[dropcap]E[/dropcap]very new parent feels anxious about caring for a newborn baby, but if you take the steps to ensure optimal baby health and safety you can relax and bond with your newborn baby. Here, you’ll find advice and information on everything from taking your newborn baby out of the house for the first time to establishing good sleep habits to knowing when to call the doctor.
Newborn screening tests: Which ones your baby needs and why
A newborn screening test is one that’s done on a baby at birth to check for a certain disease or condition. U.S. state law requires an assortment of screening tests to be performed on all newborns, healthy or otherwise. Here, find out what your baby will be tested for – and when and where.
When to call the doctor
It’s normal for new parents to worry about their baby’s health. Even if you can see that your newborn is strong and sturdy, babies are small and vulnerable and need our protection. But how do you know when something’s really wrong?
When can I take my baby out of the house for the first time?
Many parents worry about taking a newborn outside the house. But there’s no medical reason not to take a healthy baby out of the house. Fresh air and a change of scenery can be good for people of any age, including babies. It’s exposure to people who are ill that can cause a baby to become sick.
Hidden household dangers for newborns
Newborns are too small to get into much trouble on their own. They’re not ready to stick buttons in their mouth just yet. Still, you need to make sure your baby has a safe place to sleep. And you’ll want to make sure you’re bathing him and changing his diaper in a safe place.
Baby sleep basics: Birth to 3 months
Newborns sleep up to 18 hours a day in the first week and up to 16 hours a day by the time they’re a month old. But most babies don’t stay asleep for more than two to four hours at a time. This is a tiring schedule for you. Learn how you and your baby can get plenty of rest.
Should people wash their hands before handling my newborn?
It’s completely appropriate – and not rude – to make everyone wash their hands before touching your baby, and our expert can tell you why.
