University of Virginia Health System

Site Index Preparing for Your New Baby Baby's Care After Birth Newborn Care Newborn Appearance Normal Newborn Behaviors and Activities Bathing and Skin Care Umbilical Cord Care Diapers/Diaper Rash Circumcision Getting to Know Your New Baby Breastfeeding Your Baby Bottle-Feeding Infant Feeding Guide Newborn Complications When to Call Your Physician The New Mother - Taking Care of Yourself After Birth Glossary Online Resources

Newborn babies - they are so small, yet they are the focus of so much attention. Each year in the United States, more than 4 million babies are born - about seven babies every minute.

Today, babies have more opportunities than ever before to grow into healthy children, adolescents, and adults. Advances in medical research, the advent of new vaccines and medications, and the development of new technologies have helped improve the healthcare of both well and sick newborn babies. Further, innovations in baby care equipment have made the tasks of caring for babies much easier.

A newborn baby brings many joys as well as many questions. Along with the happiness parents feel with the birth of their child, they often have concerns about his/her health and how to properly care for him/her. Fortunately, there are many knowledgeable healthcare professionals to guide you and teach you, as parents and caregivers, about your new baby. With their help, you can become confident in your own abilities and knowledge as you love and care for your newborn.