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Avoid Kissing Newborns: Essential Guidelines for New Parents
by Lisa Turner
Updated: June 3, 2021
Originally Published: September 21, 2017
I’m not exactly a germaphobe. I abide by the five-second rule, don’t feel the need to bathe my kids daily, and I could certainly clean my kitchen counters more often. I genuinely believe that exposure to germs (and a bit of dirt) is beneficial for our children, and science supports this notion. However, there’s one crucial exception to this guideline: newborns.
Let’s be honest: it may not earn me any popularity points, but I must stress this: keep your lips, unclean hands, and germs away from newborns. I understand the allure. Babies are incredibly charming with their chubby cheeks, soft hair, and that unmistakable fresh scent. This cuteness is nature’s clever strategy to ensure parents endure sleepless nights, incessant cries, and messy diaper situations.
The truth is, babies are utterly captivating and can easily make us lose our better judgment. A few moments with a baby can turn anyone into a mushy puddle. We might find ourselves speaking in a high-pitched, sing-song voice, referring to ourselves in the third person, or posting pictures of their adorable little bums with hashtags like #CutiePie. Yet, in our excitement, we often overlook the harmful bacteria, viruses, and infections we may be exposing them to.
While some exposure to dirt and germs is healthy for older kids, it doesn’t apply to newborns. Their immune systems are still developing, and they haven’t received all their vaccinations yet, making them susceptible to various infections and illnesses. It’s a matter of life and death. Tragically, there have been cases where newborns contracted meningitis from a harmless kiss from someone carrying a cold sore, as well as other instances where babies caught herpes from individuals who were unaware of their contagious status.
You might be rolling your eyes, thinking I’m just another overly cautious parent dictating how we should behave. However, this isn’t just about being paranoid; it’s about good hygiene, basic common sense, and showing respect. So, please: don’t kiss the baby. Avoid letting them suck on your fingers, and certainly don’t cough or sneeze near them. If you’re feeling under the weather, do everyone a favor and stay away. No one wants to be sneezed on, especially not a new mom and her precious baby.
Of course, this isn’t a lifelong ban on affection. Once a baby has had their vaccinations and their immune system has had a chance to strengthen, the rules can relax a bit. Before long, they’ll be crawling and exploring, and yes, they might even end up tasting the kitchen floor.
As toddlers, they might draw on the walls with markers or splash in the toilet. Eventually, we’ll find them delightfully sucking on a half-eaten piece of candy they discovered under the couch, and we might laugh it off, despite feeling a little queasy. However, when it comes to newborns, it’s essential to exercise caution.
When visiting a new family, bring food or a cute, albeit impractical, outfit for the baby. Offer to hold the little one (after washing your hands, of course) so that the parents can grab a moment to themselves. But please, keep your germy lips and hands away from that baby.
For more insights into parenting, check out resources like Healthline, which provides excellent information on pregnancy and newborn care. And if you’re looking for ways to expand your family, consider reading about home insemination kits at Make a Mom.
In summary, while it’s natural to want to shower a newborn with affection, it’s crucial to prioritize their health and well-being. Keeping your distance when it comes to germs will help ensure that these little ones thrive during their most vulnerable stage.