User:LindPugh3818
From Politics and Interlocking Directorates
The day has finally come to take your newborn home. Now, it's all up to you, no more help from your nurses. Feeding, burping, diaper changes, bath time...who has time to sleep anymore? If you are like most parents, you've probably already forgotten the instructions that your nurses gave you right before you left. Well, not to worry, we have the information for you right here.
Feeding
First things first, lets tackle the feeding issue. Whether you are breast or bottle feeding, your baby will need to eat every 2-4 hours around the clock. Yes, this means waking up at 2 a.m. to feed your baby. Feed your baby whenever he/she is showing signs of hunger (rooting, bringing hands to mouth, smacking lips, making sucking movements with mouth, sighing, sobbing, cooing, and increased alertness). Crying is considered a late sign of hunger.
How much should you feed your baby? Well, every baby is different and tends to eat different amounts at each feeding. Feed your baby until he/she seems satisfied. Your baby will let you know when he/she is hungry again. For you breastfeeding moms, a good 15 minutes on each side is usually sufficient (unless your little one is ravenous). For those babies eating formula, offer 2 ounces and see how that feeding goes. Maybe your baby will only take an ounce, the whole bottle, or will want more. But 2 ounces is a good place to start.
Burping
Breastfeeding babies tend not to gulp as much air as formula fed babies, so therefore, burping when changing breasts and after the feeding should be fine. For formula fed babies, a good indicator is when your baby stops sucking. The gas bubble in the tummy makes your baby think that he/she is full. Usually after a good burp, feeding will resume.
Babies who have reflux or spit-up frequently will benefit from frequent burping. If breastfeeding, it may be necessary to burp your baby after every 5-10 minutes (or so). For bottle babies, try burping after every half an ounce to an ounce.
Diaper Changes
Read More: Newborn 101,
For More Baby Related Information:
Visit Us At: .
