The successful transition of a fetus, immersed in amniotic fluid and totally dependent on the placenta for nutrition and oxygen, to a squalling, air-breathing baby is a source of wonder. Healthy newborns (age birth to 1 month) and infants (age 1 month to 1 year) need good care to ensure their normal development and continued health.

Last full review/revision November 2006 by Ruth A. Lawrence, MD