In this article:
Breathing Problems
If your baby is having trouble breathing, it’s a serious sign that needs immediate attention.Look out for these symptoms:
- Breathing faster than 60 breaths per minute.
- Pauses in breathing or irregular breathing patterns.
- A bluish tint to their skin, lips, or nails.
Fever in Your Newborn
A fever in a newborn is something to take seriously in the first three months. If your baby’s rectal temperature reaches 100.4°F or higher, it’s time to call the doctor.Always use a rectal thermometer for newborns, as other methods aren’t accurate enough.
Before calling, note down the exact temperature, the time you took it, and any fever medicines you’ve given (including the dose and time).
Feeding Issues
Your baby’s feeding habits can tell you a lot about their health. If your newborn refuses two or more feedings in a row or seems to be eating less than usual, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor.Keep an eye on how often your baby feeds and whether they seem satisfied or uncomfortable afterwards.
Dehydration Concerns
Dehydration in newborns is a serious issue and can happen quickly.Watch for these signs:
- Fewer than 6 to 8 wet diapers in 24 hours after day 4 of life.
- Sunken eyes or a sunken soft spot (fontanel) on your baby’s head.
- Crying without tears (though some newborns may not produce tears yet).
- A dry mouth
Bowel Movement Changes
It is normal for breastfed newborns to pass stool several times a day during the first month. In the following weeks, it’s also normal if they go 2 to 3 days without stool.There is no need to worry as long as they are passing gas, have a soft tummy, are feeding well, sleeping well, and are not vomiting or crying excessively.
Vomiting vs. Spitting Up
It’s normal for newborns to spit up small amounts of milk within an hour of feeding. However, vomiting is different. It’s forceful and shoots out instead of just dribbling.Call your doctor if your baby vomits more than two or three times in a day, or hasn’t kept liquids down for eight hours.
Jaundice Signs
Jaundice can make a baby’s skin or eyes take on a yellow tint. It usually appears between the second and fourth day after birth, especially in breastfed babies.You can check for it by gently pressing on the baby’s forehead. If the skin looks yellow, they may have mild jaundice.
Excessive Sleepiness or Lethargy
Newborns spend most of their time sleeping, but extreme drowsiness isn’t normal. If your baby remains unresponsive when you try to wake them or seem unusually floppy, reach out to your doctor.Persistent Crying
All babies cry, but if your newborn is crying inconsolably for a long time and nothing you do helps, it might indicate a problem.Call your doctor if the crying feels excessive or unusual.
Issues Around the Belly Button
If your baby’s umbilical area becomes red, starts to ooze, or bleeds, it could be a sign of a bacterial infection.This area needs to be kept clean and dry, but if you notice these changes, call your doctor right away. Quick treatment with antibiotics might be necessary to avoid complications..
Diaper Rash That Won’t Heal
Diaper rash is common and affects more than half of babies. You can usually treat it with a thick layer of zinc oxide or petroleum jelly.But if the rash doesn’t improve within 48 to 72 hours, bleeds, or has pus-filled sores, contact your doctor. It could be a yeast or bacterial infection that needs treatment.
Cold Symptoms That Persist
Newborns can easily catch colds, which usually cause mild congestion or a runny nose.But you need to reach out for medical help if your baby is so stuffed up that they struggle to feed or sleep, have a fever, or if symptoms last longer than 10 to 14 days.
Eye Discharge or Redness
Redness, swelling, or mucus or pus discharge from your baby’s eyes is a sign to get medical advice.This could be an infection that needs treatment, so don’t ignore it.
Trust Your Instincts
As a parent, your instincts are powerful. If something doesn’t feel right, reach out to your doctor even if you can’t identify the exact problem. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.The first few days with your newborn are a learning curve, and it’s completely okay to feel unsure. Trust your gut, stay prepared with the right information, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support.
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FAQs on Here's When You Need to Call Your Doctor In the First Few Days of Bringing Your Baby Home
- What vaccinations are usually given to babies in the first weeks?
In the first weeks, babies often receive vaccines like BCG, Hepatitis B, and polio. Your doctor will guide you on the exact timeline. - Is it normal for newborns to lose some weight after birth?
Yes, most newborns lose up to 7 per cent to 10 per cent of their birth weight in the first few days. They usually regain it within two weeks with regular feeding.
