Bringing A Newborn Baby To Your Home

As I went to accompany my niece and the newborn from the hospital to home, I was filled with memories of my feelings as I took my children home over 30 years back. I had been a carefree young woman who had now the responsibility to look after a little bundle that was my very own blood and flesh. I was filled with anxiety coupled with a sense of pride as I walked out of the hospital with the newborn; these emotions are especially true with first born.

My knowledge gained from my children’s pediatrician as well as my experience made me impart some of it to Durga, my niece.

It is quite possible that a newborn could feel anxious having left the maternity ward and come home to entirely new surroundings. He/she could cry more out of curiosity or fear; the mother should not get worried. She should hold the baby touching her skin so the baby has a feeling of comfort and love.

Next many new mothers may carry a misconception that it is best to feed the baby when he/she cries; there could be various reasons why a baby cries and experience could soon teach a mother to recognize them. Your baby could be uncomfortable, need some winding, could be hot or even need a nappy change. Do not worry much if the baby has had its full within 2 hours and has been changed into a clean nappy. Many babies in the first few months go through what is called a “restless sleep.” It is also possible that the baby just needs some comforting.

I can very well understand the anxiety faced by mothers when a newborn cries during the night; just be calm and assure yourself that it will soon stop. It would be futile to leave the baby crying in bed; reduce the your and the baby’s stress by placing him/her in a baby carrier or a wrap and go about your chores like preparing dinner and setting the table. Your cradling the baby will soon assure him/her of your contact. Remember to be active, so you have the strength to be calm and cradle the baby always.

Your baby would be having more frequent feeds both at the breast and the bottle when just a few months; it is best to switch to 4 bottle feeds when the baby finishes 180 ml bottles and is about 11lbs to 13.2 lbs. You could introduce solid foods once the child is 4 months and has 4 full bottle feeds. Remember to burp your baby after each bottle feed or feed of solid foods.

Last but most important it is very necessary to protect your baby from illness during the first few months, especially winter. Protect the baby from germs and infections by always washing your hands well before holding the baby and also ensure you wear protective masks if you are not well. It would also greatly help to avoid taking your baby to public places and to travel on public transport.    

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