What to Expect in Baby’s Second Month

Getting to Know Your Baby

Time has flown. Your little bundle of joy has been a part of your home for more than four weeks now. The new dad and mum are now more relaxed, confident, and really enjoy their new responsibilities (at least most of the time). Here are a few pointers on what to expect in baby’s second month.

Semblance of order

Baby is no longer breastfeeding as often.

Feeding every 2-3 hours usually keeps him satisfied.

Spitting of milk after a feed is normal. Make sure you burp your baby after every feed.

Your two-month-old baby most probably now sleeps 3-4 hours between nighttime feedings.

She has definite waking hours during the day, which means mom and dad too can work out a routine.

Baby knows you!

In baby’s second month, he focuses his eyes better, and can follow an object in an arc about six to eight inches from his face. He does not actually recognize your face, but definitely knows your touch, scent and voice. When you coo to his or talk in gentle soothing tones, she starts to make babbling sounds in response.

She enjoys smiling faces, smiles in return, and has a whole range of facial expressions.

I am a big(ger) boy now!

Baby has lost some of his early reflexes and has more control over his movements now. When placed on his stomach she can lift his head for brief periods.

If your baby sucks his fists and fingers, let him enjoy the activity. It is too early to picture your two-month-old walking to school with her thumb in his mouth.

Bath time can be playtime for your two-month-old baby. Trimming baby’s nails is best done after a bath (with tiny scissors/infant nail clippers).

To use or not to use

If you plan to introduce the bottle, baby’s second month is a perfect time. Breastfeeding may be best, but not for everyone. If you have milk supply issues or have to go back to work, bottle-feeding might be necessary. A combination of both can work well too.

Whether to use a dummy or pacifier is a tough choice to make. Make sure baby’s nursing patterns are well established before you do use one.

Hello Doctor

A regular well-baby check-up is scheduled in baby’s second month. Your doctor will allay any doubts you have and discuss safety issues like placing baby on his back to sleep, the need for an infant car seat and all the other questions you have.

Your baby will get oral polio drops and some shots this month, most probably a combination of the triple antigen, Influenza and Hepatitis B. These shots usually cause a little fever, which can make some babies cranky. Your doctor will prescribe a fever medication for your baby.

Baby’s second month sees him turning from a cute unresponsive newborn into a tiny interactive person. Watch your little bundle of joy grow and learn a host of things along the way.