Training of Roma Health Mediators in Reproductive Health

Bathing Newborns
Newborns need to be clean and warm as they are not able to control their body
temperature. Usually, after each feeding, the baby wets his diaper and needs to be
changed. Fortunately, “pampers” keep the baby’s skin drier and healthier than the classic
cotton diapers.
Babies need to be bathed every day:
• Babies should be bathed in the evening. This helps to relax the baby and helps
him to feed and sleep better.
• The temperature of the water must be around 36-38 degrees Celsius.
• The baby needs to be supported and carefully supervised during the bath in order
to avoid his swallowing water.
• Baby soap should be used for cleaning the baby’s skin.
• Immediately after the bath, the skin should be dried gently with a cotton towel
(without rubbing it), and a baby oil or cream should be used for moistening the
baby’s skin.
Sleep
The baby needs to sleep most of the time during the first days after his birth. Then,
gradually he will need fewer hours for sleep, as other activities will occupy him.
• Create from the beginning a routine for a regular sleep
• Do not force the baby to sleep if he does not need it.
Checking the Newborn’s Weight
The baby’s weight should be checked and recorded regularly. Health professionals
(family doctors and nurses) do this during the regular check-ups of the baby. Mothers
and/or mediators may use spring-balances at home for measuring the baby’s weight.
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RFHI/JSI Romania Training of RHMs in Reproductive Health Session 8: Newborn Care