How Do I Know if My Newborn Is Healthy?
Your newborn is most likely perfectly healthy if they are showing signs that they are developing normally. These can be signs they are growing, like having a healthy appetite and gaining weight. It can also mean showing signs that they can hear your voice and see your smile. You will also want to watch for signs that your baby is mentally developing.
You may also be worrying if your newborn’s unusual appearance is cause for alarm. Not all babies are born with a round head, and this is a surprise to many new parents.
In this article, we’re going to take a look at some of the reasons your baby may look different than you were expecting. We’ll also go over some warning signs that something may be wrong.
The Shape of Your Newborn’s Head
Your new baby’s head may be pointed or it may have strange swelling on the scalp. Believe it or not, this all can be part of the normal birth process. Head molding happens when a baby is squeezed through the birth canal.
Scalp swelling may be caput succedaneum or a cephalohematoma, which happens when fluid or blood collects under the scalp. This can also be caused by a normal birth, but it can also be the result of medical negligence. If you believe this is the case with your baby, click here to get free information.
Your Baby’s Eyesight
When a baby is first born, they do not have 20/20 eyesight. Instead, their eyesight is approximately 20/100. Newborns can only see objects and faces that are to 12 inches away. If you notice your baby is gradually able to see objects that are farther away and is smiling back at you, it is a sign that your infant’s eyesight is developing. By two months, your baby should be able to begin tracking brightly colored or black and white objects with their eyes.
Your Baby’s Weight Gain
If your baby is gaining weight and you’re changing at least 8 to 10 diapers every day, it’s a good sign that your newborn’s nutritional requirements are being met. It can be easy to fall into the habit of counting every ounce your baby drinks if you’re bottle-feeding and worrying that it’s not enough. If you’re breastfeeding, there is no way to measure how much your baby is drinking. Weight gain and soiled diapers are a better indicator of your baby’s feeding needs being met.
Your Baby’s Hearing
When a baby turns toward the sound of your voice or another sound, it’s a good sign that its hearing is developing normally and that baby’s brain is developing a healthy sense of curiosity. You can play music for your baby or use a toy that makes noise to see if you can get your baby to turn toward it if you are concerned about their hearing.
Some Warning Signs
If you see your newborn exhibiting any of the following signs, it’s time to call the pediatrician so their condition can be evaluated.
Fever
Rapid breathing
Failure to urinate
Failure to have a bowel movement
Vomiting
Wheezing and grunting
Your baby looks yellow
Excessive crying
Listlessness
Inability to suck or poor appetite
Drainage or a bad smell from the umbilical cord
Rib retraction while breathing
Your baby’s pediatrician will perform tests to determine the underlying reason for your baby’s symptoms. They may prescribe medications or order further testing. In most cases, your baby will be just fine.
As the baby’s parent, no one knows your baby as well as you do. Don’t be afraid to speak up and ask your doctor questions, even if they say nothing is wrong.