Because babies spend so much time curled up inside the uterus, they can look a little scrunched up after they're born. Their arms and legs may not fully extend and their legs may even appear bowlegged.

Don't worry: Your baby will stretch out, little by little, and be fully unfurled within the next 6 months. In the meantime, as your baby adjusts to life outside the warm, safe confines of your womb, he or she may enjoy being swaddled.

Food is the most important thing in your newborn's life, with sleep running a close second. Most newborns will eat every two to three hours around the clock.

Sleeping schedules vary quite a bit from one infant to another. Your baby will likely sleep for a total of 16 to 17 hours in a 24-hour period – usually broken up into eight or so "naps." To reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), make sure your baby sleeps on his or her back unless your doctor advises otherwise.

By the end of the first month, your baby may develop something of an eating and sleeping pattern, but don't force it. Follow your baby's cues and watch for signs of hunger, such as increased alertness or activity, mouthing, or rooting around for your nipple. Crying is a late sign of hunger – in other words, ideally you should start feeding your baby before he or she starts crying.

Your baby is born with a number of reflexes. The Moro – or startle – reflex causes babies to automatically arch their back, extend their arms and legs, and sometimes cry out when they sense a loud noise or a sudden movement. Newborns can have this reaction even during sleep, but it goes away after a few months.

Other newborn reflexes include the Babinski reflex (your baby's big toe bends back and the other toes fan out when the sole of his foot is firmly stroked), the step reflex (your baby appears to take steps or dance when his feet touch a solid surface), and the tongue-thrust reflex (your baby pushes his or her tongue out when something is placed on it).