With a first-born baby, many parents suddenly find themselves in a world of worries and fears. There are some typical worries with newborn babies, as the little creature first has to adapt to the new world.

Typical concerns for newborn babies

Umbilical cord. The umbilical cord stump usually remains attached for up to 10 days after birth. During this time it must be regularly washed, dried and disinfected with alcohol to prevent infection. The stump dries out on its own and then falls off. If it has not fallen off after ten days or if there are signs of inflammation, you should go to the paediatrician.

Spitting up. Babies often spit up to remove excess milk or nappies from their bodies. Usually, spitting up is not a cause for concern unless the baby vomits convulsively after each feed.

Flatulence. Gases in the digestive tract often cause stomach cramps, which is why the baby starts to cry. Therefore, a baby should be gently massaged or patted on the back after each feed to ease burping.

Diarrhoea. In the first few days, the baby's faeces are almost black and mushy. After that it becomes yellowish. As the baby only eats liquid food, it is not surprising that the faeces are also soft. If the baby has greenish and very liquid faeces, it may have diarrhoea and become dehydrated very quickly. Therefore, if your baby has diarrhoea, you should give them some plain water or baby tea to make up for the loss of fluids. If the baby has a dry mouth and a sunken fontanella, you should go to the paediatrician immediately.

Miracle bum. Urine and faeces irritate the sensitive baby skin on the bottom very easily, even if nappies are changed very frequently. Baby powders and creams counteract sore bums and help them to heal. To avoid additional skin irritation, the baby should be washed with fragrance-free soap and gently patted dry.

Sticky eyes. Many newborn babies suffer from mild conjunctival irritation, where a yellowish fluid leaks from the eyes and sticks them together. Carefully dab the eyes with camomile tea and a sterile cloth. If the eye inflammation lasts for more than a few days, you should go to the paediatrician.

Spots on the face. Small white spots on the face (milia), which babies are occasionally born with, usually disappear on their own within a few weeks. If they become inflamed, they should be dabbed with boiled water and an antiseptic cream applied.

 

Consult a paediatrician immediately if the following symptoms occur

For persistent, cramp-like vomiting

For green, watery faeces For apathetic behaviour

For lack of appetite

Coughing or whistling breath

For irregular breathing

For high fever

Signs of infection