Getting to Know Your Newborn

Appearance at Birth

Newborns are unique in their appearance . Some of these characteristics change soon after birth .

• Head is large compared to their body and may be molded or cone-shaped .

• Tend to keep arms and legs pulled in close to their body .

• Average length is 20 inches long .

• Average weight is 7.5 pounds .

• May have swollen genitals and breasts from pregnancy hormones .

• Face may be bruised or swollen .

• Hands or feet may appear blue or pale .

• Waxy white coating ( vernix ) and / or fine hair called lanugo may cover the skin . Birthmarks are also common .

Preview

The First Weeks

Newborn Abilities

Your baby will continue to change quickly in Newborn babies are born with many abilities . the days after birth .

• Use sounds and movement to communicate .

• Senses ( except vision ) are well-developed .

• Nearsighted but can see contrasts well .

• Umbilical cord dries and falls off within the first week or two .

• Soft skin may peel or look blotchy .

• Rashes , acne , small white bumps ( milia ) and cradle cap are common .

• Jaundice is common the first week and may cause a yellow tint to skin or eyes .

• Eyes may appear crossed at times for the first several months .

Vision is best at 8 – 10 inches .

• Able to find and latch onto the breast using their senses and reflexes .

• Movements are jerky at first and get more coordinated as baby grows .

• May get hiccups often , and sneeze , gag , yawn and display other reflexes .

61 Life with Baby