Can a 7 Week Old Go in a Pool?

Hi R.,
I wouldn't worry about the clorine as much as I would the sun exposure at 7 weeks. I would make sure the pool area where you will be is completely shaded or dress your baby in a full coverage suit that privides SPF protection from the sun. I personally wouldn't use sunscreen at 7 weeks especially the normal kind that works by absorption into the skin. It might be safe to use one of the topical sunscreens (I know California Baby makes one that is a rub-on stick with zinc oxide that I use on my kids faces now) at 7 weeks but I have never researched it.
Good Luck, D.

As a mother of a waterbaby, we had a pool in our backyard when my middle daughter was born May 24th. She went swimming that summer and loved the water. I can't say do it or don't do it but we did it when she was still tiny. She would try to wiggle away from me and swim by herself. I'd have to take her out so she wouldn't drown herself since she wanted to swim by herself and our pool was 3' deep. I think since they just came out of water, it's a natural feeling to be in the water. Her favorite character was the little mermaid and has always loved swimming. She played softball just for the pool parties at the end of the season. If you decide to try it, make sure the chlorine isn't too strong, don't stay in for long periods, stay out of too much sun, and hang on tight. I'm sure checking with your doctor is a great idea. Most babies love the water, some more than others, and some not so much. My other two had tubes and had to be kept out of the water unless they had ear plugs so that wasn't as much fun for them. Too much swimming can cause ear infections so keep his head up as much as possible. If it's your pool or his own baby pool it's easier to control the water chemicals and temp. Have fun and enjoy the summer with your new little one.
K.

I'm not sure about the chemicals but a baby that young cannot wear sunscreen so you might want to think twice about it unless you can be in the pool and in the shade, or go in the early morning or in the evening when the sun is mostly set. I think they have to be six months old before they can safely wear sunscreen, but you might want to confirm with your pediatrician.

hmmm you may need to ask a doctor about this one. I know if you hold it the whole time its fine and don't let the water get near its face, but im not sure about the chemical with the skin. Hope someone is more help than I am. But just remember it only takes two inches of water for someone to drown so if you do decide to give your little one a dip keep its mouth and nose away from the water

I say call and verify it is okay with your childs doctor because even tho baby "swims" in your belly...chlorine is different. My concern would be water in the ears because babies are not as developed as children are. Ask just to be safe.

I would not take an infant to a pool that young!

You also want to be careful about the germs that will be floating around in the water. Germs can thrive in heated pools and pools with improper chemical balance. A newborn will be highly succeptible.

Surely I wouldn't. Such young babies are very fragile. They need their comfort and feel cozy at all times. Even if the water feels nice to you, it will still be a shock to him when he's in contact with the change of temperature. Plus, as you said, the chemicals are not to be in contact with such a young skin.
Finally, there are some swimming lessons for babies in pools, but they never allow babies younger than 6 months, and at the place I took my baby to, the pool was especially heated for them.
I know that it's not easy when you have two other kiddos on the go, but please don't do that, poor little thing!!