Babies Feet Turning Purple?

Question

My daughter is a week old and the nurses when she was in the hospital said something about newborn's feet sometimes having a purple hue was normal....But I can't remember the reason why. Does anyone know? I was wondering because her feet go purple sometimes when they aren't cold and her circulation is not cut off.

Answer 1

Yep, she is getting cold - put blanket or extra layer, not her feet, her body is getting cold.

Answer 2

its because the hands and feet are the last extremities that need oxygen.  So if she is cold, the blood vessels are going to send more oxygen to the brain and other parts that need it more to warm her up.

Answer 3

Congratulations for you and Welcome to the World for your daughter!

The medical term for the purple hue is "acrocynaosis". This is a normal condition that comes from a combination of factors. Cardiac output, extremity temperature, and a few other variables have an effect on the neonates circulation.

One possible reason is that the babies heart hasn't compeltely switched over from "fetal circulation" to "normal circulation". This often happens very quickly, but sometimes can take a week or two; and it is rarely something to worry about.

When you next go to your pediatrician, be sure to discuss your concerns about the cyanosis, too. I'm sure the doctor will help ease any concerns you have.

I've included a link below for some more information, and again, congratulations!