Bringing a newborn home comes with happiness and uncertainty for most first-time mothers. That’s because though they are glad for being mothers, they don’t know the best ways to take care of their children. However, you can have your troubling concerns addressed during the first pediatrician visits. Here are some of the questions to ask your newborn’s pediatrician to get the most from this visit.
How Should I feed the Newborn?
According to the American Academy of Pediatricians, newborns should be breastfed exclusively for 6 months. However, this may not be possible for all mothers. But, whether you are feeding the baby on formula, nursing, or doing combo, ask your pediatrician about feeding the baby. Let them advise you on the best strategy for ensuring that your baby gets all the necessary nutrients.
How Do I Ensure that My Baby Gets Adequate Vitamin D?
Formula and breast milk gives newborns the nutrition they need to grow. However, some babies still fall short of vitamin D. This vitamin is important for proper growth of bones. It also boosts their immune system. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, babies should get 400 IU of this vitamin every day. Breast milk may not provide this amount to infants. Therefore, ask your doctors about ways of providing adequate vitamin D.
How Do I Make Sure that My Baby Sleeps Safely and Comfortably?
It’s recommended that infants sleep on their back. This reduces risks of the sudden infant-death syndrome. However, there are numerous safety precautions that are wise to take when it comes to sleep for babies. Therefore, ask your pediatrician how you can ensure safe and comfortable sleep for the newborn. Also find out about normal sleep patterns for newborns from your child’s pediatrician.
These are just some of the questions to ask a pediatrician during the first visit. Additionally, write down all concerns you may have to ensure that you don’t forget to ask the pediatrician during the appointment.
