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E. Nose

No special care is necessary. Sneezing and snorting are very common in
newborns. This is their way of clearing their nose. If the nose becomes stuffy,
you can clear it by using a nasal aspirator (bulb syringe) and a cool mist
vaporizer or humidifier for the baby's room. For further information see section
v.- E "Colds". If crusts form on the outlets of the nostrils, these may be removed
with a Q-tip dampened with water. The Q-tip should not be inserted into the
nostrils further than you can see.

F. Ears

The outer ears may be cleaned with a damp Q-tip. It should NOT be inserted
into the ear canal (opening). Nothing smaller than your elbow should ever be
put into that opening!

G. Mouth

The mouth requires no special care. A fungal infection (oral thrush) may be

seen in the first few weeks of life. It looks like milk curds on the inside of the

cheeks, lips, and gums. These white spots are not removed easily by a Q-tip or
leave a bleeding spot upon removal. If you suspect that your baby has thrush
check the inside of his mouth before feeding. Contact us for the proper

medication.

H. Breasts

The breasts may be enlarged in newborns of either gender. This is due to the
mother's hormones and is a temporary condition. If the breasts are left alone,
the swelling will disappear more rapidly. If the breasts appear red, hot and
tender, please call us.

I. Navel (umbilicus)
The umbilical cord will usually dry and fall off within 2-4 weeks. Most doctors
now recommend just leaving it alone if it looks clean and dry. It is normal to see

a little dried blood around the cord before and after it falls off. If the area
becomes soiled from urine or stool or there is an accumulation of mucus don't

be afraid to clean it off with an alcohol wipe or a q-tip moistened with alcohol.
More frequent cleansing may delay when the cord falls off. When diapering, try
to keep the diaper below the navel as this will keep it drier. Once the umbilicus
is clean and dry for several days, you may tub bathe your baby. Until this time,
use sponge baths.

J. Genitals
Female: The folds of the female genitalia should be spread to remove
accumulated debris and waste products. Rinse this area with warm water.
When cleaning, always wipe from the front toward the back using a wet cotton
ball. Never wipe more than one time with the same cotton ball. A whitish

discharge may be seen for the first few days or weeks and some spotting of
blood may be seen as well. These are due to withdrawal from mother's
hormones. If bleeding persists more than four days, contact us.

Male: The circumcised penis should be washed with soap and water. A thin
layer of Vaseline should be placed over the top of the penis with each diaper

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