First swim

The first bath takes place in the mother’s room, during which we also teach the parents how to care for their baby according to their individual needs. We usually postpone bathing until 24 hours after birth, subject to agreement with the parents. Given the sensitivity of a newborn’s skin, daily bathing is not recommended during the first 14 days of life. Provided the genital area and any areas of nappy rash are properly cared for, a bath once every 2–3 days, or as needed, is sufficient.

When taking a blood sample, we use non-pharmacological methods of pain relief (swaddling and a few drops of sucrose solution on the tip of the tongue) to minimise any discomfort associated with the procedure. Parents may accompany their baby during the examination; this always depends on their preference. In the event of elevated serum bilirubin levels, we initiate treatment with blue light (phototherapy), which we also provide as part of the rooming-in system, whereby we place a special phototherapy lamp above the baby’s cot in close proximity to the mother’s bed.