What to expect: baby’s first week
In your baby’s first week, expect them to be very sleepy. Newborns typically sleep around 16-18 hours a day. This is because they’re adjusting to life outside the womb and need plenty of rest for brain development and growth.
You’ll also notice changes in your baby’s skin. Since it's their first time experiencing the world outside the womb, their skin can be very sensitive. Baby acne, flaking skin, and milia (tiny white bumps) are common. These are normal as their skin adjusts to its new environment.
Prepare for lots of diaper changes—typically 8-12 a day! You might need to change diapers before and after each feeding. This is a good sign because it means your baby is eating well, staying hydrated, and growing.
Finally, your baby will want to be snuggled and held often. This closeness helps them feel secure, as they are comforted by your warmth, heartbeat, and scent. For new moms, this is a special time to bond with your baby, fostering a strong emotional connection that is beneficial for both mom and baby.
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It's true, that first week with a newborn is a blur of sleep, feeding, and oh-so-many diaper changes! From my own experience, I can tell you that while your little one might seem like a 'VERY SLEEPY BABY', those 14-17 hours of sleep in short 2-3 hour cycles can feel anything but restful for you! I quickly learned that establishing safe sleep practices from day one was key. Always place your baby on their back to sleep, in a bassinet or crib, without loose blankets or bumpers. This isn't just about the first week; it sets a crucial habit for their safety as they grow, impacting best sleeping position for 3 month old baby later on. I made sure their sleep space, whether in a bassinet or crib, was clear and safe. Another thing I wish I'd focused on a bit more early on was newborn tummy time first weeks. It felt daunting at first, but starting tummy time in short bursts, even just a minute or two multiple times a day, is so important for neck and shoulder strength. I'd lay my baby on a patterned playmat or across my chest, making funny faces to encourage them to lift their head. It’s hard work for them, but seeing those tiny muscles develop is amazing! And what about all that snuggling? The article mentioned A SNUGGLY BABY, and it's absolutely right! My baby just wanted to be held constantly, and honestly, those moments of holding, snuggling, talking, and making eye contact were magical. Swaddling became my best friend, especially after leaving the hospital. Learning to swaddle properly—snugly but not too tight around the hips—helped my baby feel secure, just like they were in the womb. It’s a fantastic way to offer comfort, especially when they're fussing or just needing that extra sense of security. When it came to feeding, I found that keeping my baby upright for a little while after feeds really helped with any spit-up or discomfort. While I didn't deal with severe baby acid reflux sleeping position issues, I did notice that a gentle burp and a few minutes of upright holding made a difference in their overall comfort and settled them more easily for sleep. It’s all about finding those little tricks that make both of you more comfortable during this incredible, but often challenging, newborn baby first days hospital swaddled and beyond period. Every day brings something new, from their CHANGING SKIN with flaking or those tiny milia, to discovering new ways to connect. It’s an adventure I wouldn’t trade for anything!
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