Of course, the arrival of a baby is a beautiful moment! But after giving birth, a woman is tired. The delivery, whether it’s cesarean or vaginal birth, leaves the new mom wanting to rest. Not to mention that enjoying the baby and getting to know the little one who lived inside the womb for 9 months is wonderful! The magical moment is so intense that it can sweep up dads, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and friends. But know that there are rules for meeting the newest family member, this little being who has just arrived in the world. Etiquette rules are essential after childbirth and also for the safety of the new baby. Want to meet the little cutie? Then come with me and see which rules for visiting a newborn you should follow.
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If you want to meet the baby, whether out of closeness to the parents or sheer love, then do so after a certain amount of time has passed since the birth. That is, if you want to go to the maternity hospital and haven’t been invited, hold off; don’t invite yourself! For some moms, getting visits in the hospital isn’t cool. Especially if you come along with your husband. It’s a very tiring and challenging moment of adjustment. So, if you’re close enough, ask when you can visit.
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Never, under any circumstances, visit a newborn at the home of a mother who has just given birth if you are sick with anything contagious. For example: cold, virus, conjunctivitis, etc. Preserving the mother’s health and avoiding exposing the newborn—who still has no immunity—is essential.
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If you’re not very close or familiar with the mom and dad, don’t ask to hold the baby. Wait for her to offer. And even if you’ve already showered, you must always wash your hands before picking up the child. Avoid kissing the baby or handling their hands.
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A visit to the newborn should be as brief as possible. I know babies are wonderful, but in these cases, your visit needs to be short. So don’t go expecting to spend the whole day, have lunch, snacks, and dinner, okay? Oh, and always call and schedule a day or let them know when you plan to visit—in the age of WhatsApp, arranging visits is easier than ever.
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Bring a little something for the baby, even if you’ve already given something before or at the baby shower, it’s always a nice gesture and will make the mom happy. Another thoughtful thing—if the new baby has an older brother or siblings, bring something for them too. Even if it’s just a little treat. Older siblings can feel very jealous and left out.
What Else to Avoid When Visiting a Newborn?
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Avoid bringing an unfamiliar man along. For the mom, this can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Normally, right after giving birth, the mother is in pajamas or a nightgown even if at home. So if it’s a new boyfriend, or even a cousin or your brother, leave them at home.
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Breastfeeding is an intimate time for mom and baby, so avoid staying during feeding times—give them privacy.
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Children… this can be an issue. If you’re going to visit a newborn and a new mom, it’s best to call and ask if children can come. But if your child is particularly rambunctious and you have no one to leave them with, reschedule for another time when you have someone to look after them.
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Strong perfume is a big no! It can irritate the baby’s sensitive mucous membranes, so it’s best not to use it. And if you smoke, avoid doing so before the visit so you don’t carry a strong odor.
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Party favors, don’t grab a handful when leaving! Usually, the mom prepares them for the first visits, and there’s typically a limited amount—one per person. Unless the host offers you more or insists—sometimes this happens with sweets or something similar—even then, don’t overdo it.
In short, these are simple tips that can help when visiting a friend or even a close family member, so you can avoid awkward situations. Celebrating this moment with mom is wonderful! Go and show all your affection for this special time, your friendship, and how happy you are for this unique event—the arrival of the baby.
See also: Baby’s Bath—An Unforgettable Moment Photo: Jason Pratt
