Newborn care is an important aspect of parenting but there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding it in India. Destruction is necessary to ensure that the newborns receive the best possible care.

It is important to focus on feeding healthy and nutritious food to the baby at each stage as birth to one year is a crucial period for the health of the baby and in this stage, it is very important to follow the food steps. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr. Rachna Verma, Senior Consultant – Gynecologist and Infertility Specialist at Indian Spinal Injuries Center debunks the following myths related to newborn care in India –

Myth #1: You should bathe your newborn immediately after birth

fact: It is not necessary to bathe your newborn immediately after birth. In fact, delaying the first bath for a few days can help regulate your baby’s body temperature and prevent dry skin.

Myth 2: You should apply kajal to your baby’s eyes

fact: Applying kajal to your baby’s eyes is not recommended as it can lead to eye infections and other complications.

Myth 3: You should massage your baby with mustard oil

fact: While massage can be beneficial for your baby, using mustard oil is not recommended as it can lead to skin irritation and other problems.

Myth 4: You should avoid breastfeeding if you have a cold or fever

fact: Breastfeeding is safe and recommended even if you have a cold or fever. In fact, breast milk contains antibodies that can help protect your baby from infection.

Myth 5: You should avoid taking your baby outside for the first few months

fact: Taking your child out is safe as long as you take necessary precautions such as dressing your child appropriately and avoiding crowded places.

Myth 6: You should feed your baby at fixed times.

fact: On-demand feeding is recommended for newborns because it helps ensure they get enough nutrients and can help establish a healthy breastfeeding routine.

Myth 7: You should avoid using diapers as they can cause diaper rash

fact: Diapers are safe and convenient for newborns, but it is important to change them frequently and use diaper cream to prevent diaper rash.

Dr. Manju Kumar, Associate Consultant – Critical Care & Emergency Services, NH SRCC Hospital in Mumbai adds to the list of myths:

1. Myth: Mother’s milk is not sufficient to nourish the baby and additional external milk and supplements are needed.

fact: Breast milk is the most complete form of nutrition for a newborn baby, providing all the necessary nutrients and antibodies to protect the baby from infection.

2. Myth: Many parents believe that applying kajal to a newborn’s eyes can ward off the evil eye or prevent infection.

Fact: It can be really harmful as it can lead to eye infections and even vision problems.

3. Myth: Applying oil to a child’s head makes their hair grow faster or thicker and fills the gap in the skull bone faster.

fact: Applying too much oil can cause skin irritation and acne. A gap in the bones of a newborn’s skull is normal and fills as a normal developmental process. Oil does not play any role in filling the bone gap.

4. Myth The trend of pouring oil in the nose and ears is also a common myth. Parents believe that it helps clear the baby’s nasal passages and prevent infection.

fact: This practice is very unsafe and can actually lead to infection and even respiratory distress if the oil enters the lungs.

5. Myth: Caring for the umbilical cord stump. Some believe that applying a substance such as turmeric or cow dung can help the stump dry out faster.

fact: This can lead to infection and delay the healing process. It is important to keep the cord stump clean and dry and to seek medical attention if there are any signs of infection.

6. Myth: Teething causes fever and diarrhea

fact: There is no scientific evidence to support this claim. There may be some discomfort and soreness while teething, but this should not cause fever or diarrhoea.

7. Myth: Newborns should sleep through the night right from birth.

fact: However, newborns have small stomachs and need to feed frequently, which means they may wake up every few hours to eat. Newborns typically sleep 16–17 hours a day, but their sleep is often interrupted by feeding and other needs.

It is important for parents to be aware of these myths and obtain accurate information from health professionals. By understanding best practices for newborn care, parents can ensure the health and well-being of their precious little ones.