Becoming Parents
Being a new parent is one of the most monumental life changes any woman can undergo. You carry a baby for nine months and before you know it, your bundle of joy is here and requires all of your time and attention.
At Raleigh Group, we’ve helped hundreds of people navigate their journeys as new parents from prenatal visits to birth and beyond. We’ve learned a few things along the way and are here to make sure you’re prepared when the baby arrives.
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Pregnancy
When a woman is pregnant, her body goes through many changes. It’s much more than a growing belly and unusual cravings. That’s why it’s important to know what to expect when you’re expecting.
The best first step after you discover that you’re pregnant, even before you announce it to your family and friends, is to visit an OB/GYN. Your OB/GYN will confirm your pregnancy and be a vital resource during every trimester. Don’t be afraid to “shop” around. You and your OBGYN will be in close contact throughout the pregnancy, and it’s important that you work with someone you trust and feel comfortable discussing your body with.
Prenatal Visits in Memphis
While Raleigh Group Pediatrics doesn’t have an OB/GYN on staff, as you get closer to your delivery date, we recommend visiting our offices for a prenatal consultation. This is the first step in establishing a relationship between your pediatrician and your growing family. Raleigh Group prides itself on being a patient-centered medical home (PCMH), and we’re dedicated to giving you the resources and knowledge to help parents make the best decisions for their families. Our knowledgeable providers help expecting parents to develop the skills and confidence they need to hit the ground running when the baby arrives.
Your OB/GYN may suggest a pediatrician as your due date nears, especially if you’re experiencing a complicated or high-risk pregnancy. The more we know about your baby before they’re here, the better prepared your pediatrician can be to treat them.
Postpartum
Once the baby has arrived, we recommend starting your scheduled visits within the first week post-delivery. Your child will receive a basic physical exam, including a weigh-in, basic vitals, and any immunizations that weren’t given at birth. It’s expected that your baby will spend much of their first weeks of life sleeping or eating, which is perfectly normal.
LEARN MORE: Milestones
In addition to meeting your little one, your pediatrician will also make a point to check in on mom and make an assessment of her overall well-being. Postpartum depression affects 1 in 7 women. While “the baby blues” are common, noting emotional changes and discussing them with your pediatrician helps ensure that new moms are more able to be present and prepared to take care of their children. Raleigh Group is here for the whole family!
What To Watch For
Babies are more resilient than many parents think. However, there are still several early life illnesses or diseases that can affect your infant.
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- Jaundice - A yellowing discoloration of the skin. This issue should resolve itself within 2-3 weeks. However, if it persists, it’s time to see your pediatrician.
- Colic - While we don’t know the exact cause of colic, we know it can be a pain for both babies and their parents. While not a pleasant experience, colic is common until around 3 months of age. If you have questions or concerns, always give your pediatrician a call.
- Fever - Anyone who has held a sleeping baby knows that they are warm bundles of joy! However, if your infant spikes a persistent fever of 101º F then call your pediatrician immediately.
- Vomiting - Vomiting is common in newborns. That’s why we recommend burping them! However, babies become dehydrated quickly, which is why it’s important to monitor them closely. If vomiting persists or is discolored, call your pediatrician for advice.
Raleigh Group Symptom Checker
Raleigh-Group Is Your New Parent Resource
If you’re a new parent, Raleigh Group is here to help! Our expert pediatricians in Memphis are always available to answer questions or give guidance. Conveniently located in the Greater Memphis Area, Raleigh Group Pediatricians have helped hundreds of expectant parents prepare for their baby's arrival. Our helpful staff can assist you in setting up a well-child visit schedule to help you keep your baby on the road to wellness!