Newborn Care at Home: A First-Week and First-Month Guide for New Parents

The first few weeks with a newborn are precious — and a little nerve-wracking. Here's what's normal and what to keep an eye on.

Newborn Feeding Basics

Newborns feed often — roughly every 2–3 hours, including at night. Look for signs your baby is feeding well: steady weight gain over the weeks, 6+ wet nappies a day after the first week, and settling after feeds. If breastfeeding feels difficult, that's common and help is available — you don't have to struggle alone.

Safe Sleep Guidelines

Newborns sleep a lot (16+ hours a day) but in short stretches. Always place your baby on their back to sleep, on a firm flat surface, without loose bedding. Day-night confusion is normal early on and settles with time.

Understanding Newborn Jaundice

Mild yellowing of the skin/eyes is common in the first week and usually harmless. But if the yellow spreads to the arms/legs, your baby is very sleepy or feeding poorly, or it appears in the first 24 hours, get them checked promptly.

Umbilical Cord Care

Keep the umbilical stump clean and dry; it usually falls off within 1–2 weeks. You don't need to apply anything unless your doctor advises. Redness spreading around the base, swelling, or a bad smell needs a check.

When to Call the Doctor

Contact your pediatrician if your newborn: has a fever or feels cold, is feeding very poorly, is unusually sleepy or floppy, has fast or laboured breathing, or if you're simply worried. Trust your instinct — it's always okay to ask.

Looking After Yourself

Rest when you can, accept help, and remember that the early weeks are demanding for parents too. If you feel persistently low or overwhelmed, please talk to someone — it matters.

This article is general information for parents, not medical advice. Every child is different — please consult your pediatrician for guidance specific to your child.