In this guide, we explain the common rashes in newborns, which ones are normal, and in which cases you should consult a doctor.

1. What Causes Newborn Rashes?

• Immaturity of the skin barrier
• Effect of maternal hormones
• Late adaptation of the baby to body temperature and environment
• New skin flora begins to form

2. Normal (Physiological) Newborn Rashes

These rashes do not require treatment and will resolve on their own.

2.1. Toxic Erythema

• It is the most common rash.
• It usually starts 1–2 days after birth.
• It is in the form of small yellow-white blisters and rashes.
• In most babies, it disappears noticeably within 1–2 weeks.
• Some babies may experience an intermittent rash for up to 2–3 weeks.

2.2. Milia (Whitehead rash)

• It is in the form of small white dots on the nose and face.
• It disappears on its own within weeks.

2.3. Yenidoğan Aknesi

• There may be small red pimple-like rashes on the cheeks.
• It occurs due to sensitivity to maternal hormones.
• It usually resolves within 2–3 months.

2.4. Sebaceous Gland Enlargement (Sebaceous Hyperplasia)

• It is in the form of small yellowish bumps on the tip of the nose and on the face.
• It is completely normal; It disappears within weeks.

2.5. Transient Neonatal Pustular Melanosis

• Pustules may be present at birth; After bursting, small darkly pigmented spots may remain.
• Pigments fade within weeks–months.

2.6. Mongolian Spot (Dermal Melanosis)

• It is in the form of blue-gray spots on the waist, hips and back.
• It can be confused with trauma, but it is completely innocent.
• It disappears in most babies between the ages of 1 and 4.

2.7. Cutis Marmorata (Mottled Skin Appearance)

• When a baby gets cold, a web-like purple-red pattern may appear on the skin.
• It disappears when it warms up.

2.8. Heat Rash (Miliaria/Heat Rash)

• It develops as a result of excessive dressing or sweating.
• It is in the form of small red rashes.
• It will go away on its own with a cool environment and thin dressing.

3. Pathological (Requiring Attention) Newborn Rashes

3.1. Herpes Simplex Rash

• It is in the form of grouped water-filled vesicles.
• It may be accompanied by fever, malaise and malaise.
• It requires urgent evaluation.

3.2. Bacterial Rashes

• Yellow crusting with a “honeycomb” appearance is typical.
• There may be redness and rapidly expanding areas.

3.3. Candidiasis (Yeast Infection)

• A bright red rash appears in the gland area and satellite lesions appear at the edges.
• It requires treatment.

3.4. Allergic/Atopic Rashes

• Usually in the 6th to 8th months of life. It starts in the week.
• There may be dry, red and itchy plaques on the cheeks.

3.5. Rashes That Are an Emergency Warning Sign

• Widespread bruising (purpura)
• Large water filled bubbles
• rapidly spreading rash
• Rash with fever
• Baby in poor general condition

4. Which Rash is Normal and Which is Dangerous?

5. When Should You Consult a Doctor?

• If the rash is accompanied by fever, inability to suck, or restlessness
• If the rash spreads rapidly
• If there are large water-filled blisters
• If bruising or bleeding rash appears
• If there are lesions in the eyes, mouth or genital area
• If there is a rash that does not subside within 1–2 weeks or worsens

6. Home Care Suggestions

• Do not overdress the baby; sweating can increase rashes.
• You can take a short bath with warm water.
• Do not use perfumed soaps and lotions.
• Do not apply cream, ointment or powder randomly to the skin.
• Keep the diaper area clean and dry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many days does toxic erythema last?

It usually disappears noticeably within 1–2 weeks; In some babies, the rash may persist intermittently for up to 2–3 weeks.

Are newborn rashes contagious?

Rashes that are considered physiological, that is, normal, are not contagious. Rashes caused by infection can be contagious.

Does neonatal acne require treatment?

Most of the time no. It usually disappears spontaneously within 2–3 months.

