As Newborn Care Week is observed annually from November 15 to November 21, doctors and fact-checkers use this time to debunk common myths about newborn care.

As part of this week, World Children’s Day is observed globally on November 20. The day serves as a platform to foster global unity, raise awareness of children's issues, and advocate for their welfare. On this day in 1959, the UN General Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child.

Baby myths and facts

Myth 1: Too many cuddles will make your baby more ‘clingy’

Fact

Research shows that the more you cuddle, look at and play with your baby, the more secure they’ll feel, and the more independent they’ll become.

This is because they will feel confident that you will be there for them if they need you, so they do not feel the need to hold on tightly to you.

Myth 2: Leave a baby to cry and they’ll soothe themselves

Fact

Babies need parents and carers to respond to their cries.

Although a baby that’s left to ‘cry it out’ may stop crying, some research suggests that they may still feel distressed when parents and carers do not respond to their cries.

Babies cry for different lengths of time and at different times, so try not to compare your baby to others.

When you're dealing with a lot of tears, remember it's hard on you too. Try to take time for a quiet moment to relax.

Myth 3: Babies sleep through the night

Fact

Babies have different sleep cycles than adults and waking up during the night is normal.

Some babies will sleep for a long time, others in short bursts.

Responding to their waking with warmth and love is a great way to nurture your bond and their development.

Myth 4: You should make sad feelings go away

Fact

It's OK for your baby to express sadness, discomfort and pain, as well as happiness and excitement.

Babies need you to help them learn about themselves and the world around them.

It's important to respond to their cries, as well as their smiles, with love and reassurance. This shows them that it's OK to express those emotions.

Myth: You Should Avoid Breastfeeding If You Have a Cold or Fever

Fact:

Breastfeeding is safe and recommended even if you have a cold or fever.

Benefits to the baby

Breastfed babies are more intelligent than those fed with formula milk

The breastfed babies have better learning and reading ability

Breastmilk contains all nutrients necessary for the baby

Breastmilk is easily digested and absorbed

Breastmilk is clean and free from bacteria, hence protects the child from several infections especially from diarrhoea and pneumonia

It is at the right temperature, needs no preparation and is ready to serve whenever the baby needs it

It saves the baby from respiratory problems, allergies, asthma and skin infections

Breastfeeding fulfills emotional needs of the baby and inculcates a loving relationship between the baby and the mother

Breastfeeding is beneficial to mothers

• It helps mothers regain their normal figure after delivery
• It protects mothers' health
• It protects mothers from anemia by reducing post-delivery bleeding
• It helps mothers in family planning as it has contraceptive effect and helps delay next pregnancy
• It protects against breast and ovarian cancer
• Early initiation of breastfeeding and frequent feeding saves mothers from the problem of breast engorgement
• It is convenient for the mother, as she does not have to prepare milk in advance as breastmilk is readily available and at the normal temperature
• Breastfeeding mothers are more relaxed and happy
• Mothers who exclusively breastfeed tend to bond better with their babies, particularly in terms of rearing and behavioral adjustments.

Also read: Delay umbilical cord clamping by two minutes to reduce premature baby deaths, says study - First Check