Bringing home your newborn is one of life’s most exciting moments—but also one of the most confusing. At Park Pediatrics, we proudly support families from Frederick to Gaithersburg, Germantown, Takoma Park, Greenbelt, and all throughout Montgomery and Prince George’s County during this special (and often overwhelming) time!
If you’re wondering what’s normal during your baby’s first month, here are some answers from our pediatricians.
Sleep: What’s Normal?
Newborns sleep a lot—up to 16–18 hours a day—but in short stretches of 2–4 hours. This is totally normal. Don’t expect long nighttime sleep yet!
At Park Pediatrics, we emphasize safe sleep to all families in Gaithersburg, Germantown, and Prince George’s County: always put your baby on their back in a crib with a firm mattress and no loose bedding or toys.
Poop Patterns 101
The first few days bring meconium—a thick, dark, tar-like poop. By day 4 or 5, it transitions to mustard yellow and seedy (if breastfeeding). Formula-fed babies may have fewer, thicker stools.
Parents in Takoma Park and Greenbelt often ask: “How often should my baby poop?” It varies! But white, red, or hard pellet-like stools are not normal—call us if you notice these.
When to Call Your Pediatrician at Park Pediatrics:
Call your doctor right away if your newborn:
• Has a fever over 100.4°F
• Is very sleepy or hard to wake
• Isn’t feeding well
• Has blue lips or skin
• Has fewer than 3 wet diapers in a day
Early care makes a difference. Our Park Pediatrics team is trusted by families in Germantown, Gaithersburg, Greenbelt, Takoma Park, Hyattsville and beyond for newborn visits and urgent concerns.
Watch our YouTube video on this topic for even more details:
https://youtu.be/Lt7BG1QInQM?si=gkgltCeoon48SukU
Looking for expert newborn care near you?
Park Pediatrics welcomes families from Gaithersburg, Germantown, Takoma Park, Greenbelt, and throughout Prince George’s County.
Call us at (301) 891-6141 or visit our website to schedule your first appointment.
Because your baby deserves a great beginning—and so do you.
Dr. Lavanya Sithanandam
Medical Director, Park Pediatrics
