Why you shouldn’t kiss a newborn on the mouth
Whether you're a new parent or part of the family and friends excited to meet a (newborn) baby, the urge to connect and show affection is strong. Those little cheeks, soft curls, and tiny toes make newborns almost irresistible. However, while affection is essential, it is not always safe to be close to a newborn.
In this blog, we’ll discuss an important but often overlooked aspect of newborn care: why kissing a baby on the mouth should be avoided, especially in their first few months. This guideline isn’t meant to limit your affection, but rather to protect the health and wellbeing of the newborn. We’ll explore the risks involved, practical tips for safe interactions, and supportive ways family and friends can show love in protective ways.
Newborns and their special care
Newborns are incredible little beings, resilient yet vulnerable. In their early days, babies have developing immune systems that aren’t fully equipped to fight off germs and viruses like older children or adults can. The immunity a newborn has is partly obtained from the mother through antibodies passed on during pregnancy and, if breastfeeding, through breast milk. However, this protection is limited, and their immune systems take time to mature.
This period of vulnerability means that extra caution is needed when interacting with a newborn. It’s not uncommon for parents and family members to want to kiss the baby as an expression of love, but even minor exposure to certain viruses or bacteria through close contact can lead to severe infections or illness in infants. By understanding the unique needs of a newborn’s health, family and friends can take actions that show love while keeping the baby safe.
Risks of kissing a newborn on the mouth
Kissing a newborn on the mouth might seem like a harmless gesture, but it can carry unexpected health risks. Here’s a closer look at some of the infections that can be transmitted through mouth-to-mouth contact and why it’s so important to avoid them.
1. Herpes simplex virus (HSV-1)
One of the most concerning risks of kissing a newborn is the transmission of the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), commonly known as the virus that causes cold sores. While adults with the virus may have mild symptoms or no symptoms at all, this virus can be very dangerous for a newborn. When a baby contracts HSV-1, it can cause neonatal herpes, which has the potential to spread to the baby’s brain and other organs, leading to serious health complications.
HSV-1 is easily spread through close contact, and a kiss on the mouth can be enough to transfer it. For newborns, even a small exposure can be overwhelming to their undeveloped immune system, making this a risk that all caregivers should be aware of.
2. Respiratory Infections
Newborns are particularly susceptible to respiratory infections like RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) and influenza. RSV, for example, can lead to severe respiratory problems in young infants and is one of the leading causes of hospitalisation in newborns during their first year. Because respiratory infections can be spread through saliva and respiratory droplets, kissing a newborn on the mouth can increase the likelihood of transmission.
During colder months or flu season, it’s especially important for family and friends to limit direct contact with a newborn’s face or mouth, as these infections can lead to significant health challenges for babies.
3. Exposure to bacteria
Even if we don’t realise it, our mouths carry various bacteria that are harmless to adults but potentially harmful to newborns. Streptococcus and Staphylococcus bacteria, for instance, are common in the human mouth but can cause infections in infants with undeveloped immune systems. While these bacteria might not affect adults, they can lead to mild or severe infections in newborns, including skin conditions or more invasive issues.
4. Hand-foot-and-mouth disease and other viral infections
Hand-foot-and-mouth disease is a common viral illness that can be spread through saliva. Although it is usually mild in older children and adults, it can be more intense in newborns. Kissing on the mouth or face can inadvertently expose a baby to this virus, which can result in fever, skin rash, and mouth sores.
Practical tips for parents and loved ones
Keeping a newborn safe doesn’t mean avoiding affection altogether. Here are some simple and caring ways to protect the baby’s health while still allowing everyone to connect with and enjoy this special time.
1. Hand Hygiene
Encourage anyone who plans to hold or interact with the baby to wash their hands thoroughly first. This habit is an easy way to reduce the transmission of germs. A friendly bottle of hand sanitizer near the baby’s crib or play area can be a gentle reminder for family and friends.
2. Kiss on the head or feet, not the face or mouth
While the mouth and face are off-limits, there are many other places to kiss a baby safely. Kisses on the top of the head or the feet still show love but are much safer for the newborn. In this way, loved ones can stay close and affectionate without risking the baby’s health.
3. Limit close face-to-face contact for the first few months
For the first few months, keeping direct face-to-face contact limited can be beneficial. It’s a good idea to explain to family and friends that these guidelines are in place to help build the baby’s immune system over time and are not permanent. Most people will be understanding once they know this is part of postnatal care.
4. Encourage vaccinations for close family members
Encouraging close family members to stay up-to-date on vaccinations, especially for whooping cough and the flu, can help protect the newborn from serious illnesses. These simple steps are a helpful way for family and friends to actively support the baby’s health in a positive, proactive way.
5. Provide educational materials or share articles
New parents can feel empowered by sharing helpful resources with family members who may not know about these precautions. A friendly article (like this one!) or postnatal care materials can gently remind everyone of the reasons behind these guidelines without adding stress for the parents.
Building a safe and supportive Postnatal environment
Family and friends play a big role in supporting new parents, and respecting their wishes for the baby’s health is an important part of that role. Sometimes, well-meaning family members may not be aware of the risks of close contact or kissing on the mouth. By fostering open communication, parents can set boundaries that protect the newborn while helping everyone understand that these measures are only temporary.
Creating a safe environment means coming together as a family unit, whether that’s following hygiene practices, waiting to visit if unwell, or enjoying bonding time through other forms of affection, like gentle touches or soft words. Everyone has a part to play in ensuring the baby grows strong and healthy.
As we each play a part in a newborn’s early days, showing love through thoughtful actions and respectful interactions strengthens the family bond. For more helpful information on postnatal care and supporting new parents, visit Cradle Care’s postnatal resources. Together, we can make the early days safe, healthy, and full of love for every new arrival.
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