Newborn Care in Rochester, NY

Dr. Bandari holding two infants

Welcoming your baby home is an exciting time in your lives. Your baby’s first visit to our office usually takes place 1-3 days after you are discharged from the hospital. In the first few weeks, you and your baby will learn a lot from each other, and you will become more comfortable caring for your newborn. Our whole team at Legacy Pediatrics is here to support you and your family through this transition. 

Remember, we are here to answer any questions you may have about your baby!

Preparing for a newborn may involve:

  • Baby-proofing your home
  • Assembling baby essentials
  • Setting up the nursery

As you prepare your home to welcome a new baby, be sure to keep dangerous items out of reach. This includes securing cabinets, covering electrical outlets, and removing potential hazards. You will want to purchase diapers and items that a new baby will need. You can set up a nursery or a safe place for the baby to sleep when he or she arrives. Having everything prepared will make the first few weeks easier as you transition together.

One of the most important aspects of newborn care is proper feeding and nutrition. If you need help with understanding this, your doctor can help, or there are trained specialists that care for new moms.

You may choose to feed your baby through:

  • Breastfeeding
  • Formula
  • Pumping
  • Bottle feeding

As you prepare to feed your baby through breastfeeding, you may want to learn about milk supply and latch techniques. If you choose to bottle feed, learn about bottles, schedules, and how to hold your baby while feeding. There are formula feeding guidelines, including proper preparation and storage. The most important aspect to remember when feeding a baby is not the method in which you choose, but that your baby is receiving the proper nutrition.

As you bring a new baby home, you will quickly learn about diapering and hygiene.

Newborn care for keeping a baby clean includes:

  • Diapering and hygiene
  • Changing diapers
  • Bathing your baby
  • Caring for the umbilical cord
  • Post-circumcision care
  • Skin care

You will want to have plenty of diapers and wipes on hand. There are many sizes of diapers, so be sure to look at the weights and sizes, depending on the diapers you choose. There are also many types of wipes. Pay attention to your baby’s skin, as it may rash or become irritated by some products. As you bathe your baby, be sure to practice safe habits around water. Use gentle soap and warm water as you support the head. Use special care around the umbilical cord area and penis for circumcised boys.

Sleep is an important part of newborn care, as you establish a new routine together. You will be surprised how often a newborn will need your attention, including in the middle of the night.

Be sure to talk to your doctor about:

  • Sleeping patterns
  • Creating a sleep routine
  • Safe sleep practices
  • Dealing with sleep regressions

Your baby needs to sleep on his/her back with a firm mattress free from any blankets. Establish a consistent bedtime routine to help your baby calm down and distinguish morning from night. Be prepared for sleep disruptions as your baby grows. Sleep regressions are common and temporary.

As you care for your baby, stay up-to-date with checkups and screenings. This can help your doctor detect anything outside of the norm, and it can provide you with the emotional support you may need as you care for your new little one.

The health and safety of a newborn includes:

  • Newborn health checks
  • Vaccinations
  • Hearing screening
  • Jaundice monitoring
  • Screening for heart defects
  • Heel prick for blood samples
  • Safety precautions
  • Car seat safety

Your baby will have newborn health checks starting in the hospital. You can also schedule regular check-ups with your pediatrician to monitor your baby’s growth and development. Discuss any concerns you have about your baby’s health. Stay updated on your baby’s immunization schedule to protect them from preventable diseases. Install safety gates, use car seats correctly, and keep small objects out of reach to ensure your baby’s safety.

Foster a strong bond with your baby as you nurture attachment and provide comfort.

You can bond with your baby through:

  • Skin-to-skin contact
  • Early interactions
  • Tracking milestones

Talk, sing, and read to your baby regularly. Engaging with them encourages cognitive development and language skills. Talk to your doctor if you suspect any delays or are worried about any developmental concerns.

Remember, newborn care is important, but you must also care for yourself.

Talk to your doctor for help with:

  • Self-care for new parents
  • Coping with postpartum changes
  • Seeking support

There are resources available to help you as you deal with life with a new baby. The schedules, demands, lack of sleep, crying, hormones, and other elements can damage your physical and emotional well-being. Both parents can experience emotional challenges postpartum. Be open about your feelings and seek professional support if necessary.