About Your Baby

The birth of your baby is one of the most exciting moments in your life and will provide you with memories which will last a lifetime. It can also be filled with much anxiety and apprehension as you are facing unknown issues. We hope you will allow Springhill Medical Center, along with your healthcare provider, to be a resource for information when questions arise.

During your hospital stay, your baby will spend time in your room as you get to know each other. Our Nursery is comprised of the regular Newborn Nursery and a Level 2 Special Care Nursery. These nurseries were designed to provide optimum care and optimum security of your newborn. All entrances to the Nursery are locked. Your newborn will be fitted with a security sensor bracelet for further protection.

During the first days of life, your newborn will be adjusting to a new environment, even though it may appear that he or she has little energy for anything besides sleeping. In fact, many newborns even seem unwilling to eat during the first few days. It is perfectly normal for them to experience a 5-7% weight loss at this time due to fluid loss. Your baby will regain lost weight and begin to gain weight in a very short time. Your new baby needs to eat 8-12 times in a 24 hour period.  We will help you monitor this closely to ensure your baby is getting adequate nutrition. 

While you are in the hospital, your baby will undergo many tests and assessments. Many of these are required by law. Your baby will have blood tests for inherited metabolic disorders such as phenylketonuria (PKU) and galactosemia and also for thyroid function and abnormal hemoglobins. While all of these disorders are very rare, early diagnosis can significantly improve the outcome for these babies. Prior to discharge, your baby also will be given a screening test for hearing. Your Mother-Baby nurse can give you the results of these tests. You will find your Mother-Baby nurses to be wonderful resources for your baby care questions while you are in the hospital.