Routine steps and procedures after the birth of a child

Immediately after birth and during the newborn's stay in the maternity hospital, the usual steps and procedures are performed. Over the decades, they have changed, thanks to knowledge about newborn physiology and needs.

Skin wiping  

Skin wiping stimulates the baby to start breathing on his/her own and prevents heat loss. The newborn's wet skin, especially the scalp, quickly gives off heat and it is the midwife's task to wipe and warm the baby as soon as possible.

By cutting the umbilical cord, the newborn finally separates from the mother's body and begins his/her independent journey through life. It is recommended to delay clamping the umbilical cord (putting a clamp interrupts blood flow through the umbilical cord) by at least 60 seconds after birth. This helps the baby's blood flow and breathing to adapt, and the baby also receives additional blood from the umbilical cord, which has a beneficial effect on the prevention of anemia in later months. After that, the umbilical cord is cut with scissors and tied with a string, or a special clip is placed on it. If dad attends the birth, he is usually offered to cut the umbilical cord. Cutting and attending to the umbilical cord does not hurt the baby!

Skin-to-skin contact

This is the next step if the child is vital and the mother is feeling well.

Putting on an identification wristband

This is the next step according to the maternity procedures; identification wristbands are fastened on the wrists of the mother and the newborn.

Measuring a newborn (length, weight and head circumference) 

This step is best postponed after skin-to-skin contact and the first breastfeed.

  • Bathing a newborn is not recommended, as it encourages cooling and removes the protective layer from the skin.

  • It is not recommended to separate the newborn from the mother, unless the mother or the child have an urgent health condition.

Preventive procedures, vaccines and screenings

Immediately after birth, the baby receives vitamin K (a small muscular injection given in the front part of the newborn's thigh) in order to prevent hemorrhagic disease of the newborn. On the first day, the baby receives the first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine; it is administered in the same manner as vitamin K, only in the other leg. Before discharge, he/she receives the tuberculosis vaccine (BCG vaccine); it is applied to the skin on the outside of the left upper arm. A blood sample is taken from all babies for metabolic screening. In accordance with national recommendations, all newborn children undergo hearing screening.