Postpartum: First 6 Weeks After Childbirth
Newborn Basics
During your baby's first few weeks, you will spend most of your time feeding, diapering, and comforting your baby. You may feel overwhelmed at times. It is normal to wonder if you know what you're doing, especially if you are first-time parents. Newborn care gets easier with every day. You may get to know what each cry means and be able to figure out what your baby needs and wants.
Feeding
Breast-feeding is a learned skill—you will get better at it with practice. You may have times when breast-feeding is hard. The first two weeks are the hardest for many women. But don't give up. You can work through most problems. Doctors, nurses, and Reference lactation specialists Opens New Window can all help. So can friends, family, and breast-feeding support groups.
Some women choose to feed their babies using formula. While breast milk is the ideal food for babies, your baby can get good nutrition from formula.
For more information, see the topics Reference Breast-Feeding and Reference Bottle-Feeding.
Sleeping
Most babies sleep for a total of 18 hours each day. They wake for a short time at least every 2 to 3 hours. Always put your baby to sleep on his or her back, not the stomach. This lowers the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
For more information on sleeping, diapering, and other areas of newborn care, see the topic Reference Growth and Development, Newborn.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference November 2, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
