If you find that you need some additional help with the baby, there are several options to consider.
Your baby today
Sometimes babies develop skin rashes or irritations and sore
bottoms around this time and, if this is the case, you can call your
pediatrician for advice on how to relieve these minor problems, which
may require a prescription.
Adjusting to life
with a newborn is difficult for some mothers, especially those
recovering from cesareans. Sleep deprivation may make it hard to handle
all of the new responsibilities. If your husband took time off during
the first week, you may want another pair of hands to take his place. If
you’re able to hire a babysitter or visiting nurse for a few hours a
day, you’ll get some relief. If not, consider asking a good friend or
relative for assistance. But before calling in any favors, make sure
that the person you ask will actually provide the type of help you need.
Do you want someone to care for the baby so you can nap, make dinner,
or run errands? Do you want someone to cook or clean while you tend to
the baby? Do you need someone to get groceries and pick up your
preschooler? Be clear about your needs so your helper isn’t upset that
she won’t get to hold the baby the whole time she’s helping.
Your baby loves to be
stimulated. He can focus about a foot away and will watch a simple
object such as a mobile. Babies soon recognize familiar faces and he
will love to watch you talk. Being part of your daily life provides
plenty of stimulation. Tell him what you are doing and your plans for
the day, read him stories, and listen to music together. When he is
awake, give him time on his tummy to develop strength in the arms and
prevent a “flat” head, a common problem in babies who spend a lot of
time on their back. Always supervise your baby while he is on his tummy.
Sleeping babes
Newborn babies have a least two naps each day
and many simply rotate sleeping and eating throughout the day. In the
early days, you’ll find that there is little routine to your baby’s
sleep pattern since he can’t go for a long period without being fed.
You will probably find
that your baby isn’t fussy about where he naps and that this can be
wherever it’s convenient for you, whether this is in the car, the
stroller, or baby sling. If you’re at home, you may prefer to put your
baby somewhere quiet for a nap, such as in his crib, or you might want
to keep him close by in a playpen or on a towel on the floor, if this is
safe.
Many babies find being carried close in a baby sling deeply comforting and may sleep happily while being transported.
Tips for baby care
Nails and scratching
Babies’ nails grow
quickly and are also very tricky to cut! However, to stop your baby from
scratching her face, you’ll need to keep them trimmed. Be careful not
to rip the edge of the nails since this can cause infection.
You can buy special baby scissors, although these may not cut the nails short enough to prevent scratching.
Using a soft emery keeps them short.
You may want to put mittens on your baby until she is past the scratching stage.
