Newborn in 2016: Fourth trimester · 463

Most clinicians use 28 days; some extend to six weeks when colic and feeding patterns stabilise. Roughly 14–17 hours in 24, in short bouts — wake cycles are normal and not a sign of poor sleep training need. Yes, especially evenings in the first weeks; it supports milk supply and growth spurts rather than indicating insufficient milk alone.

Fever in infants under three months, poor feeding, fewer wet nappies, yellowing skin, or breathing difficulty warrant urgent review. Strong evidence links immediate and ongoing skin-to-skin with temperature stability, breastfeeding success, and parent-infant synchrony. Limit exposure in early weeks; hand hygiene and vaccination status of visitors reduce infection risk for immature immune systems.

No — responsive comfort builds secure attachment; infants cannot manipulate or form habits of being held at this age. Gentle day-night cues help from a few weeks, but strict schedules are inappropriate until feeding and weight gain are established. Newborn care moved from home midwifery to hospital nurseries in the twentieth century, then back toward rooming-in and family-centred models.