It is very common for new parents to worry about how to keep their baby healthy and safe, after all, it is a huge responsibility. You can trust that the pediatric specialists at UPMC Magee-Womens in Central Pa. are just a phone call away and are prepared to answer any questions that you may have during your baby's first weeks of life.
It is important that you respond promptly to your baby’s crying during the first few months. You will not spoil your baby by giving her too much attention. A warm, dry baby with a full belly will usually be content. However, if your baby continues to cry, there are a number of strategies you can use to soothe her, including:
Swaddling, or the technique of securely wrapping your baby in a blanket, can be comforting to newborns. Make sure that when you swaddle your baby, her legs are able to bend up and out at the hips. Wrapping your baby tightly with her legs straight can cause problems with hip joint development.
It is essential that you purchase a baby thermometer for your baby’s nursery. When you call your baby’s physician, one of the first questions you will be asked is whether your baby has a temperature.
You can take your baby’s temperature under his arm (axillary), or you can use an ear thermometer. Before your due date, you might want to check with your physician for advice on which type of thermometer to purchase.
Before going home from the hospital, you should ask a nurse to show you how to take your baby’s temperature.
Taking precautions and anticipating risks ahead of time will help you keep your baby safe in his first months of life. You should follow a number of safety practices, including:
When it comes to health care for you and your family, UPMC is here. It's easy to find the right doctor, health screenings, programs, classes, and more.
Contact UPMC in central Pa.