How to Care for a Newborn Baby

Now that you have survived pregnancy and given birth to your baby, you will need to prepare yourself for the coming days. The days are going to be tough; and the nights, tougher. As your child is not in the womb anymore and not receiving diet from placenta, you will need to feed him/her with caution. Plus, the protection that the womb provided from infections and viruses is not there anymore. So, you will need to be prepared for the tough times ahead. Your newborn will need far more care and protection than you can imagine. Below are few points that you need to keep in mind while handling newborns. Before handling your newborn, make sure your hands are clean. Wash hands (up to elbows) with a soap or use a hand sanitizer. You might be carrying germs that could be too strong for your baby's underdeveloped immune system. Your love is appreciated, but you will need to take care of the cleanliness at every point in time. Instructions apply to everyone who handles the baby! Neither your baby has a sense of balance at this stage, nor are the bones developed enough to a significant level. You will need to provide support to baby's head and neck every time you handle him/her. Cradle the neck and support the head every time you pick the baby, carry the baby upright, or lay him/her down. Never shake your baby vigorously because of your emotions. Whether it is your love or frustration, shaking your baby can cause brain hemorrhage and even death, at times. Instead, tickle your baby gently on the feet or cheeks. Limit any rough or bouncy activity. If highly important, make sure the baby is fastened securely (not too tightly) into the carrier, car seat, or stroller. Your newborn is just a few days or few months old, and is not at all ready to play with you. Jiggling him/her on your knee or throwing him/her in air is not at all recommended. It can be fun for you, but infant can get traumatized. Keep your baby protected from extreme temperatures. Make sure your baby does not feel excessive heat or cold at any point. Try to maintain a comfortable temperature in your room. Babies generally fall off bed when they start rolling. Make sure you are always present along with the baby. Cover bedsides with pillows properly to prevent falling.Read more about How To Care For A New Bo .