Your baby’s first weeks: what to know and when

The first checkup comes up fast

The first checkup usually happens within the first week, often just a few days after you get home. It's a quick look at weight, feeding and skin color, and a great time to bring your questions.

If it isn't booked yet, a call to your doctor or pediatrician's office is worth it today.

Good to know: fevers in tiny babies

In the first few months, health organizations usually say any fever (38°C / 100.4°F or higher) is a reason to call the doctor right away, day or night. It's not a cause for panic, just one of the few times not to wait and see.

Keep your doctor or pediatrician's after-hours number somewhere easy to find.

Flu shots for babies: from 6 months

Babies can usually get their own flu shot from 6 months. Until then, the best shield is everyone around them getting theirs, and many health organizations recommend a yearly flu shot for babies 6 months and up.

Ask your doctor or pediatrician about flu shots for baby and the family each flu season.

RSV in babies: protection for the first season

RSV is a common cold-season virus that can be hardest on young babies. Many health organizations recommend protecting babies in their first RSV season, either through a vaccine during pregnancy or an antibody shot for baby.

Ask your doctor or pediatrician whether your baby is already protected, or what they'd suggest.

A little vitamin D for breast milk babies

Breast milk is amazing, but it's naturally low in vitamin D. Health organizations usually recommend a daily vitamin D supplement for babies who get breast milk, starting in the first days.

Ask your doctor or pediatrician which kind to use and how much.

A little yellow is common this week

A little yellow tinge in the first days is common and usually fades on its own. It's worth a call if the yellow is spreading to the arms or legs, getting stronger, still there after 2 weeks, or baby is very sleepy or not feeding well.

Not sure? Your doctor or pediatrician would rather hear from you.

Baby poop colors: yellow, green or brown is normal

Baby poop changes a lot in the first weeks, from dark green to green, yellow or brown, and all of those are normal. The one to watch for is pale: cream, chalky grey, or a washed-out yellow or beige.

Pale poop, or yellow skin still there after 2 weeks? Call your doctor or pediatrician soon rather than waiting for the next checkup. A photo of the diaper helps.

A few minutes of tummy time goes a long way

A few minutes on the tummy while baby is awake and you're right there helps build neck and shoulder strength. Short, frequent tries are plenty at first, and it's fine if baby protests a bit; lying down face to face can help.

Your voice is baby's favorite sound

It may feel early, but babies love hearing your voice. Narrating your day, singing, or reading anything out loud, even your own book, all count.

Safe sleep, the simple version

Health organizations recommend back to sleep, every sleep, on a firm, flat surface with nothing else in the crib or bassinet. Sharing a room (not a bed) is recommended for at least the first 6 months.

If baby often falls asleep in a car seat, swing or carrier, moving them to a flat sleep space when you can is a good habit.

Newborn wet diapers: how many to expect in the first week

In the first week, wet diapers are the clearest sign at home that your baby is getting enough milk, so they're worth a glance. Expect about one more each day: at least 2 on day 2, 3 on day 3, building to around 6 a day by the end of the week.

Fewer than that, very dark yellow pee, or a baby too sleepy to feed? Call your doctor or pediatrician today.

Feeding nonstop? That's normal right now

In the early weeks, growth spurts can make babies want to feed much more often for a day or two. It's normal and usually passes, and it doesn't by itself mean you're low on milk.

If you're worried about how feeding is going, your doctor, pediatrician or a lactation consultant can help.

Let baby set the bottle's pace

Holding the bottle more level, so milk only flows when baby sucks, lets them take breaks and stop when they're full. It's often called paced feeding, and it can make switching between breast and bottle easier too.

Get your car seat checked

Everyone can use a hand getting a car seat installed properly. A certified child passenger safety technician can look it over with you.

Based on US and Canadian sources.

A few forms have deadlines

The first weeks are a blur, and a few forms have time limits, like adding baby to your health coverage or applying for parental leave benefits. A quick check now can save a headache later.

Based on US and Canadian sources.

It's okay to step away for a minute

Some days babies cry a lot, even when everything's done right, and it can wear anyone down. It's always okay to lay baby safely on their back in the crib, step out for a few minutes to breathe, and come back when you're calmer.

If crying feels unusual or you're worried, your doctor or pediatrician is there for that.

Child care waitlists fill early

If you'll need child care down the road, waitlists can be long, especially for infant spots. Getting on a few lists early costs little and keeps options open.

Based on US sources.

How are you doing, really?

Feeling weepy or on edge in the first couple of weeks is very common. If heavy sadness, worry or not feeling like yourself sticks around longer than that, it's worth reaching out, and that goes for partners too.

Your own doctor, your OB or midwife, or your baby's doctor can all help, so reach out sooner rather than later.