Does Mongolian stain go away?

In most babies, it gradually fades and disappears between the ages of 1 and 4.

How do I know if the rash is dangerous?

If there is fever, weakness, inability to suckle, bruising, large blisters or rapid spread, it should be evaluated.

Can I apply cream to my baby's rash at home?

Creams containing cortisone, antibiotics or heavy ingredients should not be used unless recommended by a doctor. Most physiological rashes require no treatment.

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Why is 48–72 Hours Important?

In the first days after birth, the baby's body temperature, circulatory system and metabolism change rapidly. Bilirubin breakdown increases, weight loss becomes evident, and milk flow is just beginning. For this reason, the safest period evaluation is between the 2nd and 3rd days of life. During the check-up, the physician; It examines in detail the weight loss percentage, degree of jaundice, nutritional efficiency and sleep safety.

Weight Loss Assessment

Weight loss of 5–10% of newborns is considered normal. However, a loss above 10% may mean alarm. The following parameters are checked during the examination:

• Mother's milk production and breastfeeding status
• Signs of dehydration (decreased urination, dry mouth, fatigue)
• Weak sucking reflex
• Daily urine and stool count monitoring

If necessary, position support, a frequent breastfeeding plan and a weight tracking chart are created for the mother. In case of excessive weight loss, the hydration and nutrition plan is rearranged.

Jaundice (Bilirubin) Follow-up

Jaundice usually occurs on days 2–4. It rises in days and can sometimes reach dangerous levels quickly. Because 48–72 days after the first examination. done per hour It is vital to catch the increase in bilirubin early.

The following evaluations are made during the control:

• Degree of jaundice of skin and sclera
• Transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) measurement
• Serum bilirubin test when necessary
• Call for a recheck within 24 hours for babies at risk

Delayed bilirubin elevation may progress to the risk of kernicterus. For this reason, the symptoms of jaundice and the thresholds for re-application must be explained to the family.

Breastfeeding and Nutrition Control

One of the most important goals of this visit is to evaluate the effectiveness of nutrition. In control:

• Baby's sucking-reflex power
• Nozzle grip and latch quality
• Milk passing rate and swallowing-breathing synchronization
• Maternal nipple condition and pain assessment

Frequently made suggestions:

• Active breastfeeding every 2–3 hours
• Breast grip-position training for the mother
• Providing breastfeeding support before starting complementary feeding
• Daily monitoring of urine and stool count

Vitamin D Support

According to the Turkish Ministry of Health guide, 400 IU/day for all babies vitamin D should be started. During the first examination, the method of use is explained to the family and regular follow-up is recommended.

SIDS and Safe Sleep Education

A significant portion of newborn deaths are related to incorrect sleeping position. During this meeting, safe sleep rules are conveyed to parents:

• The baby should be put to sleep on its back
• Sleeping in the same bed is not recommended
• Room temperature should be kept between 21–23°C
• Pillows, plush toys and thick quilts are not used.
• The baby should not be placed on a soft surface

When Should You Come for a Recheck?

Depending on the situation, a re-examination may be planned within 2-5 days. In the following period, monthly healthy child follow-up is started. Weight gain, nutrition, neuromotor development and vaccination program are followed with the family.

This article is for informational purposes. Diagnosis and treatment should only be evaluated by a physician.

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Causes of Breastfeeding Problems

👩‍⚕️ Mother Origin

• Late or low milk supply
• Nipple problems (flat, sunken nipple)
• Wrong breastfeeding position
• Stress, fatigue and anxiety

👶 Baby Origin

• Prematurity or low birth weight (poor sucking reflex)
• Intraoral anatomical problems (tongue tie, palate problems)
• Sleepy, passive babies
• Nasal congestion or postpartum respiratory adaptation

symptoms

• The baby has difficulty latching on to the breast
• Sucking for a short time and getting tired quickly
• Restlessness or dissatisfaction after breastfeeding
• Decreased daily urine output (less than 6 wet diapers per day)
• Continued weight loss

The Importance of Breastfeeding in the First Hour (Golden Hour)

According to WHO and UNICEF, skin-to-skin contact of the baby with the mother in the first hour after birth and initiation of breastfeeding increases breastfeeding success and milk production. This process is especially critical in babies who have difficulty breastfeeding.

