The moment you've been waiting for has finally arrived — your baby is here! Those first 48 hours after baby arrival are filled with joy, discovery, and a whirlwind of emotions. For new parents, it’s an unforgettable (and sometimes overwhelming) experience.
To help ease the transition, this new parents guide breaks down what you can expect in the first two days with your newborn, along with practical newborn tips to help you feel more prepared and confident.
The First Hour: The “Golden Hour” After Birth
Immediately after delivery, your baby enters the world and begins adjusting to life outside the womb. This first hour is known as the "golden hour", a critical time for bonding and breastfeeding.
What to Expect:
- Skin-to-skin contact - Most hospitals encourage placing baby directly on your chest after birth. This helps regulate body temperature, heart rate, and promotes bonding.
- Delayed cord clamping - Unless urgent care is needed, many hospitals delay clamping the umbilical cord to allow extra blood flow to your baby.
- First feeding - Whether breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, your baby may attempt their first feed during this time.
Newborn Tip: Keep your baby close and let them rest on you. This quiet bonding time is essential for emotional connection and helps ease baby’s transition.
Feeding and Diapering in the First 24 Hours
Feeding and diapering are top priorities in your baby’s first day. Don’t be alarmed if your baby only feeds small amounts initially. Their stomach is tiny — about the size of a cherry!
Feeding Expectations:
- Colostrum - If you're breastfeeding, your body produces a nutrient-rich first milk called colostrum. It’s packed with antibodies and perfect for your baby.
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Feeding frequency - Newborns feed every 2–3 hours. Some may be sleepy and need gentle waking to nurse.
Diapering:
- Meconium stools: Baby’s first poops are black and tar-like — this is normal and called meconium.
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Wet diapers: Expect 1–2 wet diapers in the first 24 hours, increasing to 6–8 per day over the next week.
Newborn Tip: Track feedings and diaper changes in a notebook or app. It helps doctors monitor your baby’s health and gives you peace of mind.
Baby’s First Medical Checks
Soon after baby arrival, several standard tests and procedures will be performed to ensure your newborn is healthy.
Routine Evaluations
- APGAR score - This test measures your baby’s breathing, heart rate, and muscle tone right after birth.
- Weight and measurements - Baby’s weight, length, and head circumference are recorded.
- Vitamin K injection & eye ointment - These protect against bleeding and infection.
- Hearing test & heel-prick screening - These may be done in the first 24–48 hours to detect early health conditions.
Newborn Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask the hospital staff to explain every procedure. You have the right to know and give informed consent.
Sleep Patterns in the First 48 Hours
Don’t expect long stretches of sleep — for baby or you. Newborns sleep up to 16–18 hours a day, but usually in short bursts of 1–3 hours.
Common Patterns
- Sleepy bay - Some newborns are very sleepy after birth and may need encouragement to feed.
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Day/night confusion - It’s normal for babies to have their days and nights mixed up initially.
Newborn Tip: Sleep when your baby sleeps, even if it’s just a quick nap. This will help you stay rested during the adjustment period.
Emotional Rollercoaster for Parents
The baby arrival journey can bring intense joy — and equally intense exhaustion. Hormones, physical recovery, and emotional shifts are all normal.
New Mom Emotions
- Baby blues - It’s normal to feel overwhelmed or teary in the first few days due to hormonal changes.
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Postpartum recovery - Expect vaginal bleeding, cramping, and discomfort, especially if you had stitches or a C-section.
New Dad/Partner Role
- Support and bonding - Take part in diaper changes, cuddling, and soothing baby.
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Emotional adjustment - Fathers and partners may also experience stress or emotional changes.
Newborn Tip: Communicate openly with your partner and ask for help. Don’t be afraid to lean on nurses, lactation consultants, or family for support.
Preparing to Go Home
Discharge typically happens within 24–48 hours after a vaginal birth (or longer for C-sections). Before leaving the hospital, you’ll be guided through next steps for baby care.
Final Hospital Tasks
- Pediatrician selection - You’ll need to schedule baby’s first checkup within a few days.
- Discharge instructions - These include feeding tips, safe sleep practices, and signs of concern to watch for.
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Car seat check - Make sure your infant car seat is correctly installed.
Newborn Tip: Install your car seat at least a few weeks before your due date and have it checked by a certified technician if possible.
Final Thoughts
The first 48 hours with your newborn are filled with “firsts” — first cries, first feeding, first cuddles. It can be exhausting, yes, but also magical. Try to stay present, trust your instincts, and give yourself grace.
Quick FAQ for New Parents
Q: What’s the most important thing to do right after the baby arrives?
A: Skin-to-skin contact and initiating feeding are top priorities.
Q: Is it normal for my baby to sleep a lot in the first 48 hours?
A: Yes. Newborns sleep most of the day in short intervals.
Q: What if I’m having trouble breastfeeding?
A: Ask for help from the hospital’s lactation consultant or a nurse — you’re not alone.