Your baby changes a lot in the first month — tiny cues mean big needs. This page gives simple, practical newborn advice you can use right now: feeding, sleep, warning signs, and how to handle medicine safely.
Breastfeeding or formula are both fine — feed on demand for breastfed babies and follow bottle instructions for formula. Watch for hunger cues: lip smacking, rooting, fussiness, or quick hands-to-mouth movements. Aim for 8–12 feeds per day in the first weeks if breastfeeding; formula-fed babies often feed every 2–4 hours.
Newborns sleep a lot but wake often. Expect 2–4 hour stretches; longer sleep builds after a few months. Create a simple routine: dim lights, quiet sounds, swaddling if it calms them. Always place babies on their back for sleep and keep the crib bare of loose blankets, toys, and pillows.
Diaper rash: change diapers quickly, clean with water, and use a zinc-oxide cream when redness appears. Cord care: keep the stump dry and exposed; it falls off in 1–3 weeks. Jaundice (yellow skin or eyes) is common. If the baby is unusually sleepy, not feeding well, or jaundice appears bright, call your pediatrician — some babies need a simple blood test or light therapy.
Fever in a newborn is serious. Any rectal temperature 38°C (100.4°F) or higher in babies under 2 months requires an immediate call to your doctor or emergency care. Do not give adult fever medicine without a doctor’s instruction.
Dehydration signs include fewer wet diapers (less than six a day by week 2), sunken soft spot, or very little tear production. If you see these, contact your pediatrician quickly.
Keep regular checkups: newborns need a first pediatric visit within 48–72 hours after leaving the hospital and several visits in the first two months. Vaccines start at 2 months — ask your doctor for the schedule. Always use a rear-facing car seat in the back seat for every trip; install it tightly and follow the manufacturer's guide. Simple safety steps cut a lot of stress and save time.
Many common over-the-counter meds are not safe for newborns. Only give medicines prescribed by your child’s doctor. If a medicine is needed, confirm the correct dose by weight — not by age — and use a syringe or dropper for accuracy.
Vitamin D is commonly recommended for breastfed babies (400 IU daily) — ask your pediatrician. For infections or specialized drugs, follow your doctor’s instructions and ask about side effects to watch for.
If you need to buy medicine online, use trusted pharmacies and require a prescription when needed. SuperPill covers how to spot legit online pharmacies and safe buying tips. Never use leftover adult meds or advice from unverified forums for a newborn.
Trust your instincts. If the baby’s color, breathing, feeding, or responsiveness seems off, don’t wait. Call your pediatrician or emergency services. Newborn care is a lot, but clear steps and quick calls when unsure make it manageable.
Newborns are more vulnerable to skin infections due to their delicate skin and developing immune systems. This article explores the causes, symptoms, and treatments of common skin infections in newborns, offering parents valuable insights and tips to protect their little ones. Discover how to spot early signs and effectively manage these concerns to ensure your baby's health and comfort.
