5 Essential Habits New Parents Must Adopt Immediately After Baby’s Birth to Avoid Frequent Doctor Visits

New Delhi: Welcoming a newborn is a joyous occasion, but it also comes with responsibilities. In the first few days, following certain habits can significantly protect the baby from infections, ensuring fewer visits to the doctor, say experts.

Expert Advice: Dr. N.S. Krishna Prasad, Consultant Pediatrician and Neonatologist at Ankura Hospital for Women and Children, emphasizes that adopting a few simple habits can safeguard your newborn’s developing immune system.

1. Hand Hygiene Is Crucial
Before touching your baby, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Whether feeding, changing diapers, or holding the baby, clean hands prevent exposure to infections such as cold, cough, fever, or stomach-related illnesses. Keep the baby away from sick individuals.

2. Prioritize Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding provides essential nutrition along with immunity-boosting antibodies and protective cells. It helps prevent respiratory and gastrointestinal infections, giving the baby both nourishment and protection.

3. Care for the Umbilical Cord
The umbilical area is vulnerable to germs. Keep it clean, dry, and untouched. Avoid powders, oils, or traditional home remedies on the cord, and ensure diapers do not rub against it. Consult a doctor if redness, swelling, or foul odor develops.

4. Bathing Guidelines
Newborn skin is extremely delicate and prone to dryness. Avoid full baths for at least the first 24 hours. Initially, sponge baths are sufficient until the cord falls off. Bathing two to three times a week using fragrance-free cleansers is recommended.

5. Skin-to-Skin Contact
Also known as Kangaroo Mother Care, skin-to-skin contact helps regulate the baby’s body temperature, supports breastfeeding, and stabilizes breathing. It is particularly crucial for babies born with low birth weight.

Additional Home Precautions

• Keep the home smoke-free.
• Limit visitors in the first few days.
• Avoid incense sticks, sprays, or fragrances.
• Wash baby clothes and bedding with mild detergent.
• Keep rooms well-ventilated.

Feeding Equipment Hygiene
If using bottles or breast pumps, clean all parts immediately after use and dry them thoroughly to prevent bacterial growth.

When to Consult a Doctor
Seek medical attention if the baby shows:

• Fever or abnormal coldness
• Refusal to feed or poor milk intake
• Excessive sleepiness or irritability
• Rapid breathing or unusual sounds
• Yellowing of eyes or skin
• Redness or discharge near the umbilical area

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only. Navbharat Times does not take responsibility for accuracy or outcomes. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for guidance on your baby’s health.