Newborn Care and Nutrition

The best nutrition for a newborn baby is breast milk. Breastfeeding provides an unparalleled opportunity for the baby's healthy growth and development. It is a biological and traditional form of nourishment. It is also an important factor in forming the emotional bond between mother and baby. Breast milk alone meets all of the baby's needs, including water, for the first six months. It is primarily a clean source of nutrition, free from the challenges of preparation and heating, and is always ready for use. It is easily digestible. With its functional components and live cells, it protects the baby from illnesses. Breastfeeding mothers also experience lower rates of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, osteoporosis, and anemia. The composition of breast milk is not fixed; it is independently regulated based on the baby's needs, regardless of the mother's diet. For example, the milk of mothers who have given birth prematurely differs from that of mothers who have had full-term births. The first milk produced in the first seven days, known as colostrum, is yellowish and thicker. It is rich in protein, antibodies that protect the baby from diseases, minerals, and vitamins. In the following days, the protein content of breast milk decreases, while the levels of lactose and fat increase. Towards the end of breastfeeding, the fat content in the milk increases (hindmilk), providing the baby with a feeling of fullness and protecting against obesity. The most important factor for the production and continuation of breast milk is the baby's sucking. The time it takes for the milk to become rich in fat during breastfeeding depends on the baby's sucking strength. Therefore, to ensure the baby receives enough of the fat-rich hindmilk, the baby should be breastfed until they naturally release the breast. The production of breast milk increases with the correct technique and frequent feedings, in addition to the baby sucking. During breastfeeding, the mother should sit comfortably, hold the baby close to her body, and ensure that the baby’s head and body are aligned on a straight line. The baby should grasp not only the nipple but also the surrounding dark area. Even if the breasts are not full after birth, it is crucial to start breastfeeding immediately to stimulate and continue milk production. Night feedings in the early months increase milk production. Fatigue and lack of sleep are factors that negatively affect milk production, so the mother needs help and support. Breastfeeding the Baby: In the first few weeks, breastfeeding is irregular, and the baby should be fed whenever they want. Ideally, the baby should be breastfed from both breasts for equal durations, but this does not always happen. If the baby nurses from only one breast at a time, the next feeding should be from the other side. Burping after breastfeeding helps reduce colic pain. The average breastfeeding duration is 15-20 minutes, and the average interval between feedings is 2-3 hours. After the fourth week, babies usually nurse every 3 hours. Night sleep intervals may extend to 4-5 hours. If the baby is sleeping, they should not be awakened for feeding. There is no need to give water to a breastfed baby.

Newborn Baby Care

General characteristics of a newborn baby:

In the first 48 hours, your baby’s hands and feet may appear more purple than normal. They are usually cooler than expected.

There may be swelling around the eyelids, hands, and feet. Birthmarks may be present on the eyelids, forehead, and nape of the neck.

Due to hormones passed from the mother, the breasts may become swollen, and a milk known as "witch’s milk" may be produced. This usually resolves by itself within a few weeks. Female babies may also have white vaginal discharge or bleeding due to the same hormonal reasons.

For male babies, the testes are located in the scrotum or in the canal. Swelling may occur in the scrotum.

A purple-colored Mongolian spot on the sacral area is a normal finding.

White, pearl-sized bumps, known as milia, may appear on the chin and around the nose.

In excessively warm environments, vesicles may appear on the armpits, neck, and body due to blocked sweat ducts, which is a normal occurrence.

The first urine is passed immediately after birth or within 24 hours. The first stool, known as meconium, is sticky and dark in color and is usually passed within the first 24 hours. After the first two or three days, the stool lightens in color. Babies who are breastfed will have golden yellow stools and may defecate 7-8 times a day. They also urinate 5-6 times a day.

In the first two weeks, an increase in the bilirubin substance in the blood can cause the skin and the whites of the eyes to appear yellow. If it is high, phototherapy treatment may be needed.

Newborns lose 5-10% of their birth weight in the first week. They typically regain their birth weight within 7-10 days.

Room Temperature: Normal body temperature ranges from 36.5-37°C. If the baby’s body temperature is over 37.3°C under the armpit or 37.5°C rectally, a doctor should be consulted. A room that is too hot or overdressing the baby can increase body temperature. The room should not be too hot; 22-24°C is ideal.

Clothing: Clothing should be made from 100% cotton fabric. Onesies with snap fasteners are preferable. For normal temperatures, a tank top, onesie, gloves, and socks are enough. The baby should not be overdressed. One extra layer than what the parents are wearing is enough. Tags in clothes can irritate the baby’s skin and should be cut off.

Umbilical Care: Until the umbilical cord falls off, it should be cleaned 1-2 times a day with 70% alcohol. When putting on a diaper, the umbilical cord should be left outside the diaper.

Eye Care: Eyes should be wiped from the inside out with a sterile gauze pad moistened with boiled lukewarm water. If there is excessive discharge or crusting, a doctor should be consulted.

Baby’s Sleeping Position: The baby should be placed on its side or back without bending the neck. A pillow should not be used. Do not cover the baby with a heavy blanket or duvet. The bed should not have pillows or too many covers.

Bathing: The baby should be bathed every day once the umbilical cord falls off. The room temperature should be 26°C. Shampoo should not be used more than twice a week. Bathing and the subsequent massage can help relax the baby, reduce gas pains, and promote better sleep.

Nail Care: If the nails are not too long in the first days, they don’t need to be cut. If the nails are long and scratching the baby’s face, they can be trimmed with baby nail scissors.

Mouth Care: If there are white spots in the mouth that do not disappear, it may be thrush, and a doctor should be consulted. To prevent thrush, hand and nipple hygiene should be carefully maintained.

Diaper Care: The baby’s diaper should be checked before each feeding and whenever the baby seems upset. It can be cleaned with lukewarm water and cotton. To prevent diaper rash, the baby’s bottom should be kept dry and clean. Diaper rash cream can be used intermittently. For girls, diaper care should be done from front to back to prevent urinary tract infections.

Gas Pains: Due to the underdeveloped digestive system, babies may experience gas. They may cry and pull their legs toward their stomach. This typically reduces by the time they are three to four months old. The most common cause of gas is incorrect breastfeeding technique. Air swallowing can occur if the baby is not properly latched. The baby may also be affected by what the mother eats. Always make sure to burp the baby after feeding.

Vomiting: It is normal for babies to vomit a little after feeding or while burping. However, if the vomiting is forceful, green, or if there is a decrease in breastfeeding or abdominal swelling, the baby should be taken to a doctor immediately.

Sneezing and Hiccups: Sneezing is a reflex to clear droplets that have entered the nose, and hiccups occur when the diaphragm is stimulated. If a baby has hiccups, briefly breastfeeding can help stop the reflex.

Traveling: Always use a car seat. The car seat can also be used as a baby carrier.

Visits: The baby should avoid crowded groups and should not be kissed. During the winter months, upper respiratory infections caused by viruses are common in enclosed spaces.

Vaccination Record: After being discharged, the first doctor visit should occur one week later. Be sure to bring the vaccination record and track the baby's vaccinations.