The first weeks with a newborn bring many questions. These basics help most families.
Feeding
Feed on demand, usually every 2 to 3 hours. Breast milk alone is enough for the first six months unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Cord care
Keep the cord stump clean and dry and let it fall off on its own.
Yellow skin (jaundice)
Mild yellowness is common. See a doctor if the yellow colour appears after day 3, spreads, or the baby feeds poorly or is very sleepy.
See a doctor urgently if
- Fever, fast breathing or poor feeding
- Fewer wet nappies than usual
- The baby is unusually sleepy or irritable
A first check-up within a week of birth is advised.
Feeding your newborn
Breast milk alone is enough for the first six months. Feed whenever the baby shows hunger cues, usually 8 to 12 times a day. Burp the baby after feeds and keep them upright for a few minutes. A baby who passes urine at least six times a day is usually getting enough milk.
Sleep, bathing and skin
Always place the baby on the back to sleep on a firm surface. Sponge-bathe until the cord falls off, and keep the cord dry. Mild jaundice in the first week is common, but yellowing that spreads to the legs or lasts beyond two weeks needs a check.
Call the doctor if
- Fever above 100.4 F, or the baby feels unusually cold
- Poor feeding, very sleepy or hard to wake
- Fast breathing, vomiting green fluid, or a red, discharging cord
Dr. V. Mounika Reddy provides newborn care and follow-up visits so that parents feel supported in the first weeks.
This is general information and does not replace an examination. Consult Dr. V. Mounika Reddy at Swastha Multispeciality Clinic, Vaidehi Nagar, Vanasthalipuram.
Read more: Paediatrician in Vanasthalipuram | Our doctors
Book a visit: Call or WhatsApp +91 83417 94993. Walk-ins welcome.
Feeding your newborn
Breast milk is the best food for the first six months, offered on demand, usually 8 to 12 times a day. Signs of good feeding include regular wet nappies, steady weight gain and a settled baby after feeds. If you have trouble with latch or supply, ask for help early rather than waiting.
Sleep, bathing and cord care
- Always place the baby on the back to sleep, on a firm surface
- Keep the umbilical cord stump clean and dry; it usually falls off in one to three weeks
- Bathe with lukewarm water and a mild baby soap; keep the baby warm
- Wash your hands before handling the baby
Newborn jaundice
Yellow colouring of the skin is common in the first week and often settles, but deep or spreading yellowing, or jaundice with poor feeding or sleepiness, needs checking. Never rely only on sunlight; have your baby assessed.
Warning signs and check-ups
Call your doctor if your baby has fever, fast or laboured breathing, refuses feeds, vomits repeatedly, is very sleepy or limp, or has fewer wet nappies. Plan regular weight checks and vaccinations. Dr. V. Mounika Reddy provides newborn check-ups at Swastha Clinic, Vanasthalipuram.
Learn more about our newborn care in Vanasthalipuram, or call 83417 94993 to book a consultation.
