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Caring for a newborn baby is both exciting and overwhelming. Newborns spend their first few weeks acclimatizing to the new environment. While the baby is crying a lot, it is a good time to create a bond between mother and child. Before you get to week 10, when it gets easier, you need to keep going because you’ll remember the good moments more than the bad ones.
Here are four important things any new mom can benefit from by mentally preparing for…
Holding a newborn
You need to hire caregivers from the beginning to determine if they have the qualities you need to raise the child in your absence. If you don’t spend a lot of time around newborns, their vulnerability can be a little scary. Consider the following tips:
- Use your palms to support your baby’s head and neck
- Avoid shaking your newborn
- Avoid using a carrier or stroller for the first four months
- Choose a medium-firm mattress
Because newborns do not have a strong immune system, they are at high risk of infection. While relatives and friends want to help, don’t be afraid to put some restrictions. Make sure everyone handling the baby has clean hands.
Changing Your Baby’s Diaper
Before changing diapers, make sure you have everything you need so you don’t leave baby unattended. You will need clean diapers, fasteners, ointments, and baby wipes. Follow these steps while changing a diaper:
- Gently place the baby on the changing surface
- Remove, remove, and dispose of the diaper in a trash can
- Clean the baby and apply ointment
- Wash your hands and use hand sanitizer
After removing the diaper, wash the baby’s genitals and apply ointment to heal or prevent rashes. Stock enough diapers to avoid frequent trips to the store. Maintaining a high level of hygiene helps the baby sleep well and stay healthy.
Bathing and Dressing Your Baby
While bathing your baby, it is important to keep the umbilical cord dry to prevent infections. To prevent scards, use your hands to mix cold water with warm water. Avoid using a common tub and buy an infant tub for your baby. When bathing your baby:
- Use warm water and test the temperature with your elbow
- Use regular (non-antibacterial) soap
- Wipe the baby with a hypoallergenic, absorbent, and ultra-soft towel. Mizu Baby towels are perfect because they eliminate 99.9% of bacterial growth and are designed to keep your baby safe
- Put the baby in warm clothes
- Use light and breathable fabric in summer to avoid overheating
Avoid lotions, antiseptics, and shampoos while they are contain chemicals which can harm your baby’s skin. Most of these products contain allergens and irritants that can cause eczema, alter hormone levels, or interfere with your baby’s normal development.
Breastfeeding as a New Mom
Breast milk has the perfect mix of protein, vitamins, fat, and everything a baby needs to grow. Because it strengthens your baby’s immune system, it reduces the risk of allergies and infections.
Here’s what you need to know about breastfeeding:
- Breast milk provides perfect nutrition for babies
- It contains antibodies that fight bacteria and viruses
- You need to breastfeed your baby at least eight times a day
- Breast pumps are ideal for working mothers
- Breast pumps allow the caregiver to control the timings when feeding your baby
Pumping your breasts can be beneficial for the baby because it stimulates milk production. You can buy or rent a quality electric breast pump. Today, most health insurance covers provide breast pump coverage with TRICARE. For best results, follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to use the pump.
Wash your pump flanges and breast milk storage containers in warm, soapy water. Rinse equipment thoroughly and allow to dry completely before storing.
Keep your equipment clean by washing the tubing, flanges, and milk storage containers. Rinse everything well and let it dry. Store the pump in a sealed container to prevent dust or any other form of contamination. You can store refrigerated breast milk for six months.
Take Care of Your Baby While at Work
Balancing your baby’s needs and your job starts with getting the right caregiver. If you find a caring and trustworthy caregiver, you need to build a healthy relationship while you focus on the baby’s needs. Take the right steps to make sure your baby is fed, bathed, and kept warm while at work.
About the Author
Maggie graduated from Utah Valley University with a degree in communication and writing. In her spare time, she likes to dance, read, and bake. She also enjoys traveling and finding new brunch locations.
