Diapering Your Newborn

Diapering is a big part of caring for your newborn. In the first few weeks after birth, you’ll change as many as 10 to 12 diapers each day. As your baby gets older, the number of diapers you change every day will go down.  

Keeping your baby clean and dry helps prevent rashes and keeps them comfortable. 

When to Change the Diaper

You should change your baby’s diaper whenever it is wet or dirty. Newborns often need diaper changes every 2 to 3 hours, and sometimes more often than that. Check your baby’s diaper often. Leaving a wet or dirty diaper on the baby for too long can irritate their skin and lead to a diaper rash. 

Keeping Your Baby’s Skin Healthy 

When changing your baby, gently clean their bottom with wipes or a soft washcloth with warm water. It’s important to wipe from front to back when cleaning your baby’s bottom. Allow their skin to dry before putting on a new diaper. 
Don’t use baby powder. Baby powder can get into the air and cause breathing problems for your baby. 
If your baby’s skin looks red or chapped, it may be a sign of diaper rash. Apply a diaper cream to the area at each diaper change to help protect the skin and allow it to heal. If the rash doesn’t improve within 2 to 3 days, talk to your baby’s doctor. 

Special Care  

If your baby has had a circumcision, follow the care instructions given by the doctor. This may include more frequent diaper changes to keep the area clean and using petroleum jelly to help protect the circumcision site as it heals. Remember to be extra gentle with diaper changes while the area heals. 

In the first two weeks after birth, your baby will have a stump where their belly button will be. This is where the umbilical cord was attached during pregnancy. The stump needs to stay clean and dry to heal properly. Keep it out of the diaper area by folding the front of the diaper down. This will allow the area to heal safely. The umbilical stump usually falls off after two weeks. Once it has fallen off, you can diaper your baby normally.

Normal Changes in Your Baby’s Body 

It’s common for newborns to have mild swelling in their genitals. This happens because of hormones passed from the mother before birth. The swelling may look surprising, but it’s normal and will go away within the first few weeks after birth. 

Baby girls may also have vaginal discharge. It can look white, pink or even like light bleeding. This is also normal and should go away within about 10 days. If you are concerned, talk to your baby’s doctor. 

Tracking Wet and Dirty Diapers 

Counting your baby’s diapers each day is a helpful way to make sure they are getting enough milk. Below is a guide for the minimum number of wet and stool diapers your baby should have. These are good signs that your baby is feeding well and staying hydrated. If you are concerned that your baby is not keeping up with the diaper chart, contact your baby’s doctor. 

 
A Daily Routine of Care 

The number of diaper changes may feel like a lot at first, but it will quickly become part of your daily routine. Each diaper change is a chance to connect with your baby. You can talk, smile and make eye contact during this time. 

If you ever have concerns about your baby’s skin, diapers or feeding, reach out to your baby’s doctor. They are there to help guide you and answer any questions you may have. 

With regular diaper changes and gentle care, you can keep your baby clean, healthy and happy.