Baby's born face first, often need some special tender loving care for the first few days after their birth. Their faces will be very bruised and swollen, and they can be quite irritable, and unsettled, due to these discomforts. Some baby's settle better with lots of cuddles, others prefer to be handled as little as possible, because holding them can aggravate the discomfort. There are some hospitals that suggest 'minimal handling' in this circumstance, but you may wish to experiment with what your baby prefers. Your caregiver may suggest analgesia, such as paracetamol for the baby. You will have to assess how you feel about this.
You may find your baby needs extra 'patience' on your part with feeding, as their lips can be quite bruised and swollen. Some babies find the closeness required for breastfeeding initially uncomfortable and you may need to consider expressing for a day or so, if they are having difficulty latching. Ask to see a
lactation consultant, if one is available.
A few babies can continue to be irritable and unsettled in the weeks following the birth. Some parents have found that a few treatments by an cranial osteopath, or a chiropractor that specialise in babies, can help with the spinal alignment of the baby and contribute to the baby settling down. You may wish to try some
baby massage, or your homeopath may suggest a remedy.