7 surprising yet normal things about newborns

Newborns are full of surprises, and if you’re gazing out at the misty atlantic while wondering if that sneeze or squeak is normal, you’re not alone.

Let’s unpack 7 newborn surprises that are all part of the package:

1. Funny-Shaped Heads (and a Bit of Conehead Drama)
After squeezing through the birth canal, your baby’s head might look a bit like a rugby ball. Don’t worry, it’s just from the pressure during birth. Those soft skull bones are designed to shift and mould, and in a few days, everything rounds out again beautifully.

2. Crossed Eyes or Wandering Gazes
Newborn eyes do their own thing for a while. It might seem like your little one is looking in two directions, but their eye muscles are still developing. By around 2–3 months, most babies gain better control. Until then, enjoy the googly-eyed magic.

3. Sneezing (A Lot!)
You might think your baby’s catching a cold, but newborns sneeze often to clear their tiny nasal passages. Swakop’s sea breeze can stir up dust or just tickle their nose a bit. No need to panic unless it’s accompanied by fever or trouble breathing.

4. Jerky Movements (Startle Reflex aka “Moro Reflex”)
That sudden arm-flailing when they hear a loud noise or even when lying down? It’s totally normal. This reflex is part of your baby’s healthy development and usually fades by 4–6 months.

5. Baby Acne and Peeling Skin
Yes, even newborns can get spotty! Tiny red bumps or flakey skin are super common in the first few weeks. Their skin is adjusting to life outside the womb, and if you’ve got that salty Swakop air around, it might look a bit drier. No creams needed unless advised by a health worker. Breast milk can work wonders on gentle flare-ups.

6. Breathing That Sounds…Well, Weird
Newborns often have irregular breathing patterns—pausing, speeding up, then settling. It can be unsettling to watch, but unless your baby seems to struggle or turns blue (in which case, seek help immediately), it’s just how tiny lungs learn the rhythm of life.

7. Swollen Bits (Yes, Genitals and Breasts Too!)
Thanks to leftover pregnancy hormones, your baby—girl or boy—might have puffed-up genitals or tiny breast buds. Some baby girls may even have a bit of bloody discharge. It’s hormonal and harmless, fading within weeks.

Your newborn’s oddities are usually just signs that they’re growing exactly as they should. Stay curious, trust your instincts, and never hesitate to check in with your local clinic or doctor if something feels off.

You’re doing beautifully, Mama.