If you're a first-time parent, and even if you've already been through it before, bringing a baby home can be one of the greatest experiences. But having a few concerns regarding your baby's health is completely normal. With a better understanding of some of the most common newborn care health issues, you may be able to better navigate some of these with confidence. You can learn about these by reading below, but regarding just about every aspect of newborn care, you can reach out to your San Bernardino, CA, pediatrician, Dr. Edgar Alfaro-McField.

Jaundice

Jaundice can be a worrying yet common condition among newborns, it causes the yellowing of the skin and eyes due to high levels of a compound called bilirubin.

The condition will usually resolve on its own in babies, but it's still important to monitor their symptoms, so if you notice an increased yellowing or if it persists for more than just a few weeks, then consult with your pediatrician.

If the condition is not severe, your pediatrician may simply suggest making adjustments to your baby's feeding habits, whether they're breastfeeding or on formula.

Colic

Another common concern for babies is their prolonged crying and fussiness, even though they are otherwise healthy, it typically manifests more often in the evening.

Although there is no exact known for colic, there are a few ways you can soothe your baby and create a calm environment, such as by swaddling, rocking them gently, and using white noise. For mothers who are breastfeeding, it's often recommended to adjust your eating habits to see if certain foods are affecting the baby.

If you're concerned about your baby's crying patterns, you should consult with your pediatrician for help.

Diaper Rash

Diaper rashes can occur due to prolonged exposure to wet diapers, so changing them frequently and using a barrier cream can help reduce these, but your doctor can help if you are not noticing improvements or the rash worsens.

Feeding and Sleeping

Your pediatrician can also help if your baby is experiencing difficulties with either feeding or sleeping. They can recommend support from a lactation consultant if you're breastfeeding or help you find the right formula for your baby. Babies, especially newborns, have irregular sleeping and feeding patterns, often waking up every few hours to feed. It will adjust over time, but in the beginning, it's important to focus on creating a soothing sleep environment and reach out to your pediatrician if there are any concerns.

Newborn Care in San Bernardino, CA

When it comes to newborn care, your San Bernardino, CA, pediatrician is an invaluable resource, schedule a consultation with Dr. Alfaro-McField by dialing (909) 880-9993.