7 Parts Of The Newborn That Are More Fragile Than People Think
Image: Shutterstock
It’s an overwhelming feeling for parents upon holding their baby for the first time. But right after that, they start worrying about keeping them safe and healthy. However, a few diaper changes and daily nap schedules later, it all becomes a routine. And, in those moments, parents might forget how vulnerable their babies actually are.
Though our tiny tots might look strong and sturdy, they are truly quite fragile. So, everything needs to be looked into with the utmost care – from their tiny fingers to their cute little head. And the babies’ ears, eyes, and nose can be uniquely fragile in their own way.
Without meaning to get you mommies worked up, we, at MomJunction, just want to give a gentle reminder to help you keep your baby safe and secure. So, we tell you here about 7 parts of an infant that are more sensitive than you think:
1. Brain
We are starting off with this because it is probably a baby’s most fragile body part, and unfortunately, can be put in harm’s way through manners unimaginable. A little one’s brain can be injured if it’s oxygen-deprived for an extensively long period of time or might suffer due to a few injuries or illnesses in the first year. It is also advisable not to shake your baby too violently as it might bruise your baby’s brain. Don’t rock him/her on your knees aggressively either. A few doctors also suggest to keep the baby away for a while if his/her crying stresses you out to much! This might prevent you from giving an unintentionally aggressive shake.
2. Skin
Isn’t a tiny one’s skin just the softest thing in the whole wide world? But, it is really sensitive too. Babies are also as likely to get acne as their mother due to the hormonal changes that might occur in their body. The skin present on an infant’s head is quite susceptible to cradle cap that is similar to tiny baby dandruff, but a little worse. Parents also need to keep looking out for rashes on their baby’s skin because it can be a sign of anything – from a simple illness to an allergy. You might want to avoid giving your baby a bath every day. Apply lotion to keep the skin hydrated and soft. Also, keep him/her away from the sun.
3. Taste Buds
Most mommies believe that there is no need to take care of a toddlers’ tastes when they are young. However, their taste buds begin working even while they are still inside the womb, and are quite fragile. So, they’re able to taste what the mommy has eaten, in the milk they consume while breastfeeding. Though it might be subtle, it’s still there. Also, if babies are exposed to various tastes early on in life, there may be a better chance of them eating all those foods later.
4. Liver
One of the first diagnosis that most babies get from a pediatrician (in a healthy birth) is jaundice. Don’t worry! Most newborns get jaundice since their livers are not too mature during birth. A baby’s skin becomes a little yellowish over the first few days due to the red blood cells’ breakdown. Though it’s initially normal, it is better to book an appointment with your pediatrician if it persists.
5. Neck Area
Probably, grownups don’t realize how important neck muscles are until they hold a baby for the first time. In the initial few days, looking after toddlers can require more care than usual, given how delicate those neck muscles are. In fact, all the new mothers repeat this quite often to anyone who picks up their baby – “Support the neck”.
6. Tiny Hips
Don’t hips seem like the sturdiest part of our body? In fact, it holds true for the most part of our lives. But, a tiny tot’s hips can be more delicate than you would imagine, especially during birth. So, this part needs to be really carefully handled during the delivery. And even later, when the mommies dress up their babies.
7. Nose And Mouth
Breathing is quite essential in life. So is the case for babies too. But at this young an age, it’s possible that their airway might get blocked. Especially since their mouth and nose are so tiny. This is why doctors suggest that parents keep away from soft blankets and stuffed toys. It is also advised to lay down the tiny ones on their back. Absolutely nothing should block the baby’s nose in any which way!
Don’t you worry so much! Just keep all these small pointers in your mind and continue doing your thing! All the best!
