Thought Giving Birth Was the Hard Part? No! The First 7 Days with a Newborn are the Real Challenge! (Jaundice/Cord/Sleep)

Congratulations! If you've made it this far, you are ready for labor. But many moms ask the same question during the first week postpartum: "Why didn't anyone tell me it would be this tiring?!"

The first 30 days are often called "The 4th Trimester". Your baby is adjusting to life outside the womb, and chaos is normal. Let's preview the 3 biggest hurdles new parents face so you won't panic!

 Still worried about labor pain?
Don't let fear ruin your mood! Understand your options like Epidural first, so you can be confident in the delivery room.
Read: "Labor Pain Relief Guide: Epidural, Gas & Pethidine"

1. Jaundice (Demam Kuning) - Very Common!

Over 60% of newborns in Malaysia develop Jaundice (yellowish skin) on Day 2 or 3.

Survival Tip:
Do not blindly follow myths like "sunbathing" or giving water/glucose! In our hot weather, this causes dehydration. The best cure is frequent breastfeeding (pooping removes bilirubin). If levels are high, please listen to the doctor and do Phototherapy. High jaundice can affect brain development, so don't delay!

2. Umbilical Cord Care (Tali Pusat) - Scary & Smelly?

New parents are terrified of the belly button! The cord stump will turn black, dry up, and fall off in 7-14 days.

Survival Tip:
Keeping it DRY is key! After a bath, use alcohol swabs (given by the hospital) to clean the base. Never use powder or cover it with the diaper. If you smell a foul odor or see pus/redness, see a doctor immediately.

3. Day/Night Confusion (Zombie Mode)

Babies don't have a circadian rhythm yet. In the first few weeks, they often "party at night and sleep all day".

Survival Tip:
Don't expect 8 hours of sleep. During the day, keep the room bright and noisy while feeding. At night, keep it dark and quiet. Help them adjust slowly. Most importantly: Sleep when the baby sleeps! Leave the chores to your husband or confinement lady.

A New Beginning for Your Family

Pregnancy ends here, but your parenting journey has just begun. Facing a fragile newborn can be overwhelming, and that's okay. Be patient with yourself and support each other.

Newparents Malaysia will be here with you, helping you grow from a rookie to a pro parent!