POSTNATAL

New Born information

In some cases, the new born have to be seen for a follow up scan for conditions detected in the womb such as cysts or abnormal growth.  Other parameters to look out for are:

• Jaundice is a yellow discoloration of the skin and eyes caused by a build-up of bilirubin in the blood especially is cases of immature liver. It is common in newborns and usually goes away without treatment and does not cause any harm. Usually, phototherapy is only recommended.  Though, in severe cases jaundice can cause brain damage and therefore it is important to monitor.

• Babies Insulin - Sometimes babies’ of diabetic mothers tend to have fluctuations in their insulin level due to the condition of their mother and decreases blood glucose level. If not monitored with caution can lead to serious complications such as loss of consciousness, coma etc.

• Guthrie Test. The Guthrie test is a series of medical tests performed on newborns to detect several metabolic diseases. The test is performed on blood samples taken from the heel of the baby, at or before 4 days of age.
  The test typically screens for the following diseases:

• Phenylketonuria

• Hypothyroidism

• Cystic Fibrosis

• Galactosaemia