or concerns arise.
No topic is off-limits for new parents. If you think something just doesn’t look or seem right, call the office to ask questions or to set up a visit. Sleep habits, eating patterns, and even which gear is safe for transporting or feeding your newborn are among the many valid questions.
Postpartum depression is also an important topic. If you’re having trouble adjusting to the arrival of your baby, or if you feel unsettled, upset, or overtaxed by parenthood, don’t hesitate to come in and speak with the doctor. Postpartum depression is a treatable issue and has nothing to do with your value as a mother. Please speak to your baby’s pediatrician or call one of these services. Baby Blues Connection - 24-hour information/message line: 1-866-616-3752. Postpartum Support International 1-800-944-4PPD.
