Your Baby at One Month

Can you believe that your baby is now one month old? It feels like just yesterday that you were welcoming this tiny bundle into the world. This first month has likely been a whirlwind, filled with new experiences as you both adjust to your new roles—parent and baby. Let’s explore what might be happening at this one-month milestone, bearing in mind that every baby develops at their own pace.

Sleep

Sleep is a topic that’s probably been a big part of your daily conversations. At one month old, your baby is likely enjoying plenty of sleep, though it may not feel that way to you. Newborns typically sleep a lot—about 14 to 17 hours a day—but their sleep is often broken into short stretches.

By now, your baby might be starting to show a pattern of sleeping more during the night and being more awake during the day. If your little one is still having their days and nights mixed up, try keeping the curtains open during daytime naps and using a gentle background noise to help them differentiate between day and night. At night, keep the environment quiet and dark to support their natural sleep rhythms.

Communication

At this stage, your baby’s primary form of communication is crying. Whether they’re hungry, tired, or simply seeking comfort, crying is their way of expressing their needs. You might notice that they begin to respond to sounds around them. For instance, they may turn their head towards a sudden noise like the vacuum cleaner. This is a sign that they’re starting to engage with the world around them.

Movement

One month old, your baby is still developing their motor skills. They’ll be able to move their head from side to side, especially when feeding, though neck control is limited at this stage. Their movements may seem a bit jerky, which is perfectly normal as their coordination improves over the coming months. You might also observe the startle reflex, where their arms and legs splay out in response to sudden noises or movements.

Feeding

Feeding is a significant part of your baby’s life right now. They are likely eating every two to four hours, whether breast or bottle-fed. This frequent feeding is essential as it helps them grow and develop. Your baby should be gaining weight steadily and hopefully surpassing their birth weight. If you’re experiencing difficulties with breastfeeding, don’t hesitate to reach out to your health visitor for support—they are there to help you through these challenges.

You – One Month Postpartum

As you adjust to life with a new baby, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Your body has undergone significant changes over the past ten months, and postpartum recovery continues. It’s normal for your stomach to still appear larger as your uterus contracts, which can take up to six weeks.

This is not the time to focus on dieting or intense exercise. Your body needs time to recover, so be kind to yourself and prioritise rest. It took nine months to grow your baby, and it’s important to give yourself the grace and time to heal.

Remember, this is just the beginning of a wonderful journey with your baby. Cherish these early days and don’t hesitate to seek support when needed.

This article has been written using the latest guidance and information from trusted sources, primarily the NHS. This information should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your personal health and circumstances.