How to Safely Cut a Newborn's Nails and Prevent Scratching?

Question

My two-month-old daughter has sharp nails that she keeps scratching herself with. What are some safe methods for cutting her nails? We purchased a baby nail clipper, but it doesn't seem any different from a regular one, and our baby won't stay still during the process. Can you provide some guidance on how to cut her nails without causing harm or discomfort?

Answer 1

Your pediatrician can actually advise on this matter; ours told us that baby scissors are safer than nail clippers.

Also, we never cut her nails while she is awake - she moves too much and well, she has better things to do. I always cut them when she is sleeping.

Answer 2

For the first few months we used to just bite our kids nails. I know it sounds weird, but one midwife and two aunties suggested this and it seems to be fairly well recognised way to do it.

If you do want to use clippers, get the ones with a buffer - this stops you accidentally cutting into the baby's skin - which is quite easy to do if they are wriggling. Also use two people - one to hold their arm still, and the one wielding the clippers should hold the finger still - or do as @Swati said and wait for baby to fall asleep.