BUSTING BABY MYTHS BUSTING BABY MYTHS

Separating Fact from Fiction in Newborn Care

Bringing a newborn into the world is an incredible experience filled with excitement, love, and, let’s face it, a lot of questions. As new parents navigate the uncharted territory of caring for their little bundle of joy, they often encounter various myths and misconceptions along the way. These misconceptions can add confusion and unnecessary stress to an already overwhelming time. The team of doctors at Owensboro Pediatrics set the record straight and debunk eight common myths surrounding newborn care, providing parents with the real truths they need to feel confident, informed, and ready to embrace the beautiful journey of caring for their newborn. So, let’s dive in and separate fact from fiction!

Myth: INFANTS NEED TO BE BATHED EVERY DAY

Truth:

It is fine to bath your baby every day if they enjoy it, but young babies do not need a bath every day. They just need their face, neck, hands and nappy area to be kept clean.

Myth: PICKING UP A CRYING BABY WILL SPOIL THEM

Truth:

You cannot spoil a young baby. Crying is one way in which babies communicate. By crying they are telling us that they need something and it is important for parents and caregivers to respond to them. Observing and learning the cues that your baby is giving you can help a lot.

Myth: TEETHING CAUSES FEVER

Truth:

Many parents are often told that teething can cause fever, but this is not true. Teething tends to start at between 6 and 24 months, which is also around the time that babies are more likely to get infections. Parents should never mistake a fever as just teething or they could overlook an illness that might require medical attention. If you are unsure, you should see your doctor.

Myth: YOU NEED TO CLEAN THE BABY’S CORD WITH ANTISEPTIC AND ALCOHOL

Truth:

There is no need to use antiseptic or alcohol to clean your baby’s cord stump; just clean it as part of your baby’s usual wash or bath, and dry it gently. If wee or poo gets on the stump, you can use a mild soap to help clean it off.

Myth:

they have not pooed for a few days. Fully breastfed babies are less likely to get constipated.

Myth: BABIES WHO HIT DEVELOPMENTAL MILESTONES EARLY ARE GIFTED

Truth:

All babies are different and will develop at individual rates and in different ways. There is no evidence to show that early infant milestones mean a child is gifted or special.

Myth:

Babies Need To Be In A Routine From Day One

Truth:

It is impossible to force a newborn baby into a routine, despite books that claim to teach you how to. The sleep patterns and cycles of a young baby are different from those of an adult. Young babies only sleep for a few hours at a time and some go through a period of wanting many feeds over a short period of time.

BABIES

Need To Poo Every Day

Truth:

Babies may not poo for several days or even up to a week. If your baby’s poo is not soft, they are not constipated, even if

Myth: BABIES ARE ALWAYS DELIGHTFUL

Truth:

Babies cry a lot, vomit and poo. Being a parent can be hard, especially in the early days. OP