The First Weeks: Real-Life Infant Care Tips from a Doula and Mom

Welcoming a newborn is life-changing...full of beauty, new beginnings, and if we’re being honest, a fair bit of uncertainty. As a Full Spectrum Doula and a mom, I’ve walked this road personally and professionally. I've seen firsthand how those first few weeks can feel like you're learning to speak a whole new language, with a tiny human as your teacher.

The truth is, there’s no single "right" way to care for your baby, but there are tools, routines, and approaches that can make this time more manageable and more joyful. In this post, I’m sharing real-life infant care tips that blend evidence-based best practices with practical alternatives that many families use successfully (and safely).

Baby Care Basics: Foundations That Support You and Baby

Establish a Gentle Rhythm (Not a Rigid Schedule)

Babies often thrive on predictability, but life with a newborn is anything but predictable. Instead of a strict schedule, consider creating a rhythm — a flow of feeding, sleeping, and bonding moments that adapts to your baby’s cues.

Think of it like dancing: you lead, your baby responds, and together you find your own beat.

Feeding: Nourishment and Connection

Whether you're breastfeeding, chestfeeding, pumping, or formula feeding, the goal is the same: your baby is fed, growing, and feeling loved.

• Breastfeeding provides wonderful immune support and bonding benefits, but it can come with its own challenges. Get help early if you’re struggling.

• Formula feeding is also a safe, valid, and nourishing option. Choose a formula that’s appropriate for your baby’s age and speak to your pediatrician if you have concerns.

Fed is best — and supported is better. You don’t have to do this alone.

A well-prepared diapering station for new parents.

Diapering: A Whole New World of Wipes

Expect 10–12 diaper changes a day in those early weeks. Keep your station stocked with diapers, wipes, and diaper cream. If your baby’s skin is sensitive, consider switching products or giving the area a little more time to air dry between changes.

Pro tip: A portable caddy makes diapering easier, especially if you’re recovering from birth.

Safe Sleep — and Realistic Adjustments

The safest sleep environment is:

• Baby on their back

• On a firm mattress

• In a crib, bassinet, or play yard

• With no blankets, pillows, or toys

This reduces the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) and other sleep-related injuries.

But here's the real talk: Some parents find themselves accidentally dozing off while nursing in bed or contact napping out of exhaustion. If this happens, talk with your doctor or sleep consultant (like me!) about ways to reduce risk while meeting your family’s needs. Safety matters, but so does surviving the fourth trimester.

The 5 S’s: Soothing Your Baby with Intention

Developed by Dr. Harvey Karp, the 5 S’s are simple techniques that help soothe a fussy newborn:

1. Swaddling – Mimics the snug feeling of the womb. Just make sure the hips can move and the baby isn’t overheating.

2. Side or Stomach Holding – Hold the baby upright or on their side while awake (never for sleep).

3. Shushing – Use white noise or gentle “shhh” sounds to replicate womb-like noise.

4. Swinging – Gentle rocking or motion can calm a baby, but avoid rapid or unsafe movements.

5. Sucking – Pacifiers or feeding can offer comfort and help self-soothe.

These aren’t magic tricks, but they can make a big difference — especially when used consistently.

Understanding Your Baby’s Cries

Crying is how your baby communicates. While it can feel stressful, try to approach it with curiosity instead of panic.

What to check first:

• Are they hungry?

• Is their diaper dirty?

• Are they too hot or too cold?

• Do they just need to be held?

If you’ve checked all the basics, they may just need your presence. Skin-to-skin contact, gentle rocking, or simply being close can help.

You’ll start recognizing their different cries — hunger vs. overstimulation vs. tired — and responding will become more intuitive with time.

A cozy and safe baby bath setup ready for use.

Bathing Your Baby (Without the Stress)

Bathing a newborn doesn’t have to be nerve-wracking. Here’s how to keep it simple and safe:

• Sponge baths only until the umbilical cord falls off.

• Keep the room warm and the water around 98.6°F (37°C).

• Always support your baby’s head and neck.

• Use mild, fragrance-free soap (or skip soap some days — water is enough).

Keep baths short (5–10 minutes) and always within arm’s reach.

Feeling overwhelmed by all the steps? That’s okay. Try getting into a warm, shallow bath with your baby. Fill the tub with just enough water so your baby can rest safely on or between your legs — with your hands supporting their head and neck at all times.

This can be a calming, grounding experience for both of you. It gives you more control, closeness, and comfort, especially if you're feeling anxious, overstimulated, or if traditional baby baths feel like too much right now.

Tip: Some babies cry during baths because they’re cold. Try covering their belly with a warm, wet washcloth while you wash the rest.

Keeping Your Baby Healthy

You want to do everything you can to keep your little one healthy. Here are the basics:

• Follow your pediatrician's vaccination schedule. Vaccines protect against serious, preventable diseases.

  • If you're considering an alternative schedule or skipping any, have a transparent conversation with your provider and be aware of the risks. These are decisions that come with responsibility, especially if something unexpected happens.

• Wash hands before handling the baby, especially after being out.

• Keep sick visitors at bay, even if it feels awkward.

• Watch for fevers: 100.4°F (38°C) or higher in a newborn? Call your pediatrician.

• Limit outings and crowds during the first couple of months.

A nurturing moment of a parent reading to a newborn.

The Realities of Parenthood (You’re Not Alone)

The early days are full of emotion, not just joy, but exhaustion, confusion, even grief over your “old” life. That’s normal. Here's what helps:

• Ask for help. People want to support you. Let them.

  • Contact a Postpartum Doula, like myself, to add some extra care to you, your little one(s), and your partner.

• Rest and eat when you can. You matter, too.

• Join a parent group, local or online. You're not alone.

• Give yourself grace. This is a huge transition.

You don’t have to do it all perfectly. You just have to be present and loving. That’s more than enough.

Let’s Go Deeper Together

If you’re feeling unsure, exhausted, or just want to be proactive. I’m here to help.

As a Full Spectrum doula, I support families through the highs and lows of early parenting. Whether you’re looking for:

• Postpartum support

• Infant care guidance

• Sleep consultations

I offer personalized, non-judgmental care that meets your family where you are.

Let’s talk about how I can support you.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to know everything right away.

Your baby doesn’t need perfection; they need you.

With love, support, and a few go-to strategies, you’ll find your way through these early weeks.

Take it one day at a time. You’ve got this... and I’ve got your back if you need me.

TL;DR: Quick Recap for Tired Eyes

• Babies thrive on rhythms, not strict routines

• Feed responsively (breast or bottle — both are valid)

• Safe sleep is vital — but real life needs nuance

• Use the 5 S’s to calm fussiness

• Crying = communication, not failure

• Baths can be simple and sweet

• Vaccines matter — talk with your doctor if deviating

• Ask for help. Rest. Take care of you, too.