Postpartum Information about Your New Baby

After delivery, the baby will be:
  • Scored
  • Weighed
  • Cleaned off
  • Footprints taken
  • ID tag put on ankle or wrist
  • Umbilical cord cut and clamped
  • Suction mucus from baby’s nose and mouth
Physical exam will be done including checking the baby’s
  • Ears
  • Eyes
  • Nose
  • Throat
  • Heart
  • Lungs
  • Abdomen
  • Genital areas
  • Arms
  • Legs
  • Reflexes
Laboratory tests will also be done on the baby before being discharged.

**Most if not all of these tests can be done while the baby is resting with you.  Skin-to-skin contact immediately after delivery is beneficial for both the mother and baby and is strongly recommended, especially if you plan to breastfeed.  There is also no reason why the baby should be removed from the mother’s room.  A mother rests more comfortably when the baby remains in the room with her.  Therefore, tell your doctor that you want to have skin-to-skin contact with your baby following delivery in order to initiate breastfeeding and also ask for the baby to remain in your room with you if desired.


Circumcision:
  • Should be done in first 10 days of life

  • Some physicians use anesthesia (numbs pain), but others do not.  It has been proven that babies feel pain during this time, so check with your physician to make sure the baby will be given anesthesia.

Bathing Baby:
  • Do not have to bathe everyday.  A couple of times a week is good.

  • Sponge baths are good in between baths.

  • Do not get umbilical cord wet until it falls off.  Give baby sponge baths until then, but be sure to clean baby’s head everyday.  If you get the cord wet, use rubbing alcohol on a Q-tip or cotton ball to dry it up.  Do the same for your baby’s circumcision until it is healed.
  • Only need a few inches of water in the tub.

  • Make sure water is not too hot.  Test the water by using your wrist to make sure the water is not too hot.

  • Support baby’s neck and head.

  • Wash baby’s body first.  Dry baby off and either clothe or wrap a baby towel around him/her.

  • Then, wash the baby’s head. Always make sure you wash the baby’s head last and use baby’s shampoo.

  • Wash baby’s head everyday to avoid cradle cap.

  • Do not need soap – can just use water or regular soap.

  • No bubble bath or scented soaps.

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Disclaimer:  This information is meant for educational purposes only and cannot replace medical advice.  Contact your doctor about any concerns you have.