Welcoming a new baby into the world is an exciting and joyful experience for parents. However, despite all the preparation and research, there may still be some things about your newborn that surprise you. From the shape of their head to their poop, newborns can exhibit some strange but normal behaviors. So, if you notice something unusual with your little one, don’t panic! Here are 7 strange-but-normal things to expect with your newborn.
1. The Shape of Your Baby’s Head May Be Conical
One of the first things you may notice about your newborn is the shape of their head. It may appear conical or misshapen, and this can be a bit alarming. However, there’s no need to worry. The bones in a newborn’s skull are not fully fused together, allowing for better movement during birth. As your baby makes their way through the birthing canal, their head can get molded into a mildly conical shape due to the pressure exerted during delivery. But rest assured, this is temporary and their head will return to its normal shape within a week or two.
2. They’re Always Crying…Or Are They?
Babies are known for their crying, but have you ever noticed that your newborn doesn’t seem to produce any tears when they cry? Don’t be alarmed! Newborns tend to be slightly dehydrated when they are born because they receive all the hydration they need from the womb. Their tiny tummies are not capable of holding large amounts of water, and doctors do not recommend giving water to babies until they are at least six months old. As a result, it may take some time for your baby’s body to start producing tears. Usually, babies will start crying with tears around two weeks to one month after birth. However, if you notice any crusty discharge in the corner of your baby’s eye, it could be a sign of blocked tear ducts, known as Dacryostenosis. In such cases, it’s best to consult your pediatrician.
3. Babies Don’t Have Teeth When Born, Do They?
You may be surprised to see your newborn with a tooth or two when they are born. While most babies are not born with teeth, some may have natal teeth, which are usually discolored and soft. Natal teeth are not firmly attached to the gums and can be shaky, and they may fall out after a few months. However, be cautious when the natal teeth become loose, as they can pose a choking hazard. It’s advisable to consult a pediatric dentist for safe removal when the natal teeth start to loosen.
4. Hair All Along Their Backs!
Babies come in all shapes and sizes, and some newborns may have more hair than others. While some babies may have little to no hair on their heads, others may have hair along their neck, shoulders, and backs. This fine hair is known as lanugo and develops in the womb. It serves as protection for their skin and helps regulate their body temperature. Lanugo usually sheds within a few weeks, even in premature babies. So, don’t worry if your baby looks like a tiny bear!
5. Something Wrong With Their Poop?
As a new parent, changing your baby’s diapers becomes a routine task. However, when you first encounter your baby’s poop, you may be in for a surprise. Instead of the typical poop you’re familiar with, you may notice something that looks like tar. Don’t worry, what you’re seeing is meconium, and it’s actually a normal occurrence in newborns.
Meconium is the waste that accumulates in a baby’s intestines while they are in the womb. It contains fats, proteins, toxins, and cells that have been swallowed by the baby while they were developing. As a result, your baby’s first bowel movements will be dark, sticky, and thick, resembling tar. This can be concerning for new parents who may not be expecting this type of poop, but rest assured, it’s completely normal.
Over the course of a few days, as your baby starts to drink breast milk or baby formula, their poop will gradually transition from meconium to a more typical appearance. The color, consistency, and frequency of your baby’s poop will change as their digestive system matures and adjusts to their new diet. It’s important to keep an eye on your baby’s poop to ensure that it progresses to a normal pattern, but don’t be alarmed by the initial meconium poop.
6. Umbilical Stem In The Navel Area
After your baby is born, the umbilical cord, which served as their lifeline in the womb, is clamped and cut. However, a small protrusion of the cord, known as the umbilical stem, remains attached to your baby’s navel area for some time. This may be a cause for concern for some parents, especially if they notice variations in size or if it doesn’t dry off quickly. However, rest assured that this is a normal process.
The umbilical stem will gradually dry up and fall off on its own, usually within a few weeks after birth. It’s important to keep the area clean and dry to prevent infection. You can gently clean the area with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, as recommended by your pediatrician. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or pulling on the umbilical stem, as this can cause discomfort and delay the healing process.
It’s also important to note that the size of the umbilical stem can vary from baby to baby. Some may have a smaller or larger umbilical stem, and this is not necessarily a cause for concern. However, if you notice any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus, or if the umbilical stem doesn’t seem to be drying off after three weeks, it’s important to consult your pediatrician for further evaluation and guidance.
7. Embrace the Strange, But Normal!
As a new parent, it’s natural to be concerned or surprised by some of the strange things you may observe in your newborn. However, it’s important to remember that many of these seemingly unusual occurrences are actually normal and part of your baby’s development process. From the conical shape of your baby’s head to the lack of tears when they cry, these strange but normal things can be explained by the unique characteristics of newborns.
It’s always a good idea to educate yourself about what to expect with a newborn, but keep in mind that every baby is different, and not everything you read or hear may apply to your specific situation. It’s essential to consult with your pediatrician if you have any concerns or questions about your baby’s health and development.
