Umbilical Cord:
The umbilical cord has no sensation. Let it dry on its own and it should fall off within 2 weeks. We no longer recommend the use of cord spirit as this will delay the cord separation. Sometimes, bleeding may occur and there is also some discharge. If there is redness or urine coming from the cord, please seek medical attention.
Urine:
Your baby should have at least 5 - 6 wet diapers on discharge from the
hospital. If the baby is not taking enough fluids, the urine may turn pink in
colour. Increase the fluid intake by giving the baby more expressed breastmilk
or formula. Do not give plain water. If the urine output remains low, please
seek a medical opinion.
Vaccinations:
Your baby would have received vaccinations against tuberculosis (BCG) and Hepatitis B prior to discharge. If you are a carrier of Hepatitis B, they would have received the immunoglobulin as well. Vaccinations are important to protect your baby against these serious diseases. Frequently, pus may be seen discharging from the BCG site after 3-4 weeks. This is normal, just keep the area dry. Please refer to the handout from National Immunization Registry for the schedule of vaccines in your discharge bag.
Vaginal Care:
For baby girls, please remember to wipe their bottom from front to back. It is common for girls to have a thin milky discharge from the vagina, some may even have bleeding, their uteri are responding to the maternal hormones.
Well baby visits:
The well baby visits are scheduled as follow 2-3 days post discharge in case of jaundice, 2 weeks, 6 weeks to 2months, 4 month, 6 months, 12 months and 18 months. At each of the visits, your child growth and development will be assessed. Physical checkup will be done and vaccination can be given at the same time.
Once again, congratulations on your new bundle of joy. Our hospital website at http://www.nuh.com.sg/ktp-nucmi has other relevant details that may help you.