Common Mistakes

• Giving water or formula before breastfeeding
• Premature feeding of a bottle or pacifier (nipple confusion)
• Using wrong nipple creams or soaps
• Keeping breastfeeding intervals too long

Things to Do at Home

1. Correct breastfeeding position
   • The baby's face should be turned towards the breast, and his body should be kept close to the mother.
   • Cradle grip, side grip or cross grip can be tried.
2. skin to skin contact

   Naked skin contact between mother and baby increases milk flow and strengthens the sucking reflex.

3. try often

   It is more effective to attach the baby to the breast in calm moments without leaving him too hungry.

4. Expressing breast milk

   In cases where the baby has difficulty breastfeeding, milk can be expressed and given using methods other than a bottle (cup, spoon, syringe).

Maternal Nipple Cracks and Abscess Risk

• Crack alone does not prevent breastfeeding. Breastfeeding should be continued with correct position and care.
• Expressing a few drops of milk and applying it to the nipple before breastfeeding, moisturizing with lanolin-based creams and breast milk helps heal cracks.
• Actual contraindication: The cracks progress turning into an abscess In this case, breastfeeding from the relevant breast is interrupted. During this process, milk should be expressed and started again after treatment.

True and False Contraindications of Breastfeeding

Actual Contraindications (WHO & AAP 2022)

• Galactosemia (rare metabolic disease)
• HIV infection (varies depending on country policies, not recommended in Turkey)
• Maternal chemotherapy or radiotherapy treatment
• If the mother uses heavy psychoactive drugs or illegal substances
• Breast abscess (temporary contraindication from the affected breast)

False Contraindications

• Mother cold, flu
• Maternal antibiotic therapy (most medications are compatible with breastfeeding)
• Mastitis (breastfeeding from uninfected breast should be continued)
• breast milk jaundice
• Mild jaundice in baby

Supports for Mother

• Drinking plenty of fluids and eating a balanced diet
• Breast massage or warm shower before breastfeeding
• Stress management: If the mother is relaxed, milk flow becomes easier
• Getting breastfeeding consultant support

When should you see a doctor?

• The baby does not suck at all or constantly refuses to suckle
• Inadequate weight gain or weight loss
• Urinating less than 6 times a day
• Vomiting, bloody stools, bruising
• Severe restlessness and non-stop crying

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. My newborn baby has difficulty sucking the breast, is it normal?
   It can be seen frequently in the first days. With the right position and patience, most babies recover in a short time.
2. Does tongue tie cause difficulty sucking?
   Yes. Tongue tie may reduce suction power. A pediatrician or ENT specialist should evaluate it.
3. I feel like I don't have enough milk, what should I do?
   Breastfeeding the baby frequently, drinking enough fluids and managing stress increases milk supply.
4. Is my baby breastfeeding but constantly restless and not getting enough?
   Monitoring the baby's weight and daily urine count shows that the baby is full. If in doubt, a doctor's check is necessary.
5. If I have to give formula, should I give up breast milk?
   No. Breast milk is always priority. Formula should only be used as a supplement with a doctor's recommendation.
6. Why do premature babies have difficulty breastfeeding?
   Because the coordination of sucking-swallowing-breathing is weak. These babies require special methods and close monitoring.
7. My nipple is flat, my baby can hardly latch on. What can I do?
   Support can be provided with a chest shield or appropriate apparatus. It is useful to get help from a lactation consultant.
8. My baby does not want to breastfeed while sleeping, is this normal?
   Newborns tend to sleep. Feeding can be tried by gently awakening (diaper changing, light touch).
9. Is it right to express my milk?
   It is beneficial for the baby's weight gain. However, if possible, contact with the mother's breast should continue.
10. I have breast cracks, should I continue breastfeeding?
    Yes. Crack does not prevent breastfeeding. However, if an abscess develops in advanced cases, that breast is temporarily suspended.

