The Basic Needs of a Baby at Birth

   The Basic Needs of a Baby at Birth

The baby’s are securely placed in their mothers ‘womb’. When they are born, the battle begins for the survival. So they have to be protected by us from the adverse environment.

The first day after birth is critical for the survival and future well being. Usually this golden time is the first one hour after birth.

Now let us see the basic needs of a baby at birth

They are-

1.   Warmth

2.   Normal breathing

3.   Mothers milk

4.   Protection from infections

If you observe all the above basic needs indicate that it is purely depends upon her/his mother and the care givers. So it is important to give proper care to all neonates immediately after birth.

Early breast feeding and keeping the baby close to the mother also reduce the risk of hypoglycemia and hypothermia. Breast feeding should be initiated within one hour of birth in all babies.

Baby’s skin temperature falls within seconds after birth. So the baby must be dried immediately and cover with warm towel. Keep the baby between the mother’s breast to ensure warm and to get first skin to skin contact.

If the baby is crying vigorously we can confirm there is normal breathing.

Always keep the baby in safe hygienic environment and keep away from other infection sources.