Newborn care

All of our doctors are on staff at Prentice Women's Hospital. If you deliver at Prentice and identify any doctor from our practice as your baby's pediatrician, we will be there to see your newborn in the hospital.  If you are delivering at another hospital, please call us after your baby is born to schedule your first appointment.

In the hospital babies get several tests including a hearing screen, oxygen test, jaundice check, and a newborn screen.  They get an antibacterial eye ointment, an injection of vitamin K to help with blood clotting, and a hepatitis B vaccine.
                                                                                   

What to Expect in the First Weeks

The first few weeks after birth are a time of adjustment for both you and your baby.  Newborns typically eat every 2–3 hours, sleep up to 16 hours a day (in short intervals), and require frequent diaper changes. It’s normal for your baby to lose a bit of weight after birth and then steadily regain it within the first two weeks.

We generally see newborns 2-4 days after discharge so we can check your baby's weight, discuss feeding, and make sure your baby is healthy.  If your baby did not get the hepatitis B vaccine in the hospital we can give it at the first visit; otherwise there are no vaccines.  Write down all your questions so we can answer them for you!

For your first appointment please bring your insurance card and hospital discharge papers (if you did not deliver at Prentice).  We also recommend bringing a blanket in case the office is cool.  Leave plenty of extra time, it is hard to get out the door with a newborn!

Key Aspects of Newborn Care

Feeding:
Whether you choose to breastfeed or formula-feed, we’re here to support your feeding journey. Breastfed babies often nurse 8–12 times in 24 hours. If using formula, it’s important to follow recommended guidelines for preparation and feeding amounts.  Check out our Breastfeeding page for more information on feeding your newborn.

Sleeping:
Newborns sleep in short cycles and should always be placed on their backs to sleep, on a firm, flat surface, free from soft bedding, pillows, or toys — following the ABCs of safe sleep: Alone, on their Back, in a Crib.

Diapering & Hygiene:
Expect at least 5 wet diapers and several stools per day after the first week. Keep the diaper area clean and dry to prevent diaper rash. Until the umbilical cord falls off, give sponge baths rather than full immersion baths.

Soothing Techniques:
Crying is normal — it’s how babies communicate. Common soothing methods include swaddling, gentle rocking, white noise, and offering a pacifier. If crying persists or feels excessive, contact your us.

When to Call the Pediatrician

Contact us if your newborn:

• Has a fever over 100.4°F (38°C)

• Shows signs of dehydration (fewer than 6 wet diapers/day)

• Has trouble feeding or isn’t gaining weight

• Seems overly sleepy or unresponsive

• Has yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

• Cries excessively and cannot be consoled

We’re Here for You

We understand that caring for a newborn can feel overwhelming at times.  From the front staff to the nurses to the providers, our experienced pediatric team is committed to providing clear guidance, compassionate care, and a trusted partnership from the very beginning.