Becoming a parent is one of life’s most profound changes. It’s joyful, yes — but also messy, exhausting, and deeply emotional. As you adjust to caring for your baby, you may feel moments of wonder followed quickly by waves of self-doubt. That’s not a sign you’re doing it wrong — it’s a sign you’re simply becoming a parent!
As pediatrician Aja Bean, MD, puts it: “Becoming a parent rocks your world in every way — and it did for me, too, even as a pediatrician.”
No one knows your baby like you will. This guide is here to help you feel more prepared and less alone as you step into this new chapter.
The first 28 days — known as the neonatal period — can feel like a whirlwind. You’re adjusting to your new normal, your baby is adapting to the outside world, and every sound or symptom may raise questions. That’s natural.
If something feels off — or you just need reassurance — reach out. That’s what your pediatrician is there for.
Fed is best, and it’s up to you to make the feeding choice that’s right for your family. What matters most is that your baby is getting the nourishment they need, whether you’re breastfeeding, formula feeding, pumping, or doing a combo. While breastfeeding offers benefits, especially during the first six months, feeding your baby and keeping them healthy is the priority.
“People are surprised at how often newborns need to feed,” says Dr. Bean. Her rule of thumb? “Aim to feed every 2–3 hours and learn to identify your baby’s hunger cues.”
Newborns eat every 2–3 hours... at least! In the early days and weeks, they may have periods of cluster feeding and want to feed every 30-60 minutes. This is normal and a good sign — your baby is hard at work, growing bigger!
Breastfeeding babies typically feed for 10–15 minutes on each breast, every feed. Some babies aren’t as interested in the second side, but always try offering it. If they refuse or fall asleep, start on that side the next feed.
If you’re feeding formula or pumped breastmilk, your baby may start with an ounce or less per feed in the first few days. That should quickly increase to 2–3 ounces per feed.
Early signs a baby is getting hungry include:
As babies get hungrier, they may become more alert and fidgety before crying. Noticing early hunger cues is a good way to feed your baby before they reach the crying stage.
If you’re breastfeeding, it can be challenging at first. Latching issues, sore nipples, and milk supply concerns are common. It helps to stay hydrated, nourished, and rested. Keep a water bottle on nearby, grab snacks between meals if you’re hungry, and take naps when you can. Skin-to-skin contact with your baby can also help with milk supply.
Learning to breastfeed is a new skill you’ve never developed before — so be patient and know it may take some time to “master” it. Take advantage of help from a lactation consultant or your pediatrician.
When bottle feeding, babies tend to eat faster. If this is causing more gassiness or reflux, talk to your pediatrician about feeding techniques to try.
When to Call: If your baby isn’t gaining weight, isn’t waking to feed every 2–3 hours, is extra fussy, has blood in their stool, isn’t producing enough wet diapers (one per day the first 6 days, or 6+ per day after that), or other concerns, contact your pediatrician.
Newborn sleep is unpredictable and often fragmented. When you want to soothe your baby or encourage sleep, try the Five S’s from Dr. Harvey Karp.
Remember: You know your baby best. If they’re fussier than usual or something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and call your pediatrician.
Regular well-child visits monitor your baby’s growth, development and health. They’re also a great time to bring up any questions — no topic is too small.
“Nobody knows a child better than the parent,” says pediatrician Scott Moore, MD. “You are part of the treatment team, too.”
Immunizations protect against serious diseases that can be prevented. The AAP provides a trusted vaccine schedule to follow with your pediatrician. If you have any concerns about vaccines, bring them up with your pediatrician, who knows the latest evidence-based recommendations.
Even the most confident parent has moments of doubt. That’s part of the journey.
Finding trusted sources of parenting and health information can help ease some of your worries. Resist the urge to simply search symptoms on the internet — this can bring more anxiety than clarity. Instead, stick with reliable information from your pediatrician, the AAP, and websites like healthychildren.org, which is run by the AAP.
There is a natural change in hormones for birthing parents. Feeling weepy or overwhelmed in the first couple of weeks is common (often called the “baby blues”). Baby blues symptoms — worry, sadness, tiredness — usually resolve in a few days.
If these feelings persist or worsen, you may be experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety. This could look like crying more often than usual, feeling angry, or feeling distant from your baby. Please seek help through your pediatrician, primary care provider, OB-GYN, or therapist — you deserve support.
Accept help in ways that feel comfortable: a meal drop-off, a trusted visitor, a postpartum doula, or just a nap.Connecting with other new parents can make a big difference. Parenting is less overwhelming when you have someone to share it with, whether that’s a parenting or mom group, or other friends with kids.
You don’t need to wait for an emergency to call your pediatrician. If you’re unsure about something, it’s okay to ask.
Here are some signs you should call your pediatrician:
Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department for life-threatening symptoms, such as trouble breathing or persistent vomiting.
Choosing a pediatrician is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. They’re not just your baby’s doctor — they’re part of your parenting team. Look for someone you feel comfortable with: someone who listens, answers questions, and respects your parenting style.
You don’t have to do this alone. With a supportive pediatrician by your side, you can feel more confident and less overwhelmed as your baby grows.
You’re doing better than you think. Your baby doesn’t need perfect — they just need you.
Let this guide be a gentle reminder that parenting is a learning curve, not a test. And you’ve already taken the most important step: caring enough to seek answers.
Expecting? Find a Zarminali pediatrician who can answer all your first-time parent questions.