🍼 Conclusion and Call

Every baby's sucking habit is different. Problems such as breast cracks, difficult breastfeeding, and lack of milk can often be solved with the right methods.

In our clinic, one-on-one breastfeeding training is provided by our neonatal nurse, and mothers are taught the correct techniques. We are at your service for newborn follow-up and breastfeeding consultancy in Izmir Alsancak.

📚 Resources

• World Health Organization (WHO). Exclusive breastfeeding for optimal growth, development and health of infants. 2023.
• American Academy of Pediatrics. Policy Statement: Breastfeeding and the Use of Human Milk. Pediatrics, 2022.
• T.R. Ministry of Health, Baby Friendly Health Institutions Program, 2023.
• Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews: Interventions for promoting the initiation of breastfeeding, 2020.
• Cochrane Review: Management of Breast Abscesses, 2018.

İlgili hizmet: İzmir yenidoğan muayenesi

Meeting with the pediatrician before birth both reduces the risks and ensures that your baby is welcomed safely as soon as it is born. But not only that... Other preparations before birth also play a critical role in the health of the mother and the baby.

In this article, you will find what to pay attention to before birth, why the meeting with the pediatrician is so important, and recommendations from around the world.

1. General Prenatal Preparations

1.1. Birth Bag and Basic Needs

Clothes for expectant mothers, first clothes for the baby, blankets, diapers, wet wipes and basic care materials are indispensable parts of the birth kit. It is comforting to make these preparations in advance to avoid panic at the time of birth.

1.2. Checks for Maternal Health

Routine checks, ultrasound follow-ups and blood tests recommended by your gynecologist should not be missed during pregnancy. Vitamin and mineral supplements also support the healthy development of the baby throughout pregnancy.

1.3. Psychological Preparation and Family Support

Birth is a major process not only medically but also psychologically. The support of the spouse and family is very important for the expectant mother to feel strong. One of the most effective ways to reduce anxiety is to know in advance how the process will proceed and to have confidence.

2. Prenatal Meeting with the Pediatrician

This is perhaps the most critical step of prenatal preparations. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that families meet with their pediatrician during the third trimester of pregnancy. This meeting ensures that the postpartum process progresses in a safer and planned manner.

2.1. Purpose of the Meeting

• Family history is taken and genetic or hereditary risks are evaluated.
• The baby's first examination after birth is planned.
• The family is given brief information about postnatal screening and vaccinations.
• Possible risks (premature birth, low birth weight, multiple pregnancy) are reviewed.
• The road map to be followed in case of emergency is shared with the family.

2.2. Feeling of Confidence

This interview is not just medical information for the family; It is also a psychological preparation. At the time of birth, “Who will take care of my baby?” The question disappears and the family prepares for the birth safely.

3. Preparation for Risky and Risk-Free Births

Most babies adjust easily to postpartum life. But scientific data shows that one in every 20 babies (5%) needs additional support at birth.

• Preterm babies
• low birth weight babies
• Babies with congenital anomalies
• Babies who experience meconium aspiration at birth

Moreover, even babies without risk factors may experience respiratory distress, cardiac arrhythmia, or other unexpected problems at birth.

Therefore, at every birth:

• A pediatrician to meet the baby
• Medical team trained in neonatal resuscitation (NRP)
• Necessary equipment must be available

4. Choosing the Right Hospital and the Right Team

Not every hospital's facilities are the same. The answers to the following questions should be clear before birth:

• Is there a neonatal intensive care unit in this hospital?
• Are the necessary devices available in case of emergency?
• Is an experienced neonatal team available at any time?

