A newborn’s shoulders and hips are narrow, the abdomen protrudes slightly, and the arms and legs are relatively short. The average birth weight of a full-term newborn is approximately 7 ½ lbs.(3.2 kg), but is typically in the range of 5.5–10 pounds (2.7–4.6 kg). The average total body length is 14–20 inches (35.6–50.8 cm), although premature newborns may be much smaller. The Apgar score is a measure of a newborn’s transition from the uterus during the first minutes of life.

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Human breast milk is the healthiest form of milk for human babies. There are few exceptions, such as when the mother is taking certain drugs or is infected with tuberculosis or HIV. Breastfeeding promotes health, helps to prevent disease and reduces health care and feeding costs^. In both developing and developed countries, artificial feeding is associated with more deaths from diarrhea in infants. Experts agree that breastfeeding is beneficial, but may disagree about the length of breastfeeding that is most beneficial, and about the risks of using artificial formulas.

Emphasizing the value of breastfeeding for both mothers and children, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) both recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life and then supplemented breastfeeding for at least one year and up to two years or more. While recognizing the superiority of breastfeeding, regulating authorities also work to minimize the risks of artificial feeding.

The acceptability of breastfeeding in public varies by culture and country. In Western culture, though most approve of breastfeeding, some mothers may be reluctant to do so out of fear of public opinion.

For the first week or so, until your baby’s umbilical cord stump falls off and the area heals, it’s best to stick to sponge baths with a lukewarm, moistened washcloth. Wash his face and hands frequently, and thoroughly clean his genital area after each diaper change.

]]> http://mybaby.tv/baby-care/baby-care-and-nutrition-bathing-your-newborn/feed/ 0 http://mybaby.tv/baby-care/natural-baby-care-for-your-newborn/ http://mybaby.tv/baby-care/natural-baby-care-for-your-newborn/#comments Fri, 06 Nov 2009 05:29:59 +0000 Sathees http://localhost/baby/?p=3 With ever newer technology these days we oftentimes forget that the old ways of doing things had a lot going for them, and that old fashioned techniques were more natural.

Bath time can be a great way for you to relax and spend some time with your little one. Just use caution when choosing natural baby care products. Even though a product might advertise itself as all natural, you should read the fine print with care. Make sure that all the ingredients are all truly natural and there are no chemical additives.

Products such as baby shampoo aren’t essential for keeping your baby clean. You can simply use soap and water at bath time to wash your baby’s hair. While some parents choose to give their baby a bath in a sink or bucket, using a proper baby bathtub will help make bath time easier and more fun.

When bath time is over, give your baby a massage to help him fall asleep more easily and restfully. Teach yourself some infant massage techniques and find out about its benefits. You will only apply very gentle pressure to your baby, but both baby and parents will enjoy the results. You and your baby both will get more sleep. Use natural baby care oils that will not harm your newborn’s sensitive skin.

Natural baby care also involves using only clothing made from natural fibers. Cotton is your best choice, as it is the most comfortable and breathable material for babies. Stay away from synthetic materials, which can often be uncomfortable to your baby’s skin and can lead to allergies in some cases.