10 surprising (but totally normal) things about newborns
Welcoming a new baby into the world is one of life’s most magical moments ✨ There are however lots of confusing moments. One moment you can be marvelling at those precious little toes, and the next you’re googling something you have not heard of before.
The truth is, newborns come with all sorts of quirks that are completely normal but often unexpected. If you are a new or soon to be parent, here is a helpful guide to some of the things you may notice in those first few days or weeks - and why there is not usually a need to worry (you already have enough on your mind!).
Please note, that we greatly trust in the importance and significance of parental instinct, and want to remind you, that if you are concerned about something to do with your baby, trust this, and please always seek advice from a trusted health professional.
1. Soft spots on the head
Your baby’s skull isn’t fully fused at birth, which is why you will notice soft spots, or fontanelle’s, on the top and back of their head. This is the case to assist the baby’s head pass through the birth canal and to allow room for the brain to grow. These spots are delicate but protected by a tough membrane, so gentle touch is important.
2. Crossed or wandering eyes
It may look like your baby’s eyes are crossing or drifting, especially in the first few months of life. This is because their eye muscles are still developing. As long as this isn’t constant, worsening or accompanied by other symptoms, it is usually nothing to worry about and will diminish with time.
3. Peeling skin
Newborn skin often peels within the first week or weeks, especially common if your baby was born past their due date. This is the outer layer of the skin shedding, and it doesn’t require any special treatment. Apply a thick, non-fragranced moisturiser all over the body. Avoid moisturisers containing ingredients such as botanicals, food and fragrances as these may disrupt the skin barrier^.
4. Blue hands and feet
It can be common for newborns to have bluish or purple hands and feet, especially when cold. This is a normal response to a baby’s underdeveloped blood circulation and will improve in days post birth*. Blue colouring of any other body part is abnormal and should be assessed by a trusted health professional.
5. Birthmarks
Many babies are born with birthmarks, some fade over time and others are permanent. Common types of birthmarks include;
• stork bites - pink patches on the eyelids
• congenital dermal melanocytosis (previously known as mongolian blue spots) - bluish patches typically on the back or bottom
• infantile hemangiomas - red, raised spots ^^
Most birthmarks are harmless, however if you are concerned or unsure, please talk to your maternal child health nurse or doctor for individualised advice.
6. Swollen genitals
Hormones pass from Mum to baby during pregnancy, and this can cause genitals to swell at birth for both girls and boys. this is temporary and completely normal. You may also notice that baby boy’s testicles seem large at first - this is due to fluid accumulation and usually resolves within a few days. **
7. Vaginal discharge or bleeding in baby girls
This can come as a surprise to many new parents... it is considered normal for baby girls to have a little vaginal discharge, or even slight bleeding, in the first week of life. This is also due to maternal hormones and should stop on its own. **
8. Baby acne
Yes, newborns can get pimples! This may affect babies within the first weeks of life and usually affects the cheeks, nose and forehead. This is considered harmless and does not require treatment, unless it does not clear up in a few weeks on its own.
9. Hiccups
Newborns hiccup a lot! You may have even felt baby’s hiccups whilst pregnant. It is understood that newborn hiccups are generally related to feeding. Sitting a baby up and trying to burp them may help!
10. Breast buds
Both baby boys and girls can have swollen breast tissue at birth. This is, again, due to Mum’s hormones. You may even notice a small amount of “milk” from the nipples. It is strange, but normal, and goes away on its own within a few weeks.**
Remember, your baby has spent approximately nine months in the womb, and life on the outside is an enormous transition. In most cases, you are seeing the beautiful, messy, perfectly normal process of early childhood development.
Those first days and weeks with your newborn can feel like a whirlwind of wonder, worry and sleepless nights. We hope that learning what can be normal, will take a big load off your mind. You are doing a great job!
This blog is written by Shayna, a NICU/Emergency Nurse and Mum to her young daughter.
References:
^ https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Skincare_for_babies/*
* https://www.stanfordchildrens.org/en/topic/default?id=newborn-appearance-90-P02691
^^ https://raisingchildren.net.au/guides/a-z-health-reference/birthmarks
** https://www.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/common-newborn-concerns-factsheet
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