You’ve waited those nine long months, the baby has finally arrived and you are in love. But it’s all so confusing; the cries, the baby noises, the gas, and yes, the sleep. And everyone tells you something different. I just received this email from a new mom and wanted to share in case you have the same questions.
Dear Blythe,
I can’t stop staring at my newborn baby. She is so adorable and I am very excited to be a new mommy! But everyone is throwing so much advice at me I don’t know what to do. I hope you can tell me what’s true and what isn’t. It’s all so confusing.
Thank you so much. I am so happy you’re here to help.
Best regards,
Allison
Dear Allison,
Motherhood can be a little confusing in the beginning. And sometimes it seems that you’ve got figured it out and then the baby does something different. And on top of the sleep deprivation, you have well-meaning friends and relatives sharing their thoughts and advice 24/7.
But remember, everyone loves a baby and only wants to make your life easier.
Here are the top five questions I receive almost weekly:
1. Do newborns cry hysterically if they have a wet or poopy diaper?
Honestly, there is not a signal that tells them to cry when this happens. Most newborns don’t realize that they need a diaper change unless they have a diaper rash or have had a circumcision. If your baby is crying, check for the following:
- She needs to burp.
- She is still hungry.
- She is too hot or cold.
- If you use disposable diapers, check that the elastic isn’t pinching her legs.
- Make sure she doesn’t have a piece of your hair wrapped around her finger, toe or if you have a boy, his penis.
If all of these check out, she may just be having a cranky period so try these:
- Pick up baby and walk outside. This change of scenery should help within minutes.
- Put her in the swing. But don’t forget to buckle her in.
- Warm a receiving blanket in the dryer and swaddle her in it.
2. Do all newborns like to be swaddled?
The answer is yes. It is comforting and simulates that safe feeling of being in the womb. Many babies like to be swaddled with their arms out but still love that wrapped-up feeling around their tummies.
3. Do I have keep the house totally quiet when my baby sleeps?
No, no and no! Getting your baby used to the noise of the household from day one will ensure that she can fall asleep any time and anyplace. Remember, the womb was a very noisy place!
4. Once the umbilical cord falls off, does my baby need a bath each day?
The answer is no. Every other or third day is fine unless they have a messy, up-the-back diaper blowout. Let’s face it; they really aren’t going anywhere to get dirty.
5. Does my baby need diaper cream or powder on her bottom at each diaper change?
While diaper cream can add an extra barrier on the skin, it's really not necessary. And unless your baby has a rash, powder just gets wet and lumpy. Thoroughly cleaning the diaper area with a wipe or washcloth at each change is just fine. But do remember, anytime you do put something on baby’s skin, put it in your hand and then apply. Shaking powder or squeezing lotion directly on her skin is not safe. You don’t want her to inhale the powder or touch the lotion.
Remember, each baby is different. And when you do receive that unsolicited advice, say “thank you” and do what works best for you and your baby. Enjoy your little miracle and smile knowing you're the best mom in the world!
For more great tips visit http://www.mybestparentingadvice.com
Blythe Lipman, President and Founder of Baby and Toddler Instructions is a nationally recognized baby and toddler expert, parenting consultant and author of three award-winning books, which are available on Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com and Audible.com
Blythe is also a teacher, caregiver, keynote speaker, blogger and host of Baby and Toddler Instructions, a weekly internet talk radio show for parents each Wednesday, 11amEST on Toginet.com
