Why send it early
Clear wishes before the birth avoid hurt feelings later. Most people are happy to help when they know what you need.
Keeping the baby well
Wash hands first
Everyone should wash their hands before holding a newborn (NHS 111 Wales).
No kisses with a cold sore
Anyone with a cold sore, or who recently had one, should not kiss the baby. The cold sore virus can be serious for a newborn (NHS 111 Wales).
Stay home if unwell
Ask people with a cough, cold or tummy bug to visit later, when they are well.
The big brother or sister first
Ask visitors to spend some time with your older child too (AAP). Saying hello to them first helps them not feel left out. More ideas: big sibling countdown.
Questions people ask
What rules can I ask visitors to follow?
For example: message before coming, keep visits short, wash hands, stay home if unwell, and greet the older child first. It is your home and your baby: you decide.
Can visitors kiss the baby?
Anyone with a cold sore, or who recently had one, should not kiss the baby. Everyone should wash their hands before holding the baby (NHS 111 Wales).
Should visitors be vaccinated?
Babies under 1 are most at risk from whooping cough, and the CDC recommends the vaccine for all adults (CDC). Ask your midwife or doctor what to ask of visitors.
Is it rude to ask people to wash their hands?
No. It is a normal, simple way to protect a newborn, and most people are happy to do it.
How long should visits be?
That is up to you. Many parents ask for short visits in the first weeks, so they can rest and feed the baby.
When can people visit in hospital?
Each hospital has its own visiting rules. Check with your maternity unit.
Read the full guide: Newborn visitor rules
Sources
- NHS 111 Wales: Neonatal herpes · checked October 26, 2026
- CDC: Whooping cough vaccines · checked October 26, 2026
- HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics): Preparing your older child for a new baby · checked October 26, 2026