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<h2>Understanding Labour</h2><p>For many expectant mothers, recognizing the signs of labour can be challenging. It's important to know what to look for as your due date approaches. Understanding these signs can help you prepare for the arrival of your baby.</p><figure id="figure-kyp6gujs6hm29nl6lv"><img id="kyp6gujs6hm29nl6lv" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1497005367839-6e852de72767?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyfHxsYWJvdXItc2lnbnN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzI4OTQ4OTg3fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="labour-signs" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1497005367839-6e852de72767?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwyfHxsYWJvdXItc2lnbnN8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzI4OTQ4OTg3fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h2>Stages of Labour</h2><h3>First Stage of Labour</h3><p>Regular, usually painful contractions cause your cervix to thin and open up (dilate) to 10cm. In the early stages you may experience:</p><ul><li>vaginal discharge such as thick mucus stained with blood – a ‘show’ (if uncertain please contact your maternity care provider)</li><li>lower abdominal ‘period-like’ pain, occurrences of which may be 10 to 30 minutes apart.</li><li>your waters breaking (ruptured membranes).</li><li>diarrhoea.</li><li>dull backache.</li></ul><p>Try To :</p><ul><li>have regular drinks, meals &amp; snacks.</li><li>try to rest if it’s during the night</li><li>call the hospital to talk to the midwife.</li><li>stay at home for as long as you can.</li><li>a bath/shower can be helpful.</li><li>go to the toilet regularly, every 2-3 hours.</li></ul><p>In the later stages you may experience more intense contractions, they become stronger and closer together and may be three to five minutes apart (this is the time to come into hospital).</p><p>Try To:</p><ul><li>concentrate on one contraction at a time.</li><li>if you are hot, a cold face washer on the neck and face can be soothing.</li><li>vary positions between sitting, standing and walking.</li><li>continue to drink plenty of fluids and eat light snacks if you feel like it.</li><li>rest between contractions.</li><li>a bath/shower can be helpful.</li></ul><h3>Second Stage of Labour</h3><p>This stage begins when your cervix has fully opened (dilated) and continues until the baby is born. You may experience:</p><ul><li>longer and stronger contractions with a one- to two-minute break.<br></li><li>shaky cramps, nausea and vomiting<br></li><li>increased anal pressure</li><li>stretching and burning feelings.</li><li>the desire or urge to push</li></ul><p>Also, if the urge to push can be overwhelming. Try to relax and to control your breathing pattern. If possible, get off the bed or try different positions on the bed.</p><p>Pushing may last up to two hours, but the length of time is different woman to woman. The pushing stage is usually quicker if you have had a baby before. You may experience:</p><ul><li>pressure, the feeling of wanting to go to the toilet</li><li>the baby’s head moving down.</li><li>stretching and burning in your vagina</li><li>try to breathe deeply</li><li>follow your body’s urge to push</li><li>find a position that is comfortable</li><li>listen to your midwife or doctor, who will guide you.<br><br></li></ul><figure id="figure-y7rodxi9pom29nlaqx" class=""><img id="y7rodxi9pom29nlaqx" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1528218635780-5952720c9729?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMnx8Y29udHJhY3Rpb25zLXByZWduYW5jeXxlbnwwfHx8fDE3Mjg5NDg5OTN8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="contractions-pregnancy" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1528218635780-5952720c9729?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxMnx8Y29udHJhY3Rpb25zLXByZWduYW5jeXxlbnwwfHx8fDE3Mjg5NDg5OTN8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Third Stage of Labour</h3><p>This stage begins with the birth of your baby and continues until the placenta and membranes are deliverd. You may experince more contractions to birth the placenta.&nbsp;</p><p>The midwife will usually pull on the cord to deliver the placenta, but may ask you to help by gently pushing. Most hospitals will allow you to keep your placenta providing that further testing is not required. Some people will turn their placenta into capsules, plant it in a pot or bury it in their gardens.&nbsp;</p><h3>Conclusion</h3><p>Recognizing the signs of labour can help you feel more prepared for the arrival of your baby. Stay informed and communicate with your healthcare provider. This will ensure you receive the support you need during this exciting time.</p>

