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10 Tips for Handling and Holding a Newborn
1. Hold the baby like a football
Hold your baby with their back on your forearm and head nestled in the crook of your arm, angling their stomach towards yours. This secure position is especially useful while sitting.
2. Mind the baby’s soft spots
Newborns have two soft spots on their heads: the posterior fontanel at the back and the anterior fontanel on top. These areas need gentle handling, as they allow for brain growth and will eventually close.
3. Keep your baby upright after feeding
To aid digestion and prevent spit-up, keep your baby upright for about 30 minutes after feeding. Place their head near your shoulder, with one arm supporting their bottom and the other supporting their head and neck.
4. Wash your hands before touching a baby
Hand hygiene is crucial for newborns, especially in the first two months when their immune system is still developing. Ensure visitors also wash their hands before handling your baby.
5. Keep the umbilical stump clean and dry
The umbilical stump should be left alone to dry and fall off naturally. Keep it clean and dry, and avoid covering it with a bandage or diaper. If it gets soiled, clean it gently with water and mild soap.
Avoid these unsafe motions and positions:
6. Don’t lift your newborn by or under their arms
Newborns have weak head and neck muscles. Always support their head and neck when lifting them to avoid injury.
7. Don’t bounce a fussy newborn
Bouncing can be jarring. Instead, hold your baby in the football hold and gently sway them back and forth to soothe them.
8. Don’t extend the baby forward to someone else
When passing your baby to someone else, have them come close to you. Ensure they support the baby’s head and bottom before you release your grip.
9. Don’t sit or lie down to hold the baby if you are tired
If you feel drowsy, place your baby in their sleeping area to avoid the risk of dropping them.
10. Don’t kiss your newborn if you have (or recently had) a cold sore
Cold sores, caused by HSV-1, can be dangerous for newborns. Avoid kissing your baby if you have an outbreak or feel one coming on, and remind others to do the same.