The pediatrician guides the family on these issues. If there is a possibility of risky birth, you can be referred to a pre-equipped center. These decisions should be made before birth, not when labor begins.

5. Approaches in the World and in Turkey

• AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics): Recommends a prenatal meeting with the pediatrician in the third trimester.
• WHO: Emphasizes that all births should be carried out in well-equipped centers and accompanied by a team knowledgeable in neonatal resuscitation.
• Canadian and European guidelines: In high-risk births, it is recommended that the pediatrician be present at the birth, and in others, it is recommended to be examined as soon as possible.
• Türkiye: The Ministry of Health has made newborn screenings mandatory. Prenatal consultation with the pediatrician is not yet routine; but it is preferred by more and more families.

6. The Most Common Mistakes Families Make

• Focusing only on clothing and room preparation.
• Starting to look for a pediatrician after birth.
• Not researching hospital facilities.
• Underestimating screening tests and initial examination.

7. Checklist for Families

• ✔ Make a prenatal appointment with your pediatrician.
• ✔ Learn about the newborn facilities of the hospital where you will give birth.
• ✔ Ask about alternative centers for risky situations.
• ✔ Write down your postpartum questions in advance.
• ✔ Prepare your birth bag and documents.

8. Most Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) by Families

• Is it necessary to meet with the pediatrician before birth? Yes, it is essential to learn about postpartum preparations in advance.
• Should a pediatrician be present at the birth? Yes, there must be a pediatrician to meet the baby at every birth.
• Is the midwife competent for birth? He or she can manage the birth, but a pediatrician is essential to evaluate the newborn.
• If there is no risk factor, is preparation still required? Yes, even 5% of babies who seem risk-free may require additional support at birth.
• When is the first examination performed after birth? As soon as the baby is born, the first examination is performed by the pediatrician.
• Why is choosing a prenatal hospital important? Giving birth in a center equipped according to the baby's needs provides confidence.
• What is discussed at the first meeting with the pediatrician? Information is given about the initial examination, screening and vaccinations, and possible risks are evaluated.

For additional questions, you can call our clinic and consult directly.

9. Conclusion

The most important preparation you make before birth is the meeting with your pediatrician. Thanks to this meeting, the moment of birth and its aftermath become much safer.

• Surprises decrease after birth.
• Possible risks are known in advance.
• The right team and the right hospital are selected.

Don't forget to take this step to give your baby a healthy start to life.

In Izmir Alsancak Dr. Salih Aydemir ClinicYou can safely get information about prenatal preparation and newborn care at.

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The first 60 seconds after birth, the Golden Minute, is the most critical time for your baby to step into a healthy life. Applications made during this period; It plays a decisive role in the baby's breathing, circulation, temperature balance and initial bonding process. The World Health Organization (WHO), American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG), American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), CDC and Turkish Neonatology Association (TND) particularly emphasize the importance of this period.

Why is the Golden Minute Important?

neonatal adaptation

– Doğumla birlikte bebekte solunum, dolaşım ve ısı regülasyonu hızla devreye girer.
– Bu dönemde yapılan basit uygulamalar, ömür boyu sağlık üzerinde kalıcı etkilere sahiptir.

Golden Minute in international guides

– WHO ve ACOG, Altın Dakika’da geciktirilmiş kordon klemplemeyi önermektedir.
– AAP ve TND, Vitamin K uygulaması ve Hepatit B aşısını doğum sonrası ilk saatlerde zorunlu kabul etmektedir.
– Sağlık Bakanlığı Yenidoğan İzlem Protokolü’nde de “Altın Dakika” kavramı açıkça yer alır.

Routine Practices in Healthy Babies

Delaying the cord

The cord is cut after waiting 30-60 seconds after birth. Additional blood flow to the baby occurs, and hemoglobin and iron stores increase. It reduces the risk of intraventricular bleeding in preterm babies.

