5 Surprising Newborn Behaviors

Newborn behaviors can be quite surprising for many.  We have found that the newborn behaviors below seem to surprise parents the most. We like to take the anxiety out of the postpartum period, so we have compiled some common behaviors and explained why they are, why they are happening and assuring you they are normal.

Spit Up: Out the Mouth & Nose

Yep, you read it right.  Many parents are alarmed when milk shoots out the baby's mouth or nose.   It happens.  Sometimes, infants eat quickly and fill up their tummies.  Then, when an air bubble (burp) comes up too fast or you lay the baby down, backflow occurs.  It will shoot out the baby's mouth and sometimes their nose if forceful enough.  It can be scary for the baby and parents.  While scary, it happens, and it is considered normal.  A pediatrician once told me that "100% of babies spit up, some more and some less".  If the baby seems to be in pain before and after it happens, always consult your pediatrician for advice. Some simple ways to reduce spit-up are to burp frequently, keep the baby upright for 20 minutes after feeding, and elevate the crib/bassinet to a slight incline.

Sleepiness

Many clients are surprised at how long a newborn sleeps, especially in the first few weeks.  This is normal.  Newborns sleep 16-18 hours a day!  They are advised to be awakened every 2-3 hours for feeding, but many go back to sleep.  You will find that they will have longer periods of awake time as time goes on.  If you were growing this quickly, you would sleep a lot, too! If you have a newborn that is very hard to rouse for feedings or will not stay awake long enough for a good feeding, please see your pediatrician.  Excessive sleepiness may be a sign of dehydration.  A good rule of thumb is to have 6-8 wet/poopy diapers a day.  Less than that, your pediatrician should be called.

Noisy Sleep

We just discussed how newborns sleep most of the day and night away, but most parents don't realize that newborns are noisy sleepers.  Baby is fed, swaddled, put into the bassinet, sound asleep, and walks away.  Suddenly, they hear all kinds of squeaks, grunts, groans, and even cryouts.  They rush back over just to find their sleeping newborn. Babies have active sleep phases.  During that time, they are asleep, but not in a deep sleep. During this active sleep phase, eyes flutter, and they have irregular breathing, movement, and noise. At first, it can be a little unnerving, but it is completely normal! If your baby seems to be wheezing or gasping during sleep, please consult your pediatrician immediately.

Throwing of Arms

Newborns throw their arms out frequently.  The motion is a reflex called the Moro Reflex.  It is a reflex in response to a sudden loss of support. It can be accompanied by crying, but not always.  It is a reflex that newborns have, gradually lessens, and disappears between three and four months. Newborns throw their arms frequently.  This reflex can be triggered by laying them down, startling them, and even when sleeping.  Many parents worry that there is something wrong with their baby.  This is a routine, innate response; when it is missing, there is cause for concern. Many newborns awaken themselves with this reflex.  One of the best ways to prevent waking is to swaddle.  Swaddling keeps the arms secure and prevents the newborn from throwing their arms.  The swaddle's security also allows the caregiver to lay the newborn down without triggering the reflex.

Sneezing All the Time

Much to parents' surprise, newborns sneeze a lot! Most parent's biggest concern is a cold or other illness.  Newborns sneeze for the same reason adults sneeze, to clear nasal passages. Newborns aren't used to all the particles and allergies in the air and are extra sensitive.  Babies also sneeze to reopen a nostril after nursing.  While nursing, one nostril can become pressed against the breast, and sneezing opens the nostril up. If sneezing is accompanied by yellow or green nasal discharge or a fever, please call your pediatrician.

The postpartum period can be a whirlwind of emotions and anxieties. While it's a beautiful time, it can also be overwhelming, especially when confronted with unexpected newborn behaviors. Remember, these behaviors are completely normal and a part of your baby's development. If you have any concerns about your baby's health, always consult with your pediatrician. By understanding these common behaviors, you can approach this exciting time with confidence and ease.

Nurtured Foundation Doula and Newborn Care provides doula and consulting services in the Cleveland, Akron, and Sandusky areas and virtually.