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Gentle Beginnings: Caring for Your Newborn (part 3)

  • Charmaine Kek
  • 11 hours ago
  • 3 min read

Basic Newborn Care

  1. Bathing

    Bathing a newborn can feel challenging at first, so don't worry if it takes some practice. Ask for guidance, observe, and take your time. Here are some tips:

    • Water safety: Keep the water shallow. When filling the baby bath tub, add hot water to cold water to avoid scalding. Check the temperature with your elbow, it should feel warm and comfortable, not hot.

    • Preparing your baby: Undress your baby and wrap them in a towel. Clean their eyes, and face, using moist cotton balls, without soap. Use a fresh cotton ball for each part.

    • Hair and head support: Tuck your baby under your arm like a football, supporting their head. Wash your baby's hair and dry it thoroughly to prevent chills.

    • Bathing your baby's body: Gently place your baby in the water, supporting their head, neck, and shoulders. Use a soft cloth to wash under the armpits, then turn your baby over to clean their bottom and genitals.

    • After bath: Lift your baby out carefully, wrap them in a dry towel, dry your baby thoroughly, and put on a clean diaper and clothes.

Never leave your baby unattended in the bath tub.

  1. Umbilical cord stump care

    • Bathe your baby as usual, then lightly dab the stump dry with a clean towel.

    • Do not apply any medicated oils to the stump or belly button.

    • The stump will change colour from yellowish-green to brown and black, and usually falls off on its own within 1 to 2 weeks.

    • Keep diapers folded below the stump so that it is exposed to air, not urine, and stays dry, preventing infection.

    • There may be little blood or yellow discharge for a few days after the stump falls off, it is normal.

  2. Changing diapers

    • For the first 2 to 3 days, newborns pass out meconium - thick sticky, black, or greenish-black stools. Thereafter, breastfed babies usually pass out runny yellow stools, with small seed-like particles.

    • Your baby should typically use 6 to 8 diapers a day.

    • Change your baby's diapers when it is soiled or heavy with urine, cleaning their genital area each change.

    • Apply a protective cream or ointment with each change, if needed.

    • Consult your baby's doctor if your baby develops diaper rash.

    For a more detailed guide on your baby's hygiene care, visit here:

    https://www.healthhub.sg/well-being-and-lifestyle/pregnancy-and-infant-health/baby-care-of-your-newborn-to-have-and-to-hold


Understanding Crying & Emotional Connection

Crying is your baby's way of communicating. It does not mean you are doing something wrong.

Cues like fussing, squirming, or turning their head can signal hunger, discomfort, or a need for closeness. Picking up your baby to soothe them does not spoil them. Instead, it builds trust and emotional security. Responding with calm reassurance helps you both feel safe and connected.

Caring For Yourself Too

Your well-being affects your baby's well-being.

Postpartum emotions

It is common for parents to feel anxious, overwhelmed, or exhausted. If you experience persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, increased irritability, or feelings of hopelessness, beyond the first few weeks, talk to your doctor.

Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Asking for help is okay

Support from family, friends, confinement nannies, and healthcare professionals, can give you rest and build confidence. Learning does not stop, every day brings new moments of understanding with your baby.

Downloadable Newborn Care Confidence Checklist:


Every newborn journey is unique. Your baby does not need perfect care. Instead, they need your presence, patience, and love. With practical knowledge rooted in trusted guidance and a gentle heart, you and your baby can grow together confidently.

Gentle beginnings aren't about knowing everything, they're about learning with care.


Sources: Health Hub / Parent Hub 2026


For a comprehensive step by step guide to caring for your newborn, visit here: https://familiesforlife.sg/pages/fflp-step-by-step-in-pictures?fflpgroup=2





Support for Unplanned Pregnancies

We understand that not every pregnancy is planned, and it can be a difficult and emotional time. If you or someone you know is facing an unplanned pregnancy, you are not alone. You can reach out to us at 9183 4483 to speak to someone who understands and can guide you through your next steps. We are here for you, and we want to help you.

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