Bringing your baby home is a beautiful moment, but it also brings many new questions. Why are they crying? How often should I feed them? Is this rash normal? Don’t worry—you’re not alone, and you don’t have to know everything at once.

At AfyaMoja, we believe that every mother deserves calm, clear answers as she learns to care for her newborn. The first few weeks can feel overwhelming, but with the right support, you’ll grow more confident day by day.

Here’s what to expect—and how to care for your baby—in those precious early weeks.

1. Feeding: Follow Your Baby’s Lead

Breastfeed your baby on demand—this means anytime they show signs of hunger (like rooting, sucking hands, or fussiness). Most newborns feed every 2–3 hours. That’s about 8–12 times a day.

Don’t worry if your baby feeds more often or if feeds seem short at first. Their stomach is small, and your milk supply is still adjusting.

2. Umbilical Cord Care: Keep It Clean and Dry

Your baby’s umbilical stump will fall off naturally in 1–2 weeks. In the meantime, keep the area clean and dry and avoid covering it with tight clothing or diapers

This small wound is easy to care for—and with simple hygiene, it will heal on its own.

3. Bathing and Hygiene

To clean your baby, use lukewarm water, mild soap, and soft clothes. Focus on

• Skin folds (neck, underarms, thighs)
• Diaper area
• Face and hands

Always dry your baby well, especially in the folds, and dress them warmly. Avoid strong perfumes or powders—they can irritate newborn skin.

4. Sleep: Expect Short Naps Often

Newborns sleep around 16–18 hours a day, but in short stretches. It’s normal for them to wake up frequently to feed.

Lay your baby on their back to sleep, on a flat surface and without pillows, toys, or blankets. This reduces the risk of suffocation and supports safe sleep.

You may feel exhausted—rest when you can, and ask for help from family or friends.

5. Check on Their Breathing and Temperature

Babies can breathe irregularly in the first few weeks. But if your baby struggles to breathe, has chest retractions, or turns bluish around the lips or fingers, go to the nearest health facility immediately.

If your baby has a fever, is too sleepy to feed, or cries excessively, don’t wait—seek care.

Let AfyaMoja Guide You Through the First 6 Weeks

AfyaMoja shares simple, trusted tips by SMS and USSD to support newborn care. From feeding advice to warning signs, you’ll get what you need, when you need it.

We help you with:

• Caring for your newborn
• Feeding and sleeping routines
• Fever and infection warning signs

To access AfyaMoja’s newborn care messages, dial *393*103#, select option 2 to enroll in AfyaMoja Health Education, then select option 2 to get enrolled on AfyaMoja Post Natal Care.

With AfyaMoja, you don’t have to figure it all out alone. Let us be your gentle guide in these first precious weeks. Let us walk with you through every cry, cuddle, and milestone.