5 Crucial Newborn Baby Care Steps You Need to Follow for Your Kid's Health

Becoming parents for the first time is both exciting and challenging at the same time. Nothing can make you happier than holding your little bundle of joy. However, the initial days after the birth of the newborn are the most challenging ones. This is because you will experience hormonal and emotional changes after delivery. Taking care of a little baby is indeed a big responsibility and you need to stay cautious. Children are vulnerable in their initial days after birth. Post-pregnancy care is also equally important that should never be ignored.

With the aim of raising awareness on newborn baby care, Newborn baby Care Week is celebrated every year between November 15 and November 21. Spreading awareness is significant for the proper development of children across the world. It is important to know everything about key activities right from vaccination schedules to changing diapers. You need to follow proper hygiene and cleanliness so that the baby does not fall sick. Statistics reveal more than 75% of deaths in newborns can be prevented by maintaining proper hygiene [1].

To guide you on the right path, here are a few immediate newborn care steps to take after your baby’s birth.

Take Proper Care of the Umbilical Cord

The umbilical cord is the lifeline that connects you and your child and provides the required nutrition. This cord is cut during delivery. However, a part of it still remains in your child’s navel. It falls off naturally within a few weeks or months. After this, your child’s navel may look sore and you may notice blood too. There’s nothing to worry about as it will heal on its own within a few days. Ensure that this area is always kept clean and dry to prevent infections [2]. Never try

to pull off that part as it needs to fall on its own. Use water to clean the area and always pat it with a dry and soft cloth. Avoid applying oil or any lotion to the area. This is one of the most essential steps of immediate care of newborn babies that you should never skip!

Breastfeed Your Child for 6 Months

According to WHO, you need to exclusively breastfeed your child for the first six months [3]. After this, you can continue breastfeeding until the age of two years along with solid food intake. Breast milk contains antibodies and all essential nutrients required for the growing baby. This helps your child develop immunity and fight infections. Colostrum is produced during the first few weeks after childbirth and it helps in the overall development and growth of your child. Amongst several essential newborn care steps, it is the most significant of the lot.

Bathe Your Baby Using Unscented Soap in Plain Water

Until the naval part heals, your child needs to be given a sponge bath. Always use warm water and avoid using soap or any other baby wash. If you want to use soap, you can go for mild unscented soaps. Make sure that you clean your child well after using soap. This prevents any kind of rash or irritation on your baby. Do not use cotton swabs to clean the nose and ears of your baby. While washing the genitals, use only plain water. After a bath, wipe the child with a clean and dry towel.

Monitor the Vaccination Schedule

It is important to get your child vaccinated on time to build proper immunity. Check with the doctor and keep tabs on the vaccination routine. Getting your baby vaccinated provides protection from a range of deadly infections. If required, go for optional vaccines too after consulting with your doctor. After birth, a child has to undergo a number of tests like a jaundice test to ensure there are no health issues.

Change Your Child’s Diapers at Regular Intervals

This is also one of the vital steps of newborn care you must pay attention to. During the initial months, your child will soil their diapers at regular intervals. You must be proactive about cleaning your child and constantly watch for a dirty diaper. Keeping your baby in soiled diapers

can cause diaper rash and infections. While changing the diaper, clean the area well with warm water and dry it completely before putting on a new one.

While parenting is a beautiful journey, it can tend to be stressful and tiresome at times. All you need to do is enjoy every moment with your baby by giving all the care and attention. During this process, never neglect your health. After all, only healthy parents can take proper care of their baby. As a mother, if you find yourself struggling with issues after your delivery, speak with top gynecologists on Bajaj Finserv Health. Book an appointment with a specialist near you and clear all your parenting and newborn baby care doubts