10 Weird (But Totally Normal) Things About Your Newborn

1. Cradle Cap (Dry, Scaly Scalp)

Your baby’s scalp might get dry or flaky—this is called cradle cap, and it’s totally harmless. You can gently massage a little baby oil on it and comb it out before bath time.

👉 Call your doctor if the rash spreads or looks worse.

2. Explosive Poop

Yes, diaper blowouts are a thing! Newborn poop is watery and can surprise you. It's messy but normal.

👉 Worry only if you see blood in the poop.

3. Swollen Breasts (Baby Boobage)

Some babies—boys and girls—may have slightly swollen breasts. This is due to leftover pregnancy hormones and usually goes away on its own.

👉 If there’s redness or fever, call your doctor.

4. Funny Sounds (Grunting, Snorting)

Newborns make all kinds of strange noises while breathing or sleeping. Their tiny noses get stuffy easily.

👉 If baby grunts with every breath or has a fever, check with your doctor.

5. Lots of Sneezing

Frequent sneezing is just baby’s way of clearing their tiny nose or reacting to light. Not always a sign of illness.

👉 Call your doctor if sneezing comes with wheezing or fever.

6. Jerky Movements

Sudden arm or leg jerks are part of baby’s startle reflex. It’s completely normal and goes away by 3–4 months.

👉 If there’s no movement at all, talk to your pediatrician.

7. Flat or Misshapen Head

Baby’s head may look uneven from birth or lying on one side too much. Use tummy time and switch sides during naps.

👉 If it doesn’t improve, your doctor may suggest a baby helmet.

8. Swollen Genitals

Both boys and girls may have puffiness in their private parts after birth—blame those pregnancy hormones again. It settles in a few days.

👉 For boys, if swelling doesn’t go down, it could be hydrocele—check with your doctor.

9. Blood in the Diaper

A tiny bit of blood could be from a baby girl’s mini period, a diaper rash, or after circumcision.

👉 If unsure, call your doctor. Peace of mind is worth it.

10. Crossed Eyes

Newborn eyes may look crossed from time to time—especially when they’re tired. Their eye muscles are still developing.

👉 If it continues past 6 months, get it checked.

Final Thoughts 💛

Newborns are full of surprises! Most of the strange things you notice are just part of healthy development. Trust your instincts—and don’t be afraid to call your doctor if something feels off.

With love,
Your Hopper Baby Family 🌈💕