Infant formulas are fine too! Most babies tolerate a formula based on cow’s milk. These are iron-containing formulas. The iron is important and does not cause constipation. If your baby has an allergy, this will become clear over the first couple of weeks, and we may suggest a formula based on soy or an even
Signs of infant illnesses and general safety tips.
We recommend using only soap, water, and vaseline or aquaphor in the first two weeks of life. Desitin, Boudreaux’s Butt Paste, and A&D ointment may also be used in the diaper area. After the first two weeks of life, you may use baby lotions and products made for sensitive skin. We suggest using Dreft or
We suggest bathing your infant every two to three days with baby soap or Dove soap and water. He or she should have a sponge bath until the umbilical cord falls off at two to four weeks of age. After the cord falls off, he or she may have a bath that submerges the belly
Newborn babies should urinate several times a day. Stooling patterns vary widely from after each feed to every four to five days. Babies’ stools are often mistaken for diarrhea because they are very liquid and usually yellow and seedy. Straining is common and is not a sign of constipation. Hard stool or pellets are signs
Burping an infant halfway through a feeding and at the end of a feeding is helpful. A lot of breastfed babies will not burp, but we like to give them the opportunity! After your baby is back to birth weight (typically at the two-week checkup), we suggest not waking a baby to feed at night.
Access to lactation consults, breastfeeding classes and support groups.
Website and book recommendations for developing nutritional eating habits.
Helpful links to guide your child through puberty and the changes they might encounter during adolescence.
The first few months of your newborn’s life are often difficult. First time parents especially are adjusting to the shock! Remember that at about six weeks, a routine begins to emerge. Until then, just try to rest during the day when possible and call upon friends and family for help. Let our handouts guide you though your