It is often said that the louder a newborn baby cries, the stronger they are. This is not just a folk notion but also reflects an understanding of the health and survival of infants.
Why do newborns cry after birth?
Crying is a physiological need for newborns
Humans breathe and take in oxygen through their lungs. While in the womb, a fetus receives oxygen through the placenta and umbilical cord.
When a baby cries, air starts entering the lungs, causing them to expand, and the baby starts breathing with their lungs, thus establishing normal respiratory function.
Crying after birth has several benefits for the baby: The fetus’s lungs are filled with amniotic fluid while in the womb. After birth, crying can help squeeze the lungs and remove any remaining amniotic fluid, preventing lung infections and breathing difficulties.
Crying helps babies adapt to the new environment
A baby is very comfortable in the womb, with a stable temperature inside the mother’s body. However, after birth, they are exposed to a completely different environment.
Newborns may experience temperature differences immediately after birth. Therefore, crying can help regulate their body temperature, increase their metabolism, and better adapt to the new environment.
Crying is a physiological need for newborns.
Additionally, the fetus is in a high-pressure environment in the womb, and after birth, they enter a low-pressure environment in the outside world. To adapt to this change, crying can help adjust the pressure inside the baby’s body.
Crying is an instinctive reaction
When a baby is born, crying is an instinctive reaction. When they are hungry, thirsty, uncomfortable, or in need of attention, they will cry to attract the attention of adults. This primitive but highly effective form of communication ensures that their basic needs are met. Crying is their first language, expressing the emotional and physical states they are experiencing.
It is often said that a loud cry indicates a healthy baby, and this is true. Crying is not just an immediate reaction but also a sign of normal development.
Crying is an expression of the development of the nervous system. When a baby cries, their brain stimulates nerves and emotional systems, helping them perceive and react to their surroundings.
Three things parents should do when their baby is born
Parents should stay by their child’s side, providing care and cooperating with medical examinations
After a baby is born, they usually undergo a series of checks and tests.
For example, doctors will perform a comprehensive physical examination of the baby from head to toe, including facial features, limbs, skin, abdomen, chest, etc., to ensure everything is normal.
Additionally, they will conduct physical function tests, hearing and vision screenings, listen to the heart and lungs, and more.
Parents should ensure they take their baby to these appointments on time, cooperate with the doctors during the examinations, and comfort their child afterward. It is essential to actively cooperate with medical professionals and prioritize your child’s health.
Doctors will perform a comprehensive health check after birth.
Pay attention to feeding, sleeping, and skin care routines
Feeding is of utmost importance. Breastfeeding mothers should know the correct positions and feed their babies on demand, recognizing hunger cues such as finger-sucking or crying.
For babies fed with formula, choose a brand suitable for their age and follow the correct mixing ratios. When feeding, pay attention to the angle of the bottle to prevent the baby from taking in too much air. Burp the baby afterward to release any swallowed air.
Sleep is also crucial, as newborns spend most of their time sleeping. Create a quiet and comfortable sleeping environment with a suitable room temperature and soft lighting. As they grow, encourage good sleeping habits.
Maintain your baby’s skin hygiene by bathing them daily, ensuring the water temperature is not too high. Change their diapers promptly to prevent diaper rash and apply a protective cream after each change.
Take care of the umbilical cord stump by keeping it dry and clean until it falls off on its own.
Pay attention to feeding, sleeping, and skincare routines.
Parents should continuously learn and gain knowledge to improve their parenting skills
Becoming a parent is a life-changing event, and it requires continuous self-improvement.
Parents can read professional books and magazines on parenting, follow reliable community accounts, and continuously acquire knowledge and skills. They can also participate in various activities and exchange experiences with other parents to learn from one another.
