Bringing home a newborn is joyful — and, for first-time parents, a little overwhelming. What’s normal? How often should the baby eat? When do you call the doctor? This guide covers the essentials of newborn care for San Antonio families, from your baby’s first pediatric visit to feeding, sleep, and knowing when to reach out. Welcome to parenthood — Happy Days Pediatrics is here for every step.
Your Baby’s First Pediatric Visit
We welcome newborns as early as 3 to 5 days old. This first visit is important: we check your baby’s weight, feeding, jaundice, and overall health, and give you a calm place to ask everything on your mind. Learn more about our newborn care.
Feeding Your Newborn
Whether you breastfeed, formula-feed, or both, newborns typically eat every 2–3 hours — around 8–12 times a day. Watch for hunger cues like rooting and hand-to-mouth movements, and look for steady weight gain and regular wet and dirty diapers as signs feeding is going well. If feeding feels hard, tell us — support makes a real difference.
Safe Sleep
Newborns sleep 14–17 hours a day, in short stretches. To sleep safely, always place your baby on their back, on a firm flat surface, in their own crib or bassinet with no pillows, blankets, or soft toys. Room-sharing (without bed-sharing) is recommended in the early months.
Diapers and What’s Normal
Expect frequent diaper changes and stools that change color and texture in the first weeks — all normal. By day 5, most babies have several wet diapers a day. The umbilical cord stump will dry and fall off within a couple of weeks; keep it clean and dry.
When to Call the Doctor
- A rectal temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher — call right away
- Poor feeding, far fewer wet diapers, or signs of dehydration
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice) that worsens
- Difficulty breathing, persistent crying, or unusual sleepiness
Trust your instincts — if something feels off, call us.
Bilingual Support for San Antonio Families
Our Spanish-speaking team is here to make sure every parent feels understood and supported. You never have to navigate those first weeks alone.
Meet Your Baby’s Doctor
Ready to schedule that first visit? Request an appointment with Happy Days Pediatrics or call (210) 816-1330 — we can’t wait to meet your newest family member.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should my newborn first see a pediatrician?
We recommend a first visit at 3–5 days old, then again as your baby grows on the well-child schedule.
How do I know my newborn is eating enough?
Steady weight gain and regular wet and dirty diapers are the best signs. We’ll track weight at every visit.
Is it normal for newborns to lose weight at first?
Yes — a small amount of weight loss in the first days is normal, and most babies regain it within about two weeks.
This article is general information and not a substitute for medical advice.
