Newborn care in Los Gatos, CA is something that new parents count on. It would be great if babies came with instructions but since they don't, parents count on their pediatrician for the information that they need. Drs. Komal Afzal, Iris Li, and Joseph Gali of LG Pediatrics is a board-certified pediatrician whose philosophy is prevention over intervention.

Feeding

Feeding your baby can be stressful, and it can make you feel inadequate especially if you are having trouble with breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor right away about any issues that you have, and they can recommend a lactation counselor to give you the confidence you need. Don't get discouraged, it can take a while to get used to it and if your baby is gaining weight, they are getting enough food. Take good care of yourself and get enough calories to make sure you are getting the nutrition that you need as well. Plan to nurse every three hours with a newborn.

Sleep

No two babies are alike when it comes to sleep. Some are great sleepers right from the get-go and others don't want to miss a thing.  Most newborns will sleep a minimum of 16 hours and a maximum of 19, but these are not rules. Your infant will not come out of the womb knowing days from night and some of them are reversed and this can be very difficult for exhausted new parents. Babies will wake up to feed every three hours or so and many will go right back to sleep. If your baby is not sleeping enough, you may want to consider swaddling which makes them feel like they are still in the womb and can be comforting. Babies should sleep on their backs and don't have anything in the bed with your newborn.

Development

In the first month of their life, a newborn needs to be cuddled, fed, and to sleep. They begin learning immediately. Your baby may respond to your face and follow you with your eyes or notice a bright-colored toy. They need to have tummy time but spend most time on their back. They should have a startled response to a loud noise and may react call to your voice. Crying is how they will communicate with you and when they need something they will cry. If you feel your baby is not developing as much as it should, give your pediatrician a call to discuss your worries.

When you need newborn care in Los Gatos, CA you can count on Drs. Komal Afzal, Iris Li, and Joseph Gali of LG Pediatrics to give you all the support and information you need. To make an appointment call our office at (408) 358-2624.