While much of the attention may seem focused on mom and baby, your involvement is just as important, especially when it comes to your newborn’s health after birth.
One of the most important things after birth is knowing the tests and vaccines your baby will need right away. It includes:
- Vitamin K Shot: helps stop internal bleeding because newborns don’t make enough of it on their own.
- Hepatitis B Vaccine First Dose: shields your infant from the hepatitis B virus, which can be spread through bodily fluids like blood.
- Hearing Test: A quick, painless way to assess a baby’s hearing and identify problems so that early intervention can take place.
- Heel-Prick Blood Test: To check for uncommon but dangerous diseases like thyroid problems or metabolic disorders, a few drops of blood are extracted from the baby’s heel.
Your job is to step up, not just to show up. Ask questions, stay informed, and get involved at every stage. This lets your partner and your child know they can rely on you right away.