Neonatal Care Tips for Newborn Baby

The maximum care and attention that a baby needs is when it is newly born. Take a look at these basic neonatal care tips to give your newborn baby the attention and care it needs.

Diapering the Baby

The first thing that you must know about newborn care is diapering the baby, which is not easy as it may sound. It is important to know the right way of diapering a baby starting from getting the necessary supplies, laying the baby down, grasping the baby, freshening the baby up to cleaning the baby. You must also know if you and your newborn baby are comfortable with using cloth diaper or disposables.

Bathing the Baby

Bathing your newborn baby may turn out to be your favourite activity with him. Before getting your baby to bath, you must get your supplies, know the right way of undressing the baby in the bathroom and freshening and cleaning the baby. You must know the kind of soaps that can be used on your baby's delicate skin and hair, etc.

Breastfeeding your Baby

Breastfeeding is as important for you as it is for the baby. The time that you breastfeed your baby, you may make eye contact with your child and develop a bond. While you breastfeed, it is important that you know the different breastfeeding positions and choose the right one, place the baby appropriately, etc.

Holding the Baby

There are different ways in which a baby can be held. You must learn how to comfort your child by manipulating the way you hold him/her. The different ways of holding a baby include belly hold, shoulder hold, hip hold and sling holds.

Everyday Baby Care Tips

• Give your baby sponge baths until the baby's umbilical cord has fallen off.
• Bathe the baby every two or three days unless your doctor tells you to give your baby a bath every day.
• Prevent diaper rashes by changing the diapers frequently, especially after the baby has wet or soiled the diaper.
• Do not use a pacifier until the baby has learnt to breastfeed well.
• Trim your baby's finger nails with the help of a baby nail clipper or nail file to ensure that she doesn't scratch her face or eye.
• Do not prepare baby formula using hot water right from the tap. Instead, use cold water as that will reduce the baby's exposure to lead from tap water.