As you embrace the joy of cradling your newborn in the New Year of 2024 and relish the precious moments of growth, you might experience a hint of apprehension about handling this new responsibility and providing the best care for your baby. Fret not, as we have consulted a pediatrician to address your parenting concerns by outlining seven essential aspects of newborn care.
In a discussion with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Prakash Vaidya, Consultant-Paediatrics at Fortis Hospital in Mulund, shared the following recommendations:
Embrace Breastfeeding: Initiating breastfeeding is the foremost essential that every newborn deserves, and every mother should strive to offer. Babies who are exclusively breastfed enjoy lifelong benefits. Despite common concerns such as undergoing a C-Section, it is crucial for the baby to latch onto the mother’s breast at the earliest opportunity. Efforts are made nowadays to facilitate this bonding moment right after delivery, even for C-section births, promoting early breastfeeding and maternal-infant bonding.
Address Feeding Challenges: Many first-time mothers encounter initial feeding and latching issues, which can be resolved with patience and proper assistance. It is advisable to avoid introducing bottle feeding early on, as this may lead the baby to reject breastfeeding. Seeking help from a Lactation Consultant is recommended to overcome these challenges effectively.
Umbilical Cord Care: Proper cleaning and maintenance of the umbilical cord are essential practices that every parent should learn. Using spirit or an equivalent solution for cleaning is recommended to keep the cord dry and prevent infections.
Screening Tests: Conducting basic screening tests early on is crucial to ensure the baby’s well-being and detect any potential issues that could affect their future health. Tests like the hearing screen (OAE test) and TSH (Thyroid levels) are vital and should ideally be performed within the first week of the baby’s life.
Immunization: Protecting the baby from preventable diseases is paramount. Administering essential vaccines like BCG, Hepatitis B, and OPV within the first 24 hours of birth is recommended. In case of delays, vaccination should be carried out promptly to safeguard the baby’s health.
Avoid Harmful Practices: Parents should refrain from following harmful traditional practices, even if they are rooted in cultural beliefs. Practices like applying oil in the ears or nose, exposing the baby to smoke, or giving certain traditional remedies should be avoided to ensure the baby’s well-being.
Interpreting Non-Verbal Cues: Understanding and responding to the newborn’s non-verbal communication is a crucial skill that parents must develop to provide appropriate care and meet their baby’s needs effectively.
By incorporating these seven essentials into your parenting routine, you can ensure a promising start in life for your precious little one.
- Early bonding
- Breastfeeding
- Avoiding bottle feeds
- Cord care
- Screening tests
- Immunization
- Avoiding harmful practices