Signs You Might Be in Labour

green and brown mountain under blue sky during daytime

<h2>Confirming Your Pregnancy</h2><p>When you first suspect you might be pregnant, the initial step is to confirm it. You can do this with a home pregnancy test. These tests are available at most pharmacies and are easy to use. They detect the presence of the hormone hCG in your urine.</p><figure id="figure-hs3ejllrdgm1zmvhcu"><img id="hs3ejllrdgm1zmvhcu" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1548754144-65873dce8beb?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw4fHxwcmVnbmFuY3klMjB0ZXN0fGVufDB8fHx8MTcyODM0MzEyOHww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="pregnancy test" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1548754144-65873dce8beb?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw4fHxwcmVnbmFuY3klMjB0ZXN0fGVufDB8fHx8MTcyODM0MzEyOHww&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><h3>Contacting your local GP&nbsp;</h3><p>Whether you are a private or a public patient you may wish to have your first pregnancy appointment with your local GP.</p><p>There are many reasons for this, you may feel more comfortable seeing your own doctor to begin with, you may want your doctor to advise you about your maternity care options, it might be more affordable to see your GP in the first instance or it may be a number of weeks before you can get an appointment with your preferred provider or carer.</p><p>Your local doctor (GP) can do early routine visits and organise your first tests and investigations.</p><p>A GP can:</p><ul><li>do a pregnancy urine or blood test</li><li>talk with you about any concerns you might have about your pregnancy or general health</li><li>discuss and organise early tests and ultrasounds</li><li>talk with you about diet and exercise</li><li>help you to give up smoking and discuss alcohol and drug issues if necessary</li><li>make sure any medications you are taking are safe in pregnancy, including any natural or alternative medicines</li><li>talk with you about your pregnancy care options.</li></ul><p>Your GP can order blood tests to check the following:</p><ul><li>blood group and iron levels</li><li>immunity to rubella (German measles)</li><li>whether you have been exposed to hepatitis (a disease of the liver)</li><li>sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis and HIV (this test is offered with pre and post-test counselling)</li><li>Thalassaemia (an inherited disorder that affects the production of haemoglobin).</li><li>your risk for having a baby with Down syndrome and other genetic disorders</li><li>vitamin D (deﬁciency that can occur from lack of exposure to sunlight)</li><li>hepatitis C.</li><li>Urine test - to check for infection.</li><li>Cervical Screening Test - if you are due, this can be done safely in pregnancy.</li><li>Genetic tests</li><li>Ultrasound – which can look for a number of problems in your baby like spina bifida, heart and limb defects and to check your due date.</li></ul><p>Source: <a data-mce-href="https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/pregnancy-and-birth/now-you-are-pregnant/your-first-pregnancy-check-up" href="https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/pregnancy-and-birth/now-you-are-pregnant/your-first-pregnancy-check-up">https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/pregnancy-and-birth/now-you-are-pregnant/your-first-pregnancy-check-up</a></p><figure id="figure-fvsfjjk68dm1zmviqv" class=""><img id="fvsfjjk68dm1zmviqv" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1638202993928-7267aad84c31?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxkb2N0b3IlMjBjb25zdWx0YXRpb258ZW58MHx8fHwxNzI4MzQzMTMwfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="doctor consultation" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1638202993928-7267aad84c31?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxkb2N0b3IlMjBjb25zdWx0YXRpb258ZW58MHx8fHwxNzI4MzQzMTMwfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><p>Week 1 - Week 13 of Pregnancy with your GP:</p><p>Finding out how When you find out that you are pregnant, you should be on your 3rd-5th week of your pregnancy. Your GP is able to determine how many weeks you are pregnant by calculating your last day of ovulation. If your period is irregular, it will be harder to determine how many weeks you are &nbsp;pregnant. If this is the case, you could determine how many weeks you are pregnant with an ultrasound scan, which you can do around the 6th weeks of your pregnancy. There are two types of ultrasound scans available. The Abdominal Scan is free in most cases under medicare and there is the Transvaginal Ultrasound is more accurate but may incur a fees.&nbsp;</p><h2>Contacting Your Local Hospital</h2><p>Once the test are done with your GP, your GP will advice you to contact your local hospital to book in your 13th week scan at the hospital. If you decide to go with the public medicare system, the scans and checks with your local hospital are covered by medicare.&nbsp;</p><p>The pregnancy and birth care options available in Victoria vary according to where you live, the models of care available at the services in your area, your medical history and risk factors such as weight, age and experience during previous pregnancies.</p><p>Where resources are available, you are able to choose who will care for you during your pregnancy – midwives, GP, an obstetrician, or a combination of health professionals.</p><p>In some cases you may also be able to opt for a home birth.</p><p><br></p>

