Newborn Care FAQs

Having a baby is a major life change. Your little one is fragile, so you may be anxious about proper care and protection. However, you're not the only parent asking Dr. Ramesh Kadewari the same questions shortly after birth. Here are some FAQs about newborn care in Easton & Bethlehem, PA.

When Should I Schedule The First Appointment?

You should schedule your newborn baby to see the pediatrician sooner than you may think. Ideally, you should bring your baby in a few days after birth. For most people, the average time of the first appointment will take place about three to five days after delivery.

When Do Immunizations Start?

Remember, your child is very fragile and new to the world. Therefore, proper newborn care in Easton & Bethlehem, PA, involves immediate protection from disease and viruses. At birth, your baby will receive the hepatitis B vaccine. The time they reach two months, four months, and six months old, they will receive vaccinations for the rotavirus. Your child will get the polio vaccine at 2 months of age. By the six-month mark, the CDC recommends that babies have the COVID-19 vaccine.

How Should I Bathe the Little One?

Your baby does require cleaning. Make sure to be very gentle with bathing and hair washing. Ideally, you can bathe your newborn about two to three times weekly in warm water and mild baby soap. According to the World Health Organization, you should not apply anything to the umbilical cord if it's still attached and keep it dry.

How Often Will They Need Food?

You should expect to have your newborn on a frequent eating schedule. Whether breastfeeding or using formula, typical feeding should take place about every two to three hours. Newborns can't fully verbalize with words that they're hungry. You'll have to learn what their hunger cues are. Some babies may start using sucking motions, others will get very fussy and start crying. Since young babies have a very odd sleeping schedule, be prepared to feed them day or night.

Whether you're a new parent or have added an addition to the family, taking care of your little one is essential to their development. For help with newborn care in Easton & Bethlehem, PA, call (610) 861-8830 for the Bethlehem, MD, office and (610) 252-3042 for the Easton. MD, one. Dr. Kadewari and the staff at Pediatric Medical Center of Lehigh Valley look forward to seeing you.