Newborn Care 101: Helpful tips from Elevated Health, Direct Primary Care

Bringing a precious newborn into your world is nothing short of a miracle. But it’s also a journey that comes with its own unique set of challenges, questions, and moments of uncertainty. 

We understand that the well-being of your newborn is a top priority. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll share essential tips for new moms to help you navigate in this exciting journey with confidence.

If this is your first time or if you’re unsure if you’re doing the job right, just know that they may seem very fragile. Here are a few basics to remember:

• Keep Those Hands Clean: Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer before touching your baby. Newborns have delicate immune systems, making them susceptible to infections. Ensure that anyone handling your baby also has clean hands.

• Gentle Support for the Head and Neck: When carrying your baby, cradle their head and neck securely. Support their head when holding them upright or laying them down.

• No Shaking, Ever: Never shake your baby, whether for play or out of frustration. Shaking can lead to serious brain injuries or even be fatal. If you need to wake your baby, try gentle methods like tickling their feet or softly blowing on their cheek.

• Secure in Carriers, Strollers, and Car Seats: Always fasten your baby securely in a carrier, stroller, or car seat. Avoid any activities that could be too rough or bouncy.

How to properly feed my baby?

The foundation of your newborn’s health begins with proper feeding. Whether you choose to breastfeed or use formula, ensure that your baby is getting the nourishment they need.

• Breastfeeding or Formula Feeding: Decide whether you’ll breastfeed or use formula based on your preference and circumstances. Both options provide essential nutrition for your baby.

• Feed on Demand: Newborns have small stomachs and need frequent feedings, usually every 2-3 hours. Pay attention to hunger cues, such as rooting or sucking on fists, and feed your baby when they signal they’re ready.

• Proper Latching and Positioning: Ensure your baby latches onto the breast correctly or drinks from a bottle comfortably. Seek guidance from a lactation consultant or healthcare provider if you encounter difficulties.

• Burping and Spitting Up: Burp your baby gently after feedings to release any trapped air. Some spitting up is normal, but if it becomes excessive or forceful, consult your pediatrician.

What Should I Know About My Baby’s Sleep?

• Newborns sleep a lot, but their sleep patterns can be irregular. Create a soothing bedtime routine to help your baby establish a healthy sleep schedule.

• Safe Sleeping Environment: Ensure your baby sleeps in a safe crib or bassinet with no loose bedding or toys. Always place your baby on their back to sleep to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Not using blankets, quilts, sheepskins, bumpers, stuffed animals, or pillows in the crib or bassinet will help reduce the risk of suffocation.

Diapering and hygiene essentials

Keep your newborn clean and comfortable by changing diapers regularly. Use gentle baby wipes and hypoallergenic products to prevent skin irritation.

• Change your baby’s diaper regularly, typically every 2-3 hours, to keep them dry and comfortable. Also, change the diaper immediately after bowel movements.

• Gentle Cleansing: Use mild, fragrance-free baby wipes or a damp cloth to clean your baby’s bottom during diaper changes. Be gentle to avoid skin irritation.

• Diaper Rash Prevention: Apply a thin layer of diaper cream or ointment as a preventive measure to protect your baby’s skin from diaper rash. If a rash develops, consult your pediatrician for guidance.

Don’t forget to do regular check-ups

• Vaccination Schedule: Stay up-to-date with your baby’s vaccination schedule as recommended by your pediatrician. Vaccinations are crucial for protecting your baby from preventable diseases.

• Scheduled visits to your trusted doctor or direct primary care clinic like Elevated Health are essential. Regular check-ups will allow your doctor to monitor your baby’s growth and development.

And lastly, stay sane

For new moms, self-care is equally important. It’s vital to emphasize the importance of postpartum care and maintaining your mental and emotional well-being during this life-changing period.  Ensure you’re getting enough rest, nutrition, and emotional support to navigate the challenges of motherhood.

• Make sure to seek Support: Postpartum can feel overwhelming, so reach out to family and friends for assistance. Don’t hesitate to ask for help with chores, cooking, or looking after the baby to alleviate some of the pressure.

• Get adequate rest and Sleep: Prioritize rest whenever possible, even if it means napping when your baby does. Adequate sleep is crucial for your physical and emotional recovery.

• Embrace Self-Care: Take time for relaxing baths, reading, or any activity that helps you unwind. Remember, taking care of yourself is taking care of your baby!

• Share Your Feelings: It’s okay to have mixed emotions. Share your feelings with a trusted friend or a mental health professional. Talking about your experiences can be therapeutic.

• Professional Help if Needed: If you’re struggling with postpartum depression or anxiety, seek professional help without hesitation. Your mental health is of utmost importance for both you and your baby.

New moms, your well-being matters just as much as your baby’s. Postpartum care isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity.

For families in Huntington Beach, Irvine, Newport Beach, Orange County, and surrounding communities, Elevated Health is the dedicated Direct Primary Care clinic that is always ready to support you and your family’s healthcare needs.

Direct primary care offers members the peace of mind to meet with their doctor for any reason without worrying about the cost. In addition, members also have the advantage of same-day and next-day scheduling, wholesale discounts on medication, and 24/7 access to medical information. To learn more about the benefits of direct primary care, click here! To join our membership, click here.