Your First Steps After Finding Out You're Pregnant

<h2>Preparing for Your Hospital Stay</h2><p>When expecting a baby, preparing for your hospital stay is important. Packing the right items can make your stay more comfortable and stress-free.</p><p>Here, we list essential items to consider bringing with you. These items will help you focus on welcoming your new addition.</p><h3>Things for you:</h3><ul><li>camera </li><li>your own pillow (labelled) if desired </li><li>heat pack </li><li>oil/lotion for massage </li><li>comfortable clothing, shoes (for daytime) </li><li>nightwear/dressing gown/slippers (footwear must be worn at all times) </li><li>clothes for labour and postnatal – comfortable T-shirt, good supportive underwear etc</li></ul><p>These items will help you feel more at ease during your stay.</p><h3>Things for Your Support Person:</h3><ul><li>Change of Clothes </li><li>Bathers and towel for bath and shower</li><li>Food – snacks/juice/special teas/ celebratory drinks if desired.</li></ul><p>Having these familiar products can provide comfort during your hospital stay.</p><figure id="figure-0sj5xqsxrqm1skxe2k"><img id="0sj5xqsxrqm1skxe2k" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1663876649/photo/portrait-of-young-happy-man-and-woman-holding-newborn-cute-babe-dressed-in-white-unisex.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=ErYxG2tKpkE5_C_xWwZw2-M1OSTJ_Q2pYaM_WeBTLEQ=" alt="Portrait of young happy man and woman holding newborn cute babe dressed in white unisex clothing." title="Portrait of young happy man and woman holding newborn cute babe dressed in white unisex clothing." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1663876649/photo/portrait-of-young-happy-man-and-woman-holding-newborn-cute-babe-dressed-in-white-unisex.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=ErYxG2tKpkE5_C_xWwZw2-M1OSTJ_Q2pYaM_WeBTLEQ=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Things for Your New Baby:</h3><p>Don't forget to pack for your newborn. Essential items include:</p><ul><li>Baby wipes </li><li>Nappies </li><li>Infant car restraint (for day of discharge) </li><li>clothes and blankets to take baby home in</li><li>if you are planning to use artificial formula to feed your baby, please bring the formula of your choice – either a can or sachets.</li></ul><p>These items will ensure your baby is comfortable and ready for the journey home.</p><p>can provide comfort and a sense of normalcy during your stay.</p><h3>Final Thoughts</h3><p>Packing for your hospital stay doesn't have to be overwhelming. Focus on comfort and essentials. This will help you stay relaxed and prepared for your new arrival.</p><p>By planning ahead, you can ensure a smoother hospital experience. Remember, the most important thing is welcoming your baby into the world.</p>

