Caring for Motherhood: Baby

A ReadNPlay Production

Talking to friends and family, asking your prenatal provider, and searching for options online or calling your insurance company are helpful steps that you can take during pregnancy to find a health care provider for your baby. Calling the health care provider's office before delivery can help them anticipate the birth of your baby and provide an opportunity to answer your questions. Some offices may even offer a prenatal visit to expectant parents.

Questions to consider when finding a health care provider for your baby

  • Is the provider accepting new patients?
  • Will they accept my insurance?
  • What are the office hours?
  • What happens if there is an after-hours emergency?
  • What hospital does the provider use?

Did you know?

  • A child health care provider will examine your newborn at the hospital.
  • Once babies leave the hospital they are often seen in clinic for their first checkup within 1-3 days.
  • Routine checkups in the first year are also scheduled at 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, and 12 months of age.
  • Your baby’s first recommended “immunization” is breastfeeding because it will help protect your baby from infection.
  • Exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life, with continued breastfeeding as long as desired by mom and baby, helps babies thrive and stay healthy. If using formula, be sure to mix it correctly.
  • The first dose of the Hepatitis B vaccine is recommended prior to discharge after birth.
  • The next series of vaccines is given when babies are 6-8 weeks old.

Items you will need to be prepared to bring baby home

  • Rear-facing car seat/infant seat – help with correctly installing your car seat is available from local hospitals and many fire departments.
  • A crib or bassinet – babies should sleep on their backs in their own crib or bassinet (or “pack-and-play”) but in the same room as their parent/caregiver to prevent SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
  • Sleep sacks and thin receiving blankets – no heavy or loose blankets, pillows, stuffed animals, or other items should be placed in baby’s crib.
  • Diapers, wipes, barrier cream, clothes, a thermometer (often provided at birth) and bathing supplies.
  • A breast pump, if needed, may be covered by your insurance with a prescription.

Reasons to call your baby’s health care provider

  • Your baby’s breathing is faster or irregular.
  • You notice blueness or a darkness on the lips or face.
  • Your newborn has a fever (100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher) or their body temperature has dropped (below 97 degrees).
  • You see signs of dehydration (less than 3-4 wet diapers in 24 hours).
  • You are breastfeeding and have nipple pain or trauma.

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