Category: Common Questions & Concerns (Newborn)

As a parent, your concerns about COVID-19 may increase. As newborn immune systems grow and develop, they may be more vulnerable to respiratory illnesses. <a href=”vancouverdivision.com”>Speak to your provider</a> about any specific precautions you should take to protect yourself, your newborn and your loved ones. For more information, visit our ‘go-to’ COVID-19 resources page.

Did you know that babies don’t need a bath every day? Regardless, keeping them clean and dry is important. Washing their face, neck, hands, skin folds and diaper area daily will be key. For tips, tricks and other useful resources on how to care for your baby’s skin, check out our useful resources as well as the HealthLink BC website.

Newborns need a lot of sleep (and perhaps, right now, so do you!) While sleeping may seem to be a newborn’s main objective, it is a prerequisite to help them grow, develop and avoid overtiredness. Letting your baby nap during the day can actually help them sleep better at night, so if you are, don’t worry about keeping them awake. When it comes to sleep safety, remember that the safest place for your newborn to sleep is on their back in an empty crib, cradle, or bassinet. For more information and tips on newborn sleep, we’ve highlighted key resources for you to explore. (And if you happen to have a little nap while reading them, we’ll understand!)

Breast/chest feeding can be a powerful experience for you and your baby, with benefits that include bonding, providing essential nutrients, and promoting overall health. However, breast/chest feeding is not always easy or possible for everyone, and that’s okay. Whether you choose to breastfeed, formula feed, or a combination of both, what matters most is that you are providing your baby with the nourishment and care they need to thrive. Our resources will help you make informed decisions about feeding your baby and address any challenges you may face. Remember, there is no one right way to feed your baby, and you deserve support and compassion as you navigate this journey.

Since it’s quite common, you may have heard of jaundice, a condition where a newborn baby’s skin or the whites of their eyes may look yellow. When red blood cells break down, a coloured compound called bilirubin is made, which the liver should eliminate as waste. When the liver doesn’t remove bilirubin from the body fast enough, a yellow tint can occur, meaning that there’s too much of it in the blood. While this can be quite harmless and common for newborns during their first few days of life, sometimes there may be other considerations that require closer monitoring and/or treatment. Your maternity provider will likely have this top of mind too. If you’d like to explore more, we’ve compiled some reliable resources here.