Five newborn things that look worrying but are usually normal

Short answerPeeling skin, lots of sneezing, eyes that sometimes cross or wander, frequent hiccups and, in baby girls, a little discharge or blood in the nappy are all common in the first weeks and usually normal. If you are ever unsure, ask your midwife or health visitor.

Why is my newborn's skin peeling?

Peeling skin, especially around the hands, feet and ankles, is really common in the first few weeks as your baby's skin adjusts to life outside the womb.

Why does my newborn sneeze so much?

Newborns are surprisingly sneezy. It doesn't necessarily mean they are unwell or have a cold. Sneezing is a normal reflex that helps clear their tiny nasal passages.

Is it normal for my newborn's eyes to cross?

Newborns don't have good control of their eye movements yet and they are still learning to focus, so you might notice their eyes occasionally look crossed or wandering. In the early weeks that is usually fine.

Why does my newborn get so many hiccups?

Hiccups are very common, particularly after feeds, and can seem almost constant. Your baby's diaphragm and nervous system are still maturing. Hiccups are usually normal and harmless.

Is it normal for a newborn girl to have blood in her nappy?

In baby girls, a little vaginal discharge or a very small amount of blood in the nappy can be normal. It is sometimes called a mini period. It happens because of the drop in your hormones after birth and is usually nothing to worry about.

Normal doesn't mean you can't ask

If you are worried about anything and you aren't sure whether it's normal, ask your midwife or health visitor.

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