Is there anything more delightful and cuddly than a newborn? The first few days with my little ones were filled with joy, despite the challenges, discomfort, and overwhelming emotions that come with birth. It’s not always easy, but those tiny babies are simply perfect. The memories of holding a tiny, wrinkled newborn sleeping peacefully on my chest still bring me tranquility. Newborns truly are a slice of heaven, especially when they’re your own.
However, the reality of caring for a newborn can be daunting. They are fragile and completely dependent on you, often unable to communicate their needs. In fact, they don’t always cry when they’re hungry in those first few days. They arrive with an array of unexpected—yet mostly harmless—quirks that can catch new parents off guard.
For instance, a friend reminded me recently about how baby girls can experience vaginal bleeding at birth. If that had happened with my daughter, I might have panicked! It’s a common occurrence that many expectant parents may not be aware of. If you’re about to welcome a little one and haven’t been briefed on some of the surprises that may come your way, here’s a compilation of nine unusual but typically harmless things to expect with a newborn.
- Lactation Isn’t Just for Moms
Newborns of either gender may produce milk shortly after birth, known as “witch’s milk” or medically as “galactorrhea of the newborn.” This is due to hormonal changes and typically resolves on its own. Just inform your pediatrician if it occurs. - Female Babies Can Experience “Periods”
It can be alarming to find blood in your baby girl’s diaper, but this is normal. Some female newborns experience light bleeding, called “false menses,” due to hormonal fluctuations. This usually lasts only a couple of days. - Swollen Genitals in Baby Boys
It’s not uncommon for baby boys to emerge with swollen genitalia, sometimes humorously noted at birth. This can happen when fluid collects in the scrotum during delivery and usually resolves in a few months. - Look for a Sacral Dimple
My son was born with a sacral dimple, a small indentation at the base of the spine. While most are harmless, they can occasionally indicate a spinal abnormality, so it’s worth mentioning to your doctor. - Pinhole Ears or Ear Tags
Don’t be alarmed if you see a small pinhole or growth near your baby’s ear. These are known as preauricular pits and ear tags, which are generally harmless. If they cause any issues later, your doctor can assist. - Birthmarks Come in Many Forms
Many newborns have birthmarks, ranging from salmon patches (angel’s kisses) to hemangiomas. Most are harmless and may fade over time. If you notice any, mention them to your pediatrician for peace of mind. - Teeth at Birth?
Some babies are born with teeth, referred to as natal teeth. While they may require evaluation or removal, they are often benign, so there’s no need to worry. - Lanugo: The Furry Look
If your baby is born with a fine layer of hair called lanugo, don’t fret. It usually disappears shortly after birth, particularly if they arrive a bit early. - Extra Digits Can Happen
Surprisingly, some babies are born with extra fingers or toes, a condition known as polydactyly. While not dangerous, these extra digits may need surgical attention if they’re not securely attached.
This list is by no means exhaustive. Babies are full of surprises, and while you can prepare for many things, the unexpected is part of the journey. Fortunately, most of these differences are minor and easily addressed with your healthcare provider.
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Summary
Welcoming a newborn can be both magical and overwhelming. From unexpected body quirks like lactation in newborns to harmless birthmarks and even extra digits, there are many surprises that new parents may encounter. Understanding these common occurrences can ease concerns and help you navigate this exciting new chapter.