What to Bring to Hospital After Giving Birth

newborn on his father's arm screams crying with expression of suffering

<h2>Signs and Symptoms of Postnatal Depression (as per Centre of Perinatal Excellence) :</h2><p>Postpartum depression is a serious condition that affects many new mothers. It is important to understand the signs and know how to seek support. This knowledge can make a significant difference in the lives of mothers and their families.</p><p>Postpartum depression is more than just the "baby blues." While many women experience mood swings and mild depression after childbirth, postpartum depression is more severe and lasts longer. Recognizing the signs early can help in seeking the right support.</p><figure id="figure-ijgisu766km1skjy04"><img id="ijgisu766km1skjy04" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1526725702345-bdda2b97ef73?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxwb3N0cGFydHVtJTIwZGVwcmVzc2lvbnxlbnwwfHx8fDE3Mjc5MTU5Njd8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="postpartum depression" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1526725702345-bdda2b97ef73?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxwb3N0cGFydHVtJTIwZGVwcmVzc2lvbnxlbnwwfHx8fDE3Mjc5MTU5Njd8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><ol><li>Feeling low or numb some people describe feeling nothing at all</li><li>Lack of interest and/or enjoyment in life, yourself and/or the baby</li><li>No energy – finding it difficult to cope and get through the day (may also be attributed to lack of sleep)</li><li>Loss of confidence, feeling helpless, hopeless and worthless</li><li>Often feeling close to tears, highly sensitive to other’s comments or emotional</li><li>Feeling angry, irritable or resentful towards other mothers, the baby or your partner</li><li>Changes in sleep – not being able to sleep even when you have the opportunity, or conversely, wanting to sleep all the time</li><li>Changes in appetite – accompanied by weight loss or weight gain</li><li>Difficulties concentrating, thinking clearly or making decisions (which could also result from lack of sleep)</li><li>Feeling isolated, alone and disconnected from others</li><li>Having thoughts of harming yourself, baby and/or other children.</li></ol><p>Source: <a data-mce-href="https://www.cope.org.au/new-parents/postnatal-mental-health-conditions/postnatal-depression/" href="https://www.cope.org.au/new-parents/postnatal-mental-health-conditions/postnatal-depression/">https://www.cope.org.au/new-parents/postnatal-mental-health-conditions/postnatal-depression/</a></p><h3>What should you do if you think you have postnatal depression?</h3><p>Support can come from various sources, including family, friends, and professionals. Here are some steps to take:</p><ol><li>Speak with your GP/Midwife</li><li>Speak to your partner </li><li>Speak to your maternity healthcare provider </li><li>Present to hospital if required</li></ol><figure id="figure-tncw4h8e79m1skk00j"><img id="tncw4h8e79m1skk00j" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1612294502681-9721ac04b850?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxM3x8bW90aGVyJTIwc3VwcG9ydHxlbnwwfHx8fDE3Mjc5MTU5NzB8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="mother support" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1612294502681-9721ac04b850?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxM3x8bW90aGVyJTIwc3VwcG9ydHxlbnwwfHx8fDE3Mjc5MTU5NzB8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><p>Professional help is often also improves the well-being of the baby and the entire family.</p><p>Family members and friends should also be aware of the signs of postpartum depression. They can play a key role in encouraging the mother to seek help and providing emotional support during this challenging time.</p><p>Understanding postpartum depression and knowing how to seek support are crucial steps in helping new mothers navigate this difficult period. By recognizing the signs and taking action, we can create a supportive environment for mothers and their families.</p>

Understanding Postpartum Depression: Signs and Support

<h2>Understanding Safe Sleep Guidelines</h2><p>It is recommended that parents follow the Red Nose organisations recommendations for safe sleeping. These are:</p><p>Always place your baby on their back to sleep </p><p>Keep your baby’s face and head uncovered </p><p>Keep your baby smoke free, before and after birth </p><p>Safe sleeping environment, night and day </p><p>Your baby should sleep in their own safe sleep space in the your room for the first 6 months </p><p>Breastfeed your baby</p><p>Source: <a data-mce-href="https://rednose.org.au/article/red-nose-six-safe-sleep-recommendations%20https://rednose.org.au/news/what-is-a-safe-sleeping-environment-for-your-baby" href="https://rednose.org.au/article/red-nose-six-safe-sleep-recommendations%20https://rednose.org.au/news/what-is-a-safe-sleeping-environment-for-your-baby" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://rednose.org.au/article/red-nose-six-safe-sleep-recommendations https://rednose.org.au/news/what-is-a-safe-sleeping-environment-for-your-baby</a></p><figure id="figure-vqtq6vrsc9m1skceoz"><img id="vqtq6vrsc9m1skceoz" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1429117237875-aa29229d99f0?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw5fHxzYWZlJTIwc2xlZXB8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzI3OTE1NjE2fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="safe sleep" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1429117237875-aa29229d99f0?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw5fHxzYWZlJTIwc2xlZXB8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzI3OTE1NjE2fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></figure><p>Keep the room at a comfortable temperature. Overheating can increase the risk of SIDS. Dress your baby in light sleep clothing and avoid heavy blankets.</p><p>Use a sleep sack or wearable blanket if extra warmth is needed. These are safer alternatives to loose blankets.</p><h3>Room Sharing vs. Bed Sharing</h3><p>Experts recommend room sharing without bed sharing. Place your baby's crib or bassinet in your room for the first six months. This can help with monitoring and feeding during the night.</p><p>Bed sharing can be dangerous due to the risk of suffocation or accidental injury. Always place your baby in their own sleep space.</p><h3>Creating a Routine</h3><p>Establishing a bedtime routine can help your baby sleep better. Consistency is key. Bathing, feeding, and reading can signal to your baby that it is time to sleep.</p><p>Keep the environment calm and quiet. Dim the lights and reduce noise to create a soothing atmosphere.</p><h3>Monitoring and Adjusting</h3><p>Regularly check your baby's temperature as well as the room's temperature.&nbsp;</p>

