When to Take a Newborn to Church

Church Practices

• In a church congregation full of young and growing families, babies -- and their cries -- are likely a common and accepted part of the weekly worship routine. If, on the other hand, you attend church with an older, more traditional congregation, you may find less tolerance for a fussy baby during the service. Consider your own congregation and the nature of the worship service when making your decision to take your baby to church. Be prepared to sit in the cry room to observe the service or take the baby out of the sanctuary if you sense her crying is distracting other worshipers. Some churches may offer nursery care during service.

Health Concerns

• From a medical standpoint, there is no hard and fast rule about when it is okay to take your newborn out in public. The generally accepted guideline has been to limit your newborn's interaction with large groups of people at places such as the mall, restaurants and church during the first 6 to 8 weeks of his life. This is designed to protect him from exposure to germs that his young immune system may not yet be able to handle. But if your church is temperature-controlled and well-ventilated, and you limit who handles the baby, there is no medical reason you cannot take an otherwise healthy newborn to church, even in his first few weeks of life.

Weather Report

• A newborn is more susceptible than an adult to extremes or sharp changes in temperature, so factor in local weather conditions when you're considering taking him to church with you. If it's sizzling hot, pouring rain or freezing cold, you may want to wait a week or two before taking your newborn out -- to church or anywhere else for that matter. If you must take him out in bad weather, be sure you have the appropriate clothing, covering and weather-appropriate protective gear to keep him dry and comfortable.

How Do You Feel?

• A first-time mom might feel extra cautious about taking her little one out in public. Talk to your doctor to get her advice and ask other moms what they have done. If you're comfortable taking him to church when he's just a week or two old, it's fine to do so. If you'd prefer to wait until he's a little older, when you're more confident about juggling the car seat, diaper bag, and baby, that's also okay. Your own physical condition might affect your decision, as well. Moms who have had difficult deliveries, or even a C-section, are often advised not to lift or carry anything, even the baby, except for very brief periods of time until they've recovered.