Newborn babies require a lot from their parents – being a mother to a baby is definitely a full-time job! To keep them healthy, safe and active use the tips below as a guide, and be sure to speak to your doctor or midwife for further information.
Breastfeeding:
– It is important to breastfeed shortly after birth. This early yellowish breastmilk (called colostrum) contains antibodies crucial to the heath of your baby.
– Breastfeeding is important to building the mother-child relationship. It also helps prevent further bleeding and begins the production of breast milk.
– The baby should only drink breastmilk for the first 6 months.
– If you have any questions about how to breastfeed correctly, consult your doctor or midwife and they will happily help you.
Neonatal Care:
– Make sure you give birth in a clean environment and maintain your personal hygiene during labor and the delivery. This will help to keep both yourself and the baby safe.
– Make sure the umbilical cord is kept clean and dry, and leave it uncovered.
– Do not put any herbal mix on the umbilical cord. If it is dirty, wipe it clean with a fresh cloth soaked in cooled boiling water.
– Make sure the baby defecates.
– Make sure you receive antibiotic eye ointment from your doctor or midwife. This will help prevent potential eye infections for your baby.
– Request a K1 injection for the baby. This is to prevent the rare chance of the baby bleeding after birth.
– Request a Hepatitis B immunization, BCG (tuberculosis vaccine) and oral polio drops for the baby within 24 hours after birth.
Keeping the baby warm:
– Don’t bathe the baby until 6 hours after the birth.
– Wrap the baby in a dry baby blanket to help keep the baby warm and comfortable. Change the cloth often, especially if it gets wet or soiled.
– Never place the baby in a cold or windy place.
– When the baby’s weight is less than 2500 grams, keep the baby warm and safe using the Kangaroo Care method.
Talk to your doctor or midwife if you need help doing this.