As a new parent, it can be concerning to see your newborn baby experiencing any kind of physical discomfort. However, it's important to know that many of these issues are normal and will resolve on their own. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most common physical problems a newborn baby will experience in the first 12 months and offer tips for managing them.
Jaundice
One of the most common physical problems newborn babies experience is jaundice. Jaundice is a condition where a baby's skin and whites of their eyes turn yellow due to a build-up of bilirubin in the blood. It's caused by the baby's immature liver not being able to process the bilirubin. Jaundice is usually not harmful and will resolve on its own within a few weeks. However, in some cases, it may require treatment such as phototherapy.
Colic
Another common problem is colic. Colic is characterised by excessive crying, fussiness, and gas in a baby. It's often seen in babies who are otherwise healthy. The exact cause of colic is not known, but it's thought to be related to a baby's immature digestive system. To manage colic, try different soothing techniques such as rocking, singing, or holding your baby close. Also, it's important to pay attention to the baby's feeding and burping routine.
Reflux
Newborns also often experience problems with reflux. Reflux occurs when stomach contents flow back into the baby's esophagus, causing discomfort and spitting up. This is a common problem in newborns and will usually resolve on its own as the baby's digestive system matures. To manage reflux, try keeping the baby upright after feedings, and burp them frequently. Also, you may want to avoid overfeeding and consider using a smaller bottle nipple.
Constipation
Another common issue that newborns face is constipation. Constipation is defined as having fewer than three bowel movements per week. It's caused by the baby's immature digestive system and can be managed by increasing the baby's fluid intake, and introducing pureed fruits and vegetables. Also, you can try different positions for the baby during a diaper change to encourage bowel movement.
Cradle Cap
Finally, many newborns experience problems with cradle cap. Cradle cap is a common, harmless condition that causes scaly, yellow patches on the baby's scalp. It's caused by an overproduction of oil and can be managed by gently brushing the baby's scalp with a soft brush, and using a mild shampoo.
