Newborn Care FAQs

If you are caring for a newborn, you probably have a lot of questions. Fortunately, your pediatrician knows the answers. The pediatricians at Children’s Healthcare Associates provide a wide range of children’s medical services, including newborn care. They have two convenient office locations in Chicago, and Northbrook, IL, to help you and your baby.

These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions and answers about newborn care.

When should my newborn see a pediatrician?

You should plan on your newborn visiting the pediatrician within 2 to 5 days of birth. This first visit may occur while you and your baby are still in the hospital. It’s a great time for you and your baby to get to know your pediatrician. 

Should people wear a mask when visiting my newborn?

Visitors should be careful with a newborn. During the first 6 – 8 weeks of life any fever potentially means an ER visit. That involves labs and a possible overnight stay. As pediatricians we’ve always recommended that anyone with a fever, recent fever, or acute upper respiratory tract infections stay away from newborns. During the COVID pandemic we added that all people wear a mask when holding a newborn, as a precaution. While we no longer urge family and friends to wear a mask when visiting a newborn, we support families that want to continue that requirement for their newborn.

What do I need to know about feeding my newborn?

Most newborn babies want to feed every 2 to 3 hours if you are breastfeeding. If your newborn is on formula, your baby will want to feed every 3 to 4 hours on average.

What are the sleeping habits of a newborn?

Your newborn will sleep most of the day, usually at least 16 hours. Remember to always place your baby on their back when sleeping. This helps prevent sudden infant death syndrome, known as SIDS. Try to sleep when your baby sleeps, so you stay rested and able to care for your newborn.

What do I need to know about diaper changes?

Your baby’s stool will start out black after birth. The stool color changes to dark green and then to yellow. You don’t need to worry unless the stool looks white or red. It could be a sign of blood in the stool.

How often should I bathe my newborn?

Don’t bathe your baby too often because it can lead to dryness. Always use only mild soap and lukewarm water. Be sure to thoroughly clean the skin folds, where bacteria can build up.

To learn more about newborn care and how your pediatrician can help you and your baby, call the pediatricians at Children’s Healthcare Associates. You can reach them in the Chicago, IL, office by calling (773) 348-8300, or in the Northbrook, IL, office by calling (847) 480-1500, so call now.

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Chicago Office Children's Healthcare Associates
2900 N Ashland Ave.
Chicago, IL 60657
Phone: (773) 348-8300
Fax: (773) 348-7163
Northbrook Office Children's Healthcare Associates
1535 Lake Cook Rd. Suite 101
Northbrook, IL 60062
Phone: (847) 480-1500
Fax: (847) 480-1510