Bringing your baby home is one of life’s most special memories, but it can also feel overwhelming. In those first few days after birth, everything is new, for all of you. At My Expert Midwife, we believe in keeping things simple, supportive, and real, so here’s what you need to know about caring for your newborn in those early days.

One of the most powerful things you can do is hold your baby close, their skin in direct contact with your skin. It helps regulate theirs and your temperature, heart rate, and breathing, and aids bonding and feeding. Whether you choose to breastfeed or bottle-feed, skin-to-skin is a calming comfort for you both.

Newborn tummies are tiny (the size of a marble the day they are born), so frequent feeding is completely normal. Whether breast, formula, or expressed milk, follow your baby’s cues—they’ll let you know when they’re hungry. If you're unsure or finding it tough, reach out to your midwife or infant feeding team, they will be there to support you.

Wet and dirty nappies are a great way to know your baby is feeding well. Expect 1-2 wet nappies on day one, increasing to 5 or more by day five. The colour of their poo will change from sticky black (meconium) to mustardy yellow as your breastmilk comes in and takes over from the colostrum.

Your baby has just left the womb, so they love the reassurance of warmth, closeness, and soft voices. Try to keep your environment calm and respond to your baby’s needs with cuddles, rocking, skin-to-skin, or feeding.Your baby is learning to feel safe in the world, and their space place is with you.

Looking after your baby starts with looking after yourself. Rest when you can, eat nourishing food, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. These early days are about recovery, connection, and learning, there’s no ‘right’ way to do things. Take things at your pace but remember you cannot pour from an empty cup, so you-time is non-negotiable and is so important to your recovery.

You know your baby better than anyone, even in the first few days. Trust your instincts, take each day as it comes, and remember that you are doing an incredible job. And if you’re ever unsure, My Expert Midwife is just a message away.