The first month after birth is crucial, with high-impact medical interventions preventing up to 79% newborn fatalities, according to an article by the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF). The ongoing Coronavirus pandemic makes it all the more important to take protective measures since infants too are at risk of contracting COVID-19. New Delhi, in particular, has witnessed a sudden jump in coronavirus cases, as of September 2020. So, besides regular newborn care in Delhi, consult a pediatrician to know about any special care you might need to take. Below are some tips for newborn care during the first month of birth.
Take Turns to Handle the Child
Insufficient sleep, leading to extreme tiredness in parents is common in the first month. Doctors at the best child hospitals in Delhi suggest that parents plan shifts. While the mother can change diapers, bathe and put the infant to sleep on one day, the father can take over for the next day. In fact, the morning and evening duties can also be divided, so that each parent receives equal rest. This is crucial to stay alert around the child, identify symptoms and actively cater to emergencies, if any.
Notice the Sleep Patterns
Doctors at the top child care hospitals recommend 14 to 17 hours of sleep for the baby in the initial few weeks of birth. Otherwise, you will notice irritability, inability to suckle, fussing and crying. Keep note of the hours when your baby is fast asleep and try to ensure that there is no disturbance during those hours. When the child starts to yawn or rub their eyes, make sure to create a quiet and soothing ambience, in which they can sleep peacefully. Pat and sooth them constantly till they are fast asleep.
Be Mindful of Their Immunization
Read the vaccine charts, understand the side effects and visit the best pediatric hospitals in Delhi to get your little one immunized. While Hepatitis B is given within 12 hours of birth, DTaP, Hib and Polio vaccines are also administered within the initial two months. Monitor conditions like troubled breathing or high fever. Get in touch with the pediatrician immediately for quick medical interventions.
Check for Bodily Changes
The child’s eyes might look crossed since the eye muscles are not fully developed yet. Hearing is also not completely stable in the first few weeks. However, smell, taste and touch senses are completely functional and help the baby recognize their mother right from birth. You will notice the fists are tightly closed and the genitals are slightly swollen. They might also cry from time to time but try not stress about it. Learn about your baby from the best child hospitals in Delhi to differentiate between normal growth and potential health problems.
Even with the utmost care, it is only natural for children to fall ill. The good news is that even for serious conditions, paediatric surgery, using the latest technologies can help your baby lead a happy and healthy life.