Monica Romeiro discusses 7 things not to do with newborn babies:
1. Don't squeeze the baby's fontanelle (soft spot on the head) as it's a sensitive area that needs to be protected.
2. Don't squeeze or poke neonatal acne (small pimples on the baby's face), as it can cause inflammation and potentially lead to infection.
3. Don't pick at cradle cap (a condition that causes flaky skin on the scalp) with your fingernails, as it can cause irritation and potentially lead to infection. Instead, gently remove it with baby oil or conditioner.
4. Don't cover the umbilical stump area with bandages or coins, as it can cause irritation and potentially lead to infection. Instead, clean the area with 70% alcohol and let it dry naturally.
5. Don't shake the baby, as it can cause shaken baby syndrome, a serious condition that can cause brain damage and even death.
6. Don't leave the baby crying, as it can cause emotional distress and potentially lead to long-term problems. Instead, comfort and soothe the baby to help them feel secure.
7. Don't allow visitors to visit the baby too soon after birth, as it can expose them to germs and potentially lead to infection. Instead, ask visitors to wait until the baby is a bit older and more robust, and to take precautions such as wearing masks and using hand sanitizer.
Here are the key facts from the text:
1. A newborn baby's skull bones have not yet closed, and they have two small holes, one further back and a larger one further forward.
2. The smaller fontanelle closes around two months after birth, while the larger one can take up to a year to close.
3. The fontanelle is important for the baby's brain development and growth, which is rapid in the first years of life.
4. It is natural to notice a pulse in the fontanelle, and it is not a cause for concern.
5. Neonatal acne is a common condition in newborns, characterized by small pimples on the face or nose.
6. Neonatal acne can appear on the day of birth or in the first few days of life.
7. It is not recommended to squeeze or poke neonatal acne, as it can cause inflammation and potentially harm the baby.
8. Cradle cap is a common condition in babies, characterized by a yellowish, oily substance on the scalp.
9. Cradle cap can be removed gently with a comb and baby oil or conditioner.
10. The umbilical stump should be cleaned with 70% alcohol three times a day, and it should not be covered with a bandage or coin.
11. The umbilical stump usually falls off within 10-20 days after birth.
12. Warning signs for umbilical stump problems include redness, swelling, discharge, and a foul odor.
13. Shaking a baby can cause shaken baby syndrome, a serious condition that can lead to brain damage or even death.
14. Newborns have a small stomach and need to be fed frequently, as their stomach is only the size of a cherry at birth.
15. Breastfeeding helps to enlarge the baby's stomach, reducing the need for frequent feedings.
16. Newborns do not have a sense of day and night and may cry frequently due to discomfort, hunger, or stress.
17. Leaving a newborn to cry can be emotionally distressing and may lead to behavioral problems later in life.
18. Newborns are susceptible to infection and illness, as they have not yet developed antibodies.
19. Visitors should not be allowed to visit a newborn baby, especially if they are sick or have a cold.
20. It is essential to prioritize the health and well-being of the mother, as she needs care and attention after childbirth.