Labor & Delivery

Introduction

The first look at your newborn is an incredibly emotional and unforgettable moment. This initial encounter is filled with love, awe, and a profound sense of connection. Understanding what to expect during these precious first moments can help you fully embrace and cherish this special time.

What to Expect in the First Moments

1. Appearance of the Baby

• Vernix and Blood: Your baby might be covered in vernix (a white, cheesy substance that protects the skin in the womb) and some blood. This is completely normal.
• Skin Color: Initially, your baby’s skin may appear bluish or purplish. It will gradually turn pink as they start to breathe air.
• Cone-Shaped Head: The baby’s head might be slightly cone-shaped due to the pressure of passing through the birth canal. This will round out over the next few days.

2. First Cry

• The first cry is a vital sign of a healthy newborn. It helps clear the lungs of amniotic fluid and signals the beginning of independent breathing.

3. Immediate Bonding

• Skin-to-Skin Contact: Placing your baby on your chest immediately after birth helps regulate their temperature, heart rate, and breathing. It also promotes bonding and initiates breastfeeding.
• Eye Contact: Newborns can focus on objects about 8-12 inches away, making it possible to lock eyes with your baby for the first time.

4. Medical Assessments

• Apgar Score: Within the first minute and again at five minutes after birth, your baby will be assessed using the Apgar score, which evaluates their heart rate, respiration, muscle tone, reflex response, and color.
• Umbilical Cord Cutting: The umbilical cord is clamped and cut, often by the partner or a designated family member.

Emotional Experience

1. Overwhelming Love

• Many parents describe the first look at their baby as an overwhelming surge of love and protectiveness. This moment is often filled with tears of joy and deep emotional connection.

2. Relief and Joy

• After the challenges of labor and delivery, seeing and holding your baby brings immense relief and joy. It’s a moment of triumph and celebration.

3. Bonding

• The first moments of bonding are crucial for both the baby and parents. Holding, touching, and talking to your newborn fosters a sense of security and attachment.

Practical Considerations

1. Photography and Keepsakes

• Many parents choose to capture the first moments with photographs or videos. Ensure that the camera is ready and that someone is designated to take these precious shots.

2. Visitors

• Decide in advance who you want to be present during these first moments. Some parents prefer privacy, while others welcome close family members.

3. Breastfeeding Initiation

• If you plan to breastfeed, the first hour after birth, often called the “golden hour,” is an ideal time to start. Skin-to-skin contact helps stimulate breastfeeding instincts in both mother and baby.

Conclusion

The first look at your baby is a magical moment that marks the beginning of a lifelong bond. Understanding what to expect can help you fully savor and cherish these initial moments. Embrace the emotions, take in every detail, and celebrate the arrival of your little one.

Message from Dr. Bushra Gul

Dear Patients,

The first look at your baby is a moment of immense joy and connection. Embrace this special time, and know that it’s perfectly normal to feel a range of emotions. We are here to support you and ensure that both you and your baby have the best possible start. If you have any questions or concerns about the first moments after birth, please feel free to reach out.