Weird Things Newborns Do That Are Completely Healthy

Many first-time parents may be surprised with their new little human who sometimes seems like a quirky being from another galaxy. There are quite a few weird things newborns do that are completely healthy and normal though they seem surprising and unexpected when you experience them for the first time.

Our expert pediatricians at Abdow Friendship Pediatrics in Rockville, Maryland, partner with you through these formative first days and months with your newborn. We’re ready to help you with the questions that often accompany life with a new baby. 

Today, we gathered a collection of the wonderful and weird surprises your newborn may have in store for you in the coming months. 

Random noise generators

If you’re expecting crying, coos, and giggles from your baby, you probably won’t be disappointed. However, the cacophony doesn’t end there. Groans, grunts, snorts, moans … babies can be very verbal even before they learn to speak. 

In some cases, it’s instinctive experimentation with their body, while in other cases noises may originate with their developing air passages. As long as they’re not struggling to breathe, it’s all normal. 

Crazy dancers

Though your newborn is generally stuck on their back for a few months, they’re hardly motionless. Arms and legs can move with surprising gusto and little sign of coordination. It’s often an indication of development with their startle reflex, or, again, experimenting with this amazing body they’re discovering. 

There wasn’t a lot of room to move inside mom’s womb, and newborns may startle themselves out of sleep as they adjust to the world. It’s one reason to swaddle your baby during nap time to ensure quality rest. 

Sleep apnea already?

It’s disconcerting to watch your newborn sleep when they stop breathing for up to 10 seconds. It’s normal, as long as they’re not turning blue or struggling to breathe. Other times, when they’re crying or excited, respiration may top 60 breaths a minute. 

Are those boobs? 

Estrogen is a powerful gender hormone and your newborn had plenty of exposure to it from the time spent sharing mom’s body. This can mean your baby, girl or boy, might seem ready for bikini season. 

It’s even possible that their baby breasts may lactate. However, after birth, estrogen’s influence rapidly fades and so do the baby boobs, returning to normal child size within a few weeks. 

Right, face!

About 85% of newborns show a preference to turn their heads to the right when lying on their backs. This is similar to the percentage of right-handed people, so there might be a connection. However, this right-side preference with their head tends to even out in a few months. 

Crossed eyes

Though it often seems your newborn is being goofy on purpose for your amusement, the silly cross-eyed gaze isn’t deliberate. Sometimes, their developing features may create an illusion of crossed eyes, while in other cases it’s just another example of learning to take control of their body. Don’t worry, there will be plenty of funny faces later on. 

At Abdow Friendship Pediatrics, we’re here for all your newborn care needs. Answering your questions about your baby, their growth, and their development is an expected part of every appointment. You’re the most important person in your newborn’s life, and we want you to be fully equipped to provide for them. 

Call or click to book your appointment with us today.