THE ESSENTIAL
- An infant’s immune system is still immature. Before touching it, you must wash your hands so as not to transmit viruses and bacteria to it.
- Second-hand smoke increases the risk of developing asthma, chest and ear infections, and sudden infant death syndrome in babies.
- During the first months of life, infants’ neck muscles are not yet well developed.
Are you about to meet your niece, godson or even the baby of your childhood friend? It is a moment rich in emotions, which you will surely remember all your life. But, during this meeting, it can be difficult to know what to do or what is expected of you, especially if you have not had the opportunity to occupy yourself or spend a lot of time with newborns. or if it is the first time you have seen and held a child in your arms. For this meeting to go perfectly, Sarah Smith, midwife and lecturer at Anglia Ruskin University (United Kingdom) reveals some advice to follow, in an article published on The Conversation.
Wash your hands and ask parents for permission before touching the baby
Before picking up an infant, it is essential to wash your hands with soap and water to avoid transmitting contagious diseases. As a reminder, “Babies have an immature immune system and find it difficult to fight off bacteria and viruses. (…) Some viruses are relatively harmless to us, but can cause more serious problems in babies. The herpes virus can be passed on to a baby if you kiss them while you have a cold sore, which can be very dangerous for newborn babies.” said the specialist.
Another advice: ask the parents’ agreement before touching their child. “While it’s tempting to give a newborn baby lots of hugs from a friend or loved one, remember that being held in a parent’s arms helps them bond. to them. Familiar smells and sounds calm the newborn and help him feel safe”, said Sarah Smith.
Get rid of traces of tobacco before the meeting
The midwife reminds that it is not advisable to smoke next to an infant, as inhaling second-hand smoke increases the risk of developing asthma, chest and ear infections and sudden death of the infant. “Wait at least 30 minutes after smoking before picking up a baby. Cigarette smoke also stays on clothes. So remember to change after smoking and before visiting parents and baby,” she added.
Hold the child’s head well when carrying it
Sarah Smith also pointed out that, during the first months of life, babies had not yet developed all the muscles in their necks and that their heads were relatively heavy. Thus, if we take a toddler in our arms, it is very important to hold his head and neck well. “If you’ve never carried a baby before, you can ask a parent to place them in your arms while you’re comfortably seated, which will make the experience less stressful for you and the baby.”
