Frequently Asked Questions
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Baby's Corner Home Page
So you are overwhelmed! Wondering all sorts of thigs..Well here are a few of the Frequently Asked Questions and Answers that might help.
How often does my newborn need a bath?
There's no need to give your newborn a bath every day. In fact, bathing your baby more than several times a week may dry out his or her skin. If you're quick with clean diapers and fresh burp cloths, you're already cleaning the parts that really need attention — the face, neck and diaper area.
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What type of baby tub is best?
When you're ready to give your baby a tub bath — whether you do so right from the start or you try sponge baths first — you'll have plenty of choices. Many parents choose free-standing plastic tubs specifically designed for newborns. Others opt for plain plastic basins or inflatable tubs that fit inside the bathtub. Lined with a towel or rubber mat, the kitchen or bathroom sink may be another option.
Safety is the most important consideration, not necessarily the type of tub. Gather your supplies ahead of time so that you can keep one hand on the baby at all times. If you're interrupted, take your baby with you. Never leave your baby alone in the water.
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How much water should I put in the tub?
You'll need only 2 to 3 inches (about 5 to 8 centimeters) of warm water for a baby bath. To keep your baby warm, pour warm water over his or her body throughout the bath.
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What should the water temperature be?
Warm water is best. To prevent scalding, set the thermostat on your water heater to below 120 F (49 C). Always check the water temperature with your hand before bathing your baby. Be sure the room is comfortably warm, too. A wet baby may be easily chilled.
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Why does my baby have an umbilical cord stump?
During pregnancy, the umbilical cord supplies nutrients and oxygen to your developing baby. After birth, the umbilical cord is no longer needed — so it's clamped and snipped. This leaves behind a short stump. The umbilical cord doesn't contain pain-sensitive nerve fibers, so your baby won't feel anything during this rite of passage.
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Tips for buying diapers
The major decision when considering diapers is whether to go with cloth or disposal types. Disposable diapers are popular for several reasons, the main one being that you can dispose of the diaper and the mess very easily. Disposable diapers can even be changed and disposed of in public. They also come with convenient closing mechanisms and elastic bands for snug fits. Unfortunately, disposable diapers are expensive, as they constantly must be replaced. They are also a factor in environmental problems, though you can now buy disposable diapers made from sustainable materials and with a minimum of chemical processing and components.
Cloth diapers were used for centuries to wrap up babies, and they are still an option today. Cloth diapers have the advantage of keeping soft natural fibers with minimal chemicals in them next to the baby’s skin. Cloth diapers are also reusable, meaning they do not end up clogging landfills and they are very economical if you wash them at home. Otherwise, you can end up spending money on a diaper service.
If you choose disposable diapers, which most people do, you will need to know what size of diaper to buy for your baby. Some diapers come in sizes 1 through 6, while others are sold as small, medium/large and extra large. The diaper box should recommend a size related to your baby’s age and weight. You can ask a fellow parent to loan you a diaper to try out on your baby if you are unsure of her size.
Disposable diapers can be expensive, so you should always be on the look out for coupons and sales. Stores that sell diapers will often have two-for-one sales, which essentially halve the price of a case of diapers.
When it comes to the style of diaper you want, the choices are many. You can buy diapers with tape or Velcro fasteners. Some diapers are extra absorbent and others have extra padding on the rear. There are diapers that convert into pants and diapers made for wearing overnight. There are even diapers for swimming! Figure out what kind of diaper will best suit your baby’s activities. These will be the most appropriate diapers for you to buy.
Caution
Make sure the diapers you buy will provide a snug fit without being too tight. The leg cuffs should hug the baby’s skin without cutting off circulation.
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Should I Breast feed vs Bottle feed?
For the first six months of life, your baby needs only breast milk or infant formula to eat. Breastmilk contains a unique mix of fatty acids, lactose, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and other important factors that combine to make the perfect infant food. It has everything a baby needs for easy digestion, brain development, healthy growth, and protection from illness.
While breastfeeding may not be possible for all women, infant formula will do just fine.
For such mothers who are unable to breastfeed or who decide not to, infant formula is a good alternative. And you'll still bond with your baby just fine. After all, whether with breast milk or formula, feeding is an important time of connection between mother and baby.
The choice is ultimatley yours.
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