2-Month-Old: Week 1

Now that he's hit the 2-month mark, your baby is becoming an increasingly agreeable companion when he's happy. No longer do his built-in newborn reflexes govern his movements: He's learning to control his body and mind. He listens for new and different sounds. He looks around the room for interesting things to see. He focuses intently — though briefly — on whatever grabs his attention. Most of all, he really enjoys looking at his hands, mashing them together, and stuffing them in his mouth.

Coos are his way of expressing delight, as well as exercising his vocal cords. You can carry on a "conversation" with your baby now. When he gurgles or coos, say something brief or coo back at him. Then wait for him to "say" something back to you. This kind of conversational turn-taking may not sound like much to you now, but it's actually the beginning of learning how to talk!

How your baby's growing
Your baby can differentiate familiar voices from other sounds and is becoming a better listener. He also can show you that he's in tune with his environment. Notice how he looks to see where certain noises are coming from.

An ongoing conversation (although still one-sided!) can help your baby develop his sense of place. He may even watch your mouth as you talk, fascinated by how it all works.

• Learn more fascinating facts about your 2-month-old's development

Your life: Loving your partner
Very few parents feel amorous in the weeks following childbirth, for very practical reasons. It's important to remember, however, that being a new parent doesn't mean that you're no longer a sexual being. Even if you don't have time, stamina, or interest in having sexual intercourse, you and your partner can still find ways to love each other.

Love through talk. Keep the lines of communication open no matter how stressed you feel. Remember that you're both going through huge changes. Talking about them can help you feel closer. Frame complaints so that they don't sound accusatory: Instead of saying, "You shouldn't do ___," for example, try, "I feel like ___ when you do ___."
Love through laughter. When your life has turned upside down and you're so tired you could be mistaken for a zombie, it's as appropriate to laugh about it as to cry. Poke fun at your own foibles together.
Love through escape. Go out on a date to see a movie while leaving the baby in the care of a trusted relative or sitter. Even being away for a couple of hours can recharge you.
Love through touching. Sex isn't all about intercourse. Kissing, cuddling, caressing, and other kinds of sex play don't require lots of energy and can help you relax.
Love through time. Remember these topsy-turvy weeks are temporary.

3 questions about: The 2-month exam

What will the doctor be looking for?
She'll weigh and measure your baby to be sure she's growing at the proper rate. Your baby's vision and hearing will be checked, and the doctor will examine her for common health issues at this age, including diaper rash, baby acne, and cradle cap. This is also a great time to bring up questions you have about breastfeeding, returning to work, or any health and behavior concerns you have.

What vaccines will be given?
Your baby will probably be vaccinated against hepatitis B; polio; diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (the DTaP vaccine); and meningitis (the Hib vaccine). The pneumococcal vaccine is given to protect against severe bacterial infections, ear infections, and meningitis.

What questions will the doctor ask?
Most likely she'll ask you:
• How is your baby sleeping?
• What are her bowel movements like?
• Is your baby smiling?
• How often, how much, and when does she eat?
• How does your baby respond when you talk to her?