Newborns are fragile, so it’s only natural to feel a bit unsure about how to care for your newborn, especially in the first month. Your pediatrician can help. The pediatricians at Mid-Kansas Pediatric Associates provide a full range of medical care for children of all ages, including newborns. They have three convenient office locations in east and west Wichita, and Derby, KS.

What You Need To Know About Newborn Care in the First Month

The first month is a critical time for you and your newborn. Pediatric care of your newborn begins early, usually within 2 to 5 days of birth. During the first newborn visit, your pediatrician will:

• Perform a physical examination of your newborn, checking for medical issues or concerns
• Measure and record your baby’s length, weight, and other vital information
• Answer questions or discuss concerns you have about caring for your newborn
• Provide the first doses of immunizations your newborn needs

When you return home with your newborn, it’s helpful to know a few general guidelines about newborn care. These are a few tips to keep in mind:

• When feeding your newborn, your baby will want to feed every 2 to 3 hours if you are breastfeeding, or every 3 to 4 hours if you are feeding your baby formula
• When your newborn is sleeping, your baby will want to sleep at least 16 hours a day at first
• You need to always place your baby on his or her back to sleep, to help your baby breathe more easily
• When changing your newborn, your baby’s stool will be black at first, changing to dark green, and then to yellow
• If your newborn’s stool is red, call your pediatrician because it could be a sign of blood in the stool
• When bathing your newborn, use mild soap and lukewarm water, making sure to carefully clean the folds of your baby’s skin
• You need to avoid bathing your newborn too often, because it can dry out your baby’s skin

Want To Know More About Newborn Care?

To find out more about newborn care and what to expect during the first month, call the pediatricians at Mid-Kansas Pediatric Associates. You can reach them at:

• East Wichita, KS, by calling (316) 634-2000
• West Wichita, KS, by calling (316) 773-3100
• Derby, KS, by calling (316) 719-2001