The Look of Your New Baby

Every baby is unique. In the first few days, you may notice things about your baby’s appearance that surprise you—but most are completely normal and temporary.

Baby’s Head

• There are two soft spots: one near the front and one near the back of the skull.
• The head may be cone-shaped from passing through the birth canal—this improves within a few days.
• Swelling or discoloration from delivery is common and fades on its own.
• Hair loss in the first weeks is normal and temporary.

Baby’s Eyes

• Eye color may change during the first six months.
• Eyelids may look swollen or watery after birth.
• A small amount of blood on the white part of the eye can happen and usually clears up on its own.
• Leaking or crusting around the eyes is common—wipe gently with a clean, warm cloth, especially after naps.
• Babies see best up close at first. Hold your baby close, talk, and sing to them. Simple black-and-white patterns can be fun for newborns to look at.

Baby’s Skin

• Newborns can develop rashes easily, most of which are harmless.
• Ask your care team if you notice any skin changes during your hospital stay.
• Around 3–6 weeks, many babies get “baby acne” that clears up on its own.
• Diaper rashes are common—keep the area clean and dry, and use diaper cream as needed.
• If a rash looks painful or doesn’t improve, call your baby’s provider.

Baby’s Ears

• Ears may be soft or floppy at first but will firm up over time.
• Babies can hear at birth—they recognize your voice and may startle at loud sounds.

Baby’s Mouth

• A small blister may appear from feeding; it will go away once your baby starts drinking from a cup.
• Tiny white bumps along the gums are normal.
• Some babies are even born with teeth, though it’s uncommon.

Hiccups

Nearly all babies get hiccups, especially after eating. This is normal and will become less frequent after the first month.

Sneezing and Stuffy Nose

• Frequent sneezing helps babies clear their tiny noses—it doesn’t mean they’re sick.
• A stuffy nose is common and usually fine to leave alone if your baby is comfortable and eating well.

Hormones

Babies are born with some of their mother’s hormones still in their system. This can cause:

• Swollen breasts or genitals, which will go down on their own. If the area becomes red, hot, or painful, call your baby’s provider.
• A small amount of vaginal discharge in baby girls.
• A large scrotum (the pouch that holds the testicles) at birth, which will shrink over time.