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(Last updated: 7 Nov)

Pregnancy to Parenthood (Oct 2019)

Contributed by: Kids Clinic

On 12 October 2019, Dr Wendy Sinnathamby was an invited speaker at the “Pregnancy to Parenthood” seminar organized for parents-to-be. She touched on how to manage common newborn issues as well as when parents should see a paediatrician for these issues. Here are the key points from Dr Wendy’s talk for couples who missed her session:
Dr Wendy at a Pregnancy Seminar where she shared about Common Newborn Issues
One of the conditions Dr Wendy shared about was jaundice. It is a condition newborn babies can develop 3-4 days after they are born. This can be prevented if your baby is well hydrated. However, in some cases, babies can still develop jaundice.

Hence, is important to see your paediatrician if you notice your baby’s skin and eyes are becoming more obviously yellow, he/she has a fever or is not feeding properly.

You can read up on managing other common newborn issues like oral thrush and eye discharge here.

When to See a Paediatrician

Common newborn issues like spit-ups, vomiting and nasal congestions are generally not a huge cause for concern as they resolve over time. However, there are some red flags, you simply cannot ignore.

Spit-ups and vomiting are generally common for babies after feeds as their digestive system is still developing. However, it is a cause for concern if you observe the following symptoms:
  • Persistent large vomits
  • Not gaining weight
  • Sudden onset
  • Lethargy
  • Fever
  • Decreased urine output
  • Poor weight gain

Nasal congestions in newborns are normal especially after feeding. However, if it continues to persist and you observe the symptoms stated below, then you should visit a paediatrician.

  • Breathless
  • Poor feeding
  • Vomiting
  • Fever
When You Need to Visit a Paediatrician for Common Newborn Issues

Dr Wendy then finished her talk by sharing some general signs and symptoms parents should keep a lookout for. If you observe these signs, then you should bring your baby in for a check-up with your paediatrician.

  • Fever higher than 37.5 degrees Celcius
  • Crying for more than 2 hours at a time and is inconsolable
  • Not feeding well
  • Diarrhea or persistent vomiting
  • Less awake or less alert than usual
Make an Appointment with Dr Wendy
Dr Wendy Sinnathamby is an accredited paediatrician at Mount Alvernia Hospital, Mount Elizabeth Hospital (Novena),  Mount Elizabeth Hospital (Orchard) and Thomson Medical Centre. Therefore, expecting parents may request for her to be their attending paediatrician for their newborn’s assessment. Her place of practice is at Kids Clinic @ Mt Alvernia, with weekday evening appointments available. 
About Author
This article is written by Dr Wendy Sinnathamby, a General Paediatrician with more than 20 years of experience. Dr Wendy completed her Paediatric specialist training in the UK and is experienced in newborn screening, growth and development screening, emergency paediatrics, vaccination, travel advice and adolescent medicine.

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