a. Immediate Care

 

Right after birth, your baby will be given an Apgar test. This test looks at the baby's heart rate, breathing, muscle tone, reflexes, and colour. A health care provider will give the baby a complete examination.

The law requires that ointment be put in your baby's eyes to protect against infection. This will be done soon after birth. This ointment can sometimes make your baby's eyes look puffy. Your baby will also be given an injection of vitamin K to prevent blood clots.

In most cases, your baby can remain skin-to-skin on your chest while these procedures are performed. Discuss these options with your health care provider.