The newborn baby
Dr B. J. C. Perera MBBS(Cey), DCH(Cey), DCH(Eng), MD(Paediatrics), MRCP(UK), FRCP(Edin), FRCP(Lond), FRCPCH(UK), FSLCPaed, FCCP, Hony. FRCPCH(UK), Hony. FCGP(SL) Specialist Consultant Paediatrician and Honorary Senior Fellow, Postgraduate Institute of Medicine, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka.An independent freelance medical correspondent. KEY POINTS The foetus lives a pampered existence within…
The journey of a newborn baby from the womb to the outside world is a remarkable yet challenging experience. Within the mother's womb, the baby enjoys a cozy and warm environment, with all its needs met by the mother's body. However, the moment of birth marks a significant shift as the baby must independently breathe and adapt to the new surroundings.
The most crucial need for a newborn baby post-birth is to establish proper breathing. The womb's placenta and umbilical cord provided the baby with oxygen; now, the baby must fend for itself. In most cases, the baby begins breathing normally shortly after birth and displays clear signs of vitality, such as a vigorous cry, expanding lungs, and active movement of its limbs.
To ensure the baby's well-being, it is essential to provide warmth and comfort. Skin-to-skin contact between the baby and the mother is ideal, allowing the baby to latch on for breastfeeding. The newborn should be fed on demand, day and night, and its first urine and stools should appear within the first 24 hours.
In certain instances, however, babies may face difficulties with breathing. Prompt and decisive action is necessary in such cases, as the lack of oxygen can severely impact the brain's development, potentially leading to permanent damage like Cerebral Palsy. The resuscitation of the newborn requires skilled medical personnel and dedicated efforts to ensure the baby's chances of recovery are maximized.
Written by urgent.news from The Island Sri Lanka's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
