Prep for Baby
In many homes, newborn care is left entirely to women. But an involved father protects the mother's health, the baby's care, and the whole family.
In every practical way. The mother is recovering from birth and exhausted. A father can bring the baby for feeds, do burping, nappies and bathing, take night shifts, keep the mother fed and rested, and manage the flow of visitors. This is not helping; this is being a parent.
Even though he cannot feed at the breast, the father is central to success. He can bring water and food to the mother during feeds, handle everything around the feed, shield her from unhelpful pressure, and encourage her when she is tired. A calm, supported mother feeds more easily.
Hold the baby upright against your chest, or sit them supported on your lap, and gently pat or rub their back until the wind comes up. A few minutes after each feed is enough. It is a perfect job for a father.
Clean gently from front to back, use plain water or gentle wipes, let the skin dry, and apply a thin barrier cream if it is red. Always keep one hand on the baby on a raised surface. Fathers should learn this early.
Trust your instincts and act fast. Get the baby seen urgently if they refuse feeds, are hard to wake, breathe rapidly or with difficulty, feel hot or very cold, are yellow and worsening, or simply do not look right. It is always better to come in than to wait, and a father who knows these danger signs is a real safeguard.
Do not forget the one thing that ties it all together, our printable checklist to tick off before the big day.
Choosing your paediatrician before the birth is one of the best things you can do. Book a consultation with Dr. Sethi, or send us a message.