It’s crucial—especially for first-time mothers—to understand the natural behaviors of newborns that shouldn’t raise concern. Equally important is knowing how to properly care for your baby through the first four months of life, to ensure proper development aligned with global growth standards.
New moms often face various challenges when caring for their newborns. To address this, Dr. Amjad Saadeddin, Consultant in Pediatrics and Neonatology, shared with Nadormagazine six essential rules every mother should follow:
1. Prioritize Breastfeeding in the First Months
From the very first moments, aim to establish breastfeeding as the primary and exclusive source of nutrition for your baby. It has numerous health benefits for both mother and child, especially in the early days. Even if you’re exhausted or feel like your milk hasn’t come in yet, don’t delay offering your breast—it helps strengthen the emotional bond and aids your recovery by helping the uterus return to its normal size.
If you’re too tired or your baby is in the NICU, express milk and feed it gradually via a feeding tube rather than a bottle to avoid nipple confusion. Continue expressing regularly until your baby returns to you and you can resume direct breastfeeding.
2. Do Not Give Any Liquids Besides Breast Milk
Avoid giving water or any other liquids before your baby is four months old. Many mothers mistakenly offer herbal teas or mix boiled herbs with water in bottles, thinking it helps soothe the baby. In reality, this can create a false sense of fullness, leading to poor weight gain and even early signs of malnutrition.
Also, avoid over-the-counter remedies like “Gripe Water,” often given to calm colic—it’s been found to have serious neurological side effects. Remember: breast milk contains the perfect amount of water for your baby’s hydration needs.
3. Give Your Baby a Bath Before Bedtime
A warm bath, especially in the evening, has both emotional and physical benefits. It can significantly reduce your baby’s crying, relax tense muscles, and ease gas or colic.
During the first few days, bathe your baby in a warm, draft-free corner of the room rather than in a full tub. Be sure to dry thoroughly, especially in skin folds, to prevent fungal infections. A consistent bedtime bath routine can help your baby sleep more soundly and peacefully.
4. Understand That Crying Is Normal
Frequent crying is completely normal during the early months and is a healthy developmental sign. Instead of worrying, embrace it as an indicator that your baby’s nervous system is developing well.
Avoid using sedatives or getting frustrated. Instead, take calming steps to reduce crying episodes—rocking, singing, swaddling—but know that some level of crying is normal and even beneficial.
5. Avoid Solid Foods Before Four Months
Do not introduce any solid foods before your baby is four months old. Some mothers believe that additional food will help their babies grow faster, but breast milk alone provides all necessary nutrients in the first months—vitamins, minerals, and immune-boosting compounds.
Introducing solids too early can harm your baby’s immature digestive system. After the fourth month, you can gradually introduce small amounts of soft, mashed foods alongside breastfeeding—but always under medical guidance.
6. Treat Colic With Belly Massage, Not Medication
Massage is one of the safest and most effective ways to reduce colic. Gentle abdominal massages can help your baby pass gas more easily, improve digestion, and increase appetite—which in turn supports healthy weight gain.
Use a few drops of warm olive oil and massage in a counterclockwise motion. You can also gently cycle your baby’s legs like a bicycle, especially after feedings. These exercises help release trapped gas and should be done gently to avoid stressing the hip joints.
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