Creating a Safe Sleeping Environment for Your Baby

Loving mom carying of her newborn baby at home.

<h2>Benefits of Breastfeeding</h2><p>Breastfeeding offers many benefits for both the baby and the mother. It provides the perfect nutrition for infants. Breast milk contains the right balance of nutrients that a baby needs for healthy growth and development.</p><p>Breastfeeding also helps to strengthen the bond between mother and baby. The close physical contact during breastfeeding can make the baby feel secure and loved.</p><p>For mothers, breastfeeding can help in losing pregnancy weight faster. It burns extra calories and helps the uterus return to its pre-pregnancy size more quickly.</p><h2>Challenges of Breastfeeding</h2><h3>Physical Discomfort</h3><p>Many mothers experience physical discomfort while breastfeeding. Sore nipples and engorged breasts are common issues. Proper latching techniques can help reduce these problems. Nipple shields and silverette nursing cups are great tools that could help ease the pain.&nbsp;</p><h3>Time and Commitment</h3><p>Breastfeeding requires a significant time commitment. Newborns need to be fed frequently, which can be demanding for mothers. This can make it difficult to manage other responsibilities. Having a roster and planner would help ease this process.&nbsp;</p><figure id="figure-qxe3aiyn5pm1sjz5u2"><img id="qxe3aiyn5pm1sjz5u2" src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1413851125/photo/mother-breastfeeding-her-newborn-baby-boy-realistic-home-portrait.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=dBuUPp90COgUzs7YwuvzdqXkyrciooTmGe1To0HLY40=" alt="Mother breastfeeding her newborn baby boy. Realistic home portrait" title="Mother breastfeeding her newborn baby boy. Realistic home portrait" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://media.gettyimages.com/id/1413851125/photo/mother-breastfeeding-her-newborn-baby-boy-realistic-home-portrait.jpg?b=1&amp;s=2048x2048&amp;w=0&amp;k=20&amp;c=dBuUPp90COgUzs7YwuvzdqXkyrciooTmGe1To0HLY40=" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h2>Tips From Midwives</h2><p>Sometimes having skin-to-skin will make it easy for your baby to attach. Its normal for babies to need help. Midwives may encourage you to have skin-to-skin as soon as the baby is born. As it helps get breastfeeding off to a good start. A midwife, partner or others can help by arranging pillows, blankets and generally encouraging you. Babies don't like too many people touching them. Continue to keep the baby close to you, with lots of cuddles and skin-to-skin contact over the first few days and weeks. Keeping your baby close day and night will help you understand their hunger and tired signs.</p><p>Colostrum (first milk) is a concentrated milk which is important for your baby’s immune system. Babies only need small amounts in the early days. Look for signs that your baby is ready to feed, such as opening their mouth, licking their lips and searching behaviour or bringing their hand to their mouth. Babies are more alert and show clear hunger signs within a couple of days. They will breastfeed eight to twelve or more times in a 24-hour period.</p><p><br></p>

Blog

Signs You Might Be in Labour

Your First Steps After Finding Out You're Pregnant

What to Bring to Hospital After Giving Birth

Understanding Postpartum Depression: Signs and Support

Creating a Safe Sleeping Environment for Your Baby

The Benefits and Challenges of Breastfeeding and Useful Tips