Drying and removing wet covers

Wet linens are quickly removed and the baby is dried. The risk of hypothermia is reduced.

Putting on a hat and gloves

It is applied to prevent heat loss from the head and extremities.

skin-to-skin contact

The baby is laid on the mother's breast and a warm blanket is covered on her back. Thermal balance is maintained, bonding is strengthened, and breastfeeding becomes easier.

eye care

Prophylaxis is performed to prevent eye infections.

Vitamin K injection

It prevents neonatal bleeding (VKDB).

Hepatitis B vaccine

It reduces the risk of transmitting the virus from mother to baby. It is recommended to do it in the first 24 hours.

first examination

The baby's vital signs such as breathing, pulse, and muscle tone are evaluated. Weight, height and head circumference are measured. Congenital anomalies and trauma findings are checked.

Special Situations

Babies born prematurely

Although basic care is similar, additional precautions are needed to prevent hypothermia and respiratory problems.

Babies with health problems

Resuscitation and additional interventions may be performed in babies with low Apgar scores, birth trauma, or risk of severe infection.

Risk factors in the mother

In cases of hepatitis B, HIV or active infections, the baby's care protocol is specially regulated.

Prominent Findings in the Literature

– Geciktirilmiş kordon klempleme → daha yüksek hemoglobin ve demir depoları (ACOG, 2020).
– Ten-tene temas → hipotermi riskinde %70 azalma, emzirme başarısında artış (WHO, 2017).
– Vitamin K uygulanmayan bebeklerde → geç tip VKDB ve beyin içi kanama riski belirgin yüksek (AAP, 2022).
– Hepatit B aşısı → doğumda yapılmazsa anneden geçiş riski %90’a kadar çıkabilir; aşılanan bebeklerde %10’un altına düşer (CDC, 2023).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Why isn't the baby washed immediately during the Golden Minute?

Because early bathing causes the baby to lose heat. Thermal balance is maintained by drying and skin-to-skin contact.

Is late cord cutting harmful?

No. On the contrary, it increases the baby's blood volume. The only risk is that the chance of jaundice increases slightly. This can be managed with follow-up and phototherapy.

Is Vitamin K injection mandatory? Does it have any side effects?

Vitamin K injections are the gold standard for preventing neonatal bleeding. It has no serious side effects.

What happens if the hepatitis B vaccine is not given at birth?

If the mother is a Hepatitis B carrier, the probability of transmission to the baby increases to 90% if the vaccine is not given at birth.

Is the Golden Minute applied the same for premature babies?

Yes, the core practices remain the same; however, additional precautions are taken for hypothermia and respiratory support.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Golden Minute practices—cord lagging, drying, hat and gloves, skin-to-skin contact, eye care, Vitamin K injection, Hepatitis B vaccine, and initial examination—should be routine for all healthy babies.

Although care for premature babies or babies with health problems is basically similar, additional interventions may be required.

 To get more information about Golden Minute and newborn care, you can contact our clinic in Izmir Alsancak.

Source

1. ACOG Committee Opinion No. 814: Delayed Umbilical Cord Clamping After Birth, 2020.

2. WHO. Delayed umbilical cord clamping for improved maternal and infant health outcomes. 2014.

3. American Academy of Pediatrics. Vitamin K and the Newborn Infant. Pediatrics, 2022.

4. CDC. Hepatitis B Perinatal Vaccine Guidance. 2023.

5. Turkish Neonatology Association. Newborn Resuscitation Guide and Clinical Practice Recommendations.

6. T.R. Ministry of Health. National Immunization Schedule and Newborn Surveillance Protocols.

Golden Minute, newborn care, delayed cord cutting, Vitamin K injection, Hepatitis B vaccine, skin-to-skin contact, eye care, baby examination, Izmir pediatrician, neonatal doctor

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📅

Yenidoğan Kontrol Takvimi (İlk Aylar):

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