Babies are born with fully formed fingernails. These tiny nails are a natural part of fetal development, serving specific functions from birth. They are often long enough to require immediate attention.
How Fingernails Develop Before Birth
The development of fingernails begins remarkably early during pregnancy. Around the 10th week of gestation, nail beds, the foundational layers beneath where nails grow, start to form. By the 16th week, tiny, translucent nails become visible on both the fingers and toes, gradually becoming more defined.
Throughout the second and third trimesters, these nails grow and strengthen, remaining softer and more flexible than adult nails. For full-term babies, fingernails often reach or extend beyond their fingertips by birth. This means some newborns may have surprisingly long nails at delivery.
The Purpose of Fingernails in Newborns
Newborn fingernails primarily protect delicate fingertips. They cover sensitive nail beds, shielding them from injury in the new external environment. Despite their softness, newborn nails can be quite sharp due to their thinness and can easily cause scratches.
Babies lack fine motor control in their early weeks, leading to involuntary arm and hand movements. These uncoordinated motions can result in self-scratching, particularly on the face, if their nails are not properly managed. This potential for injury highlights the need for parents to address nail care soon after birth.
Managing Newborn Fingernails
Given the rapid growth and sharpness of newborn fingernails, regular care is important to prevent accidental scratches. Fingernails need trimming or filing at least once a week; toenails less frequently, perhaps a couple of times a month. It is easiest to manage nails when a baby is asleep, calm, or after a bath when they are softer.
Two primary methods for nail care include filing with an emery board or trimming with specialized baby nail clippers or scissors. Consider these tips for managing newborn nails:
- Filing is often considered the safest method as it minimizes the risk of accidentally cutting the skin.
- If using clippers or scissors, use tools designed for babies, which often have rounded tips for safety.
- When trimming, gently press the fingertip pad down and away from the nail to avoid nicking the skin.
- Always cut fingernails along their natural curve and toenails straight across to help prevent ingrown nails.
- Avoid biting or peeling a baby’s nails, as this can transfer germs or cause injury.