Midwife Rashida Assan of the Tema Urban Hospital has urged new and expectant mothers to prioritise medically approved newborn care practices and avoid traditional practices that could put babies at risk.
Speaking on Nyansapɔ Fie on Plan B FM with host Akosua Gyamfua, Midwife Assan shared essential health advice on newborn bathing, care of the soft spot on a baby’s head, and umbilical cord management.
She stressed that the first few weeks of a baby’s life are critical, requiring proper care to support healthy growth and protect newborns from infections and other avoidable complications.
On bathing, Midwife Assan explained that newborns should not be bathed immediately after birth. She said, in line with Ghana Health Service guidance, health workers generally wait about six to eight hours to allow the baby to adjust to the surrounding environment.
She further advised mothers to avoid using soap around the umbilical cord before it falls off. Instead, the baby should be gently cleaned with warm water, ensuring that the water is not too hot.
Midwife Assan also cautioned mothers against the traditional practice of massaging a newborn’s head or soft spot with hot water.
She explained that the soft spot, medically known as the anterior fontanelle, is a natural opening between the bones of a baby’s skull that allows for brain growth. She strongly warned against pressing, rubbing or applying hot water to the area, stressing that the fontanelle will close naturally as the baby develops.
On umbilical cord care, she urged parents to follow the advice of qualified health professionals and use only recommended products.
She noted that the World Health Organization (WHO) and Ghana Health Service recommend the use of Chlorhexidine 7.1% gel for newborn cord care in settings where its use is indicated.
According to her, the umbilical cord usually separates within five to 15 days after birth. Parents should seek medical attention if the cord remains attached beyond this period or if they observe unusual signs such as swelling, redness, discharge or bleeding.
She also advised parents to consult health professionals regarding the appropriate timing of circumcision for baby boys, particularly while the umbilical cord is still attached.
Midwife Assan concluded by urging mothers and caregivers to seek professional medical advice whenever they notice anything unusual about a newborn’s health rather than relying on home remedies or potentially harmful traditional practices.
She encouraged parents to visit the nearest health facility promptly and follow the specific instructions provided by their midwife or doctor to ensure their babies receive the safest possible start to life.
By: Sandra Kwapong
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