Birth Day: Your Baby’s First 24 Hours of Life（2）
Hour 12
After you’ve had some time with your baby, the nurse may show you how to diaper, swaddle, and give him a full bath. With your consent, he’ll also get the first of his immunizations, the hepatitis B vaccination.
Within the first 24 hours, your baby will receive a full examination from your pediatrician or a colleague at the hospital. “The pediatrician’s first visit is a head-to-toe, extensive checkup,” says Dr. Shu. She’ll measure his height, weight, and head circumference to compare with the norm for his gestational age. She’ll also listen to his heart and lungs, take his temperature, and check for any abnormalities. Now is a good time to ask questions, get pointers for the upcoming days, and schedule your first office visit.
Hour 24
Your baby will sleep between 12 and 22 hours in his first day, so be sure to take advantage! “As a general rule, when the baby is sleeping, so should you,” says Dr. Atlas. Your body has just been through an intensely demanding experience, so take the time you need to recoup and get your strength back. Plus, you’ll need a full tank of energy for when you finally get to take your baby home.
Dad’s Delivery Duties
You’re definitely the one doing the hard work during delivery, but dads can help out by:
Calling family to tell them about the birth (make a list before the big day so you don’t forget anyone)
Taking lots of pictures and e-mailing them to friends and family
Keeping notes on what the doctors and nurses say in case you’re too tired to remember later
Asking the ob-gyn questions about your condition, and the pediatrician about the baby’s
Limiting visitors to short stays so everyone can get some rest (and reminding them to wash their hands before holding the baby)
Learning how to diaper, bathe, swaddle, and help with feedings
Newborn Photography Dos & Don’ts
Do take close-ups of your baby’s toes, hands, and bum! You’ll want to document all her wonderful features.
Don’t overuse your flash — it can be dangerous to newborn eyes. Rely on natural light whenever possible, or try to photograph in a bright room.
Do put your baby on a plain, solid background. Lots of patterned fabrics can be too distracting.
Don’t forget about your family and friends. They’re an important part of the day, so take pics of them holding the baby.