You may be surprised at what happens just after the baby is born. Many of us spend all our time focusing on pregnancy and birth that we don’t think about what will happen after the baby is born. We imagine holding and cuddling our new baby. You may be surprised at all the procedures and testing that take place after the baby is born.
The procedures after birth vary from state to state. There are some fairly common procedures that happen in most places around the United States. Some of these procedures and tests are mandated by the state. Others are done at the preference of the hospital or caregiver. Depending on where you give birth, you may be able to delay some of these to give you some time to bond with the baby.
I always feel sad about the process that takes place after the baby is born. It is said that birth is traumatic. It seems to me that the baby should have time to relax and bond with mom. Instead, he is taken and subjected to a variety of uncomfortable procedures.
In most states, drops are placed in the baby’s eyes soon after birth. These often contain erythromycin, which is an antibiotic. Silver nitrate is also used, but less commonly. There may be a small amount of burning. The baby’s sight will be blurred, making it a bit difficult to focus on you for a while.
Most babies are given a shot of Vitamin K shortly after they are born. The purpose of this is to aid in clotting of the blood. In some places, this is done to all babies. In other hospitals, it is only done if there are risk factors for bleeding, such as trauma during the birth. You may be able to request oral vitamin K, depending on where you live. If you are interested in this, discuss it with your pediatrician prior to the birth.
Your infant may receive her first vaccine in the hospital. Some states are routinely giving the first dose of the Hepatitis B vaccine while the baby is still in the hospital. If you are opposed to your baby receiving the shot so soon after birth, talk to your doctor. This can often be delayed until the one month or two month well baby visit.
Your newborn may be tested for metabolic disorders such as Phenylketonuria (PKU), Thalasemia and Galactosemia. This test is done by sticking the baby in the heel and drawing a small amount of blood. Some of these disorders, such as PKU, can be dangerous or even fatal. Screening can protect your baby from damage done by these disorders. Since PKU is genetic, you may know if your baby is at high risk.
Talk to your doctor about the screening, procedures and testing that is mandated by your state. Ask which may be done right away and which can be delayed for a short time. While screening can be important, so is time to relax and meet your new family member.