Final answer:
In the first 48 hours of life, it is normal for infants to have 1-2 wet diapers in the first 24 hours and 2-3 by the end of the second day, due to the initial limited fluid intake of colostrum. Small weight loss in this period is also normal, with healthy babies starting to gain weight thereafter.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the first 48 hours of life, it is normal for a newborn to have a few wet diapers each day. This number is usually on the lower end immediately following birth as the infant's fluid intake is generally limited to the small volume of colostrum produced. Colostrum, albeit produced in small quantities (approximately 3 ounces in a 24-hour period), is packed with immunoglobulins and provides the necessary nutrients and hydration for the newborn during this adjustment period. Given this limited fluid intake, a newborn might have just 1-2 wet diapers in the first 24 hours. However, as the baby starts feeding more, whether from breast milk or formula, you might see an increase to 2-3 wet diapers by the end of the second day.
It is also worth noting that neonates typically lose a small amount of weight in the first week of life, partly due to the urination of fluid that initially fills their lungs. This weight loss can be about three to seven percent of the birth weight which is a normal physiological adjustment. As long as the baby starts to gain weight after this initial period, and the number of wet diapers gradually increases, these are considered signs of healthy development.