Breastfeed your baby when needed. This may be every hour to two hours or every five hours. Sit comfortably while breastfeeding.
Do not sit your baby up with a bottle in their mouth, and do not put them to bed with a bottle as it can lead to choking.
Make sure the baby burps at least once during feeding and once at the end to avoid stomach pain.
It is normal for the baby to spit up a little milk after feeding or when burping.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is the best for your baby as breast milk contains all the nutrients they need along with antibacterial agents that protect against illness.
The amount of milk your breasts produce may seem insufficient at first, but it is enough for your baby’s needs at that age. Continue breastfeeding, and your milk supply will increase in a few days.
Let your baby empty one breast before switching to the other. Your baby might not want to nurse from both breasts at each feeding, which is normal. Alternate the breast you start with each feeding.
When your baby finishes nursing, they will release the breast on their own. If you need to remove the breast, gently place your finger in the corner of your baby’s mouth to break the suction.
Apply a little breast milk to your nipple before and after each feeding.
Bottle Feeding
Your doctor will advise you on the type of formula and the quantity your baby needs.
Always wash your hands with soap and water before handling the bottle.
Use a clean bottle and nipple. Clean bottles and nipples with hot water and soap, then boil them for 10 minutes and let them cool.
Prepare the formula according to the instructions on the container using boiled, cooled water.
Sit comfortably with your baby, keeping their head higher than their stomach. Tilt the bottle so the nipple is full of milk.
Help your baby burp at least once during feeding and once at the end.
Rinse the bottle and nipple immediately after feeding and discard any leftover milk.
Juice and Solid Food
Your baby usually does not need any food other than breast milk or formula during the first four months. Solid foods and juice can upset their stomach. Your doctor will advise you when to introduce solid foods.
Crying
Your baby may cry for attention or need a diaper change. Hold and talk to them for a short while; they may go back to sleep.
Sleeping
Babies sleep most of the time between feedings. When putting your baby to bed, ensure they sleep on their back or side to reduce the risk of SIDS.
Do not let your baby sleep more than five hours straight during the day to ensure they sleep well at night when you need rest.
Swaddling
Avoid tight swaddling, as it can cause hip dysplasia and breathing difficulties.
Baby's Bath
Use lukewarm water and check the temperature with your elbow.
Dry your baby thoroughly, paying attention to all folds and joints. Take care of the umbilical cord area and keep it clean.
Use a little oil if the skin is dry. Do not insert cotton balls or anything else into your baby’s ears or nose; just wash the outer parts.
Umbilical Cord Care
The umbilical cord typically dries and falls off within 10 days to two weeks. Do not pull or remove it.
Keep the cord dry at all times and wash your hands before changing the diaper. Fold the diaper below the cord area to expose it to air.
A small amount of bleeding after the cord falls off is normal, but consult your doctor if it has a foul smell or if bleeding persists for more than two days.
Baby's Bowel Movements
During the first week or two, your baby may have a bowel movement after each feeding. After that, they may have four to five bowel movements a day or once every two days.
If your baby does not have a bowel movement for two to three days and seems uncomfortable, consult your doctor.
Jaundice
Some healthy babies may have yellow skin and eyes in the first few days. Inform your doctor if you are concerned.
Sneezing, Hiccups, and Colic
Frequent sneezing and hiccups are common and not a cause for concern. Consult your doctor if you think your baby has a cold.
Colic can cause discomfort during feeding. Consult your doctor if colic seems to be an issue.
Diaper Changing
Change your baby’s diaper as soon as it becomes wet or soiled to prevent diaper rash.
Wash the diaper area with lukewarm water and mild soap, then dry thoroughly before putting on a new diaper.
If diaper rash occurs, keep the area clean and dry. Consult your doctor if the rash persists.
Doctor Visits
Schedule regular check-ups to monitor your baby’s health and growth. Bring your baby to all scheduled visits.
Vaccinations
Vaccinations are essential for protecting your baby from various diseases. Ensure your baby receives all scheduled vaccinations. The nurse will provide a vaccination schedule when you leave the hospital. Follow it diligently.
