At Five Months

Many parents are surprised or even alarmed at the sight of their newborn. It is important to understand that the effects of birth are usually temporary and the baby’s looks improve rapidly.

Physiological jaundice

Hello, world!

Your baby will smile deliberately, especially for his parents. He can hold his head up momentarily, and focus on and follow moving objects.

By 2 months, he can lift his head when on his tummy and hold his head up when held at his shoulder.

Your baby is discovering their emotions from birth.

Your baby lifts his head up when lying on his tummy. His hands can grasp a small rattle, and he has started laughing.

Baby is growing and getting excited about, well, just about everything. Especially playtime and all the things hands can touch. Hands are so fascinating!

Check your basic progressive exercise programme with your caregiver.

Use your hospital stay to learn how to bath your baby. Babies usually have their first bath about an hour after birth.

The aim of immunisation is to prevent disease. It protects the community as well as individuals.

A new baby cries a great deal of the time. It is her only way of communicating. It is difficult at first to know why she cries, but your ability to interpret her cries will improve with time.

A general physical and gynaecological examination is advised 4–6 weeks after delivery to assess your recovery and the return of your body to its non-pregnant state.

Routines are difficult to establish with a new baby. You may feel as if your life revolves around the insatiable needs of your baby.

Clinics and primary health services are freely available in most countries in Southern Africa. Locate your closest clinic and the telephone number from your local authority or hospital.

Thrush is a fungal infection and can be found in your baby’s mouth, nappy area or under the chin. The fungus lives on the skin and usually causes no harm, but when conditions are favourable,&n

Your feelings about the birth

The normal temperature of a healthy infant varies between 36–37°C. A slight rise in temperature may be due to a cold or a mild digestive upset.

If you are ever concerned about your baby’s health, behaviour or development, consult your docto