1. Temperature

Normal axillary (underarm) temperature in a newborn is 36.5 to 37.5 degrees Celsius. Anything at or above 38 degrees Celsius in a baby under three months is a reason to call your paediatrician — not because every fever is dangerous, but because the workup at this age is gentle and worth doing early.

2. Feeding

A well newborn feeds at least eight times a day in the first weeks, with at least six wet diapers. A baby who suddenly refuses two consecutive feeds or has fewer than six wet diapers in a day deserves a call. Spit-up after feeds is normal; projectile vomiting that recurs is not.

3. Skin tone

Mild jaundice in the first week is common. Yellowing of the eyes or skin that spreads downward from the face to the chest, abdomen, or legs deserves a same-day check. Bluish lips or fingertips that persist beyond a brief moment of cold are an emergency — call right away.

4. Alertness

A healthy newborn sleeps a lot but wakes for feeds and responds to gentle handling. A baby who is unusually limp, floppy, or hard to wake for feeds is a reason to call. Lethargy is one of the most important plain-language signs in the first weeks.

5. Breathing

Normal newborn breathing is 30 to 60 breaths per minute and can sound irregular. Persistent rapid breathing above 60 per minute, grunting with each breath, or visible chest retractions (the skin pulling in between the ribs) are reasons to call straight away.

A calm rule

If something feels off, please call. Paediatricians never mind a calm parent calling early. The five signs above cover most situations that benefit from a same-day check. One Baby keeps a simple log of each so you can describe what you have noticed in seconds when the call connects.