How your pediatrician in Rockville, MD, can help with newborn care

You want your newborn to thrive, and proper newborn care is critical. If you are a new parent, it’s natural to have a few questions about what to do to care for your newborn. Your pediatrician can help. Dr. Errol Douglas at Gold Pediatrics in Rockville, MD, offers a wide range of children’s medical services, including newborn care.

These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions and answers about newborn care.

When Should My Newborn First See a Pediatrician?

Your pediatrician will first visit your newborn within 2 to 5 days of birth. Your pediatrician may visit while you and your baby are still in the hospital. During this first visit, your pediatrician will examine your baby and provide the first doses of immunizations.

What Should I Know About Feeding My Newborn?

Your newborn baby will want to feed every 2 to 3 hours if you are breastfeeding. If your newborn is on formula, your baby will want to feed every 3 to 4 hours.

What Should I Know About My Newborn’s Sleep Habits?

When your baby is born, it’s common for your baby to sleep for at least 16 hours or most of the day. It’s important to place your baby on their back when sleeping, to help your baby’s breathing. You should try to sleep when your baby sleeps, so you can be refreshed and able to care for your baby.

What About My Baby’s Diaper Changes?

Your baby’s stool starts out black immediately after birth and will change to dark green and then to yellow. This is normal. You don’t need to worry unless your baby’s stool is white or red, because these could be signs of blood in your baby’s stool.

What Do I Need To Know About Bathing My Newborn?

It’s important to not bathe your baby too often because it can lead to dry skin and irritation. Always use mild soap and lukewarm water, making sure to clean the folds of the skin, where bacteria can thrive.

To learn more about newborn care and how your pediatrician can help, talk with an expert. Call Dr. Errol Douglas at Gold Pediatrics in Rockville, MD. You can reach him in the office by calling (301) 517-9710, so call now.