Bringing Baby Home

Bringing your baby home is one of life’s most exciting — and sometimes overwhelming — moments. New parents often feel a mix of joy, exhaustion and uncertainty. Preparing ahead of time can make those first days more comfortable and help you feel more confident in caring for your little one. 

What You Need at Home

Not much! Babies often arrive before their due date and you may still have a long “to do” list, but that’s nothing to worry about. It's a good idea to have these basics ready:

• Several sleepers or onesies
• A rectal thermometer
• A safe sleep space such as a crib, portacrib or bassinet with a firm mattress and fitted sheet — no stuffed animals, pillows or blankets
• Burp cloths
• Diaper cream
• Diaper wipes
• Newborn diapers
• Nasal saline spray 

Know the Signs of Postpartum Depression

After giving birth, hormone changes can sometimes cause the “baby blues” or postpartum depression, which may range from mild to severe. Symptoms can include:

• Difficulty bonding with your baby
• Loss of appetite
• Mood swings
• Trouble sleeping
• Withdrawal from family or friends

Mild baby blues usually fade within a couple of weeks. If symptoms persist or intensify, talk with your healthcare provider. Support, counseling or medication can help. Partners can also experience depression after a baby arrives, so they should be aware of changes in each other. 

Breastfeeding and Your Diet 

Once your baby is here, you can return to your usual diet with a few exceptions if you're breastfeeding:

• Avoid fish with high mercury levels, such as shark or tilefish, since mercury can pass through breast milk.
• Drink at least 12–18 ounces of water each day.
• Enjoy small amounts of caffeine or alcohol in moderation.
• Eat regular, balanced meals to keep your energy up. 

Car Seat Safety 

A safe, properly installed car seat is essential for your baby’s first ride — and every ride after. For peace of mind:

• Choose a seat with five-star ratings for “Ease of Use” and “Securing the Child” from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
• Have your car seat installation checked by a certified technician. Free checks are often available in local communities. 

Going Outside

Fresh air can be good for both you and your baby! On nice days, take a short walk together. Just be sure your newborn is dressed for the weather and protected from the sun. 

How to Handle Visitors 

Family and friends can be a great source of support, but newborns are more vulnerable to germs in the early weeks. Keeping your baby safe and healthy is your top priority. It's important that your visitors respect your wishes when coming to see your newborn. Consider:

• Limiting visits from young children for the first month or two since they may carry viruses without showing symptoms.
• Asking all visitors to wash their hands before holding the baby.
• Making sure you and your close caregivers are vaccinated against pertussis and the flu to help protect your baby. 

When to Call the Doctor 

Newborns usually have a check-up within one to three days after leaving the hospital. Contact your healthcare provider sooner if:

• Your baby has a fever of 100.4°F or higher (rectal temperature)
• Your baby has jaundice (yellowing of the skin)
• Your baby is not feeding well or has missed several feedings
• You’re worried or feel something isn’t right 

Your doctor wants to hear from you if you think your baby is not well. Never hesitate to contact your baby's pediatrician when you're concerned.

Trust Your Instincts

Learning to care for a newborn baby is a hands-on job. You’ll get advice from books, experts and well-meaning friends — but you know your baby best. Trust yourself, take it one day at a time and enjoy this precious stage.