Newborn Information
Right after delivery, newborns enter a transition period while they adapt to the world outside of the womb. They undergo physiological changes that prepare them to survive as children.
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Umbilical stumps
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Newborns have umbilical stumps. These are remnants from the umbilical cords that tethered them to the placenta in the womb. The stump will fall off, and the now-closed opening will become the belly button.
Head shape
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Newborns who are delivered vaginally may have heads that have been molded into a conical shape. Skulls of fetuses are not hard and fused so they can maneuver through the birth canal. The cone will flatten and the soft spot ("fontanel") will close.
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Eyes
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According to Heidi Murkoff's "What to Expect the First Year," a newborn can focus on objects 8 to 14 inches from his face. The baby's vision will sharpen during the first four months.
Sleep
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Newborns spend most of the day sleeping. During the first few weeks of life, they sleep 16 hours per day on average.
Elimination
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Newborns begin to urinate very soon after birth. The first bowel movement is a sticky, tar-like substance called meconium and will arrive within two days of birth.
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References
- "What to Expect the First Year;" Heidi Murkoff; 2003
- "Your Baby's First Year Week by Week;" Glade B. Curtis, M.D.; 2004
