Recently we asked Natalie van Winckel, Senior Early Parenting Sleep Consultant and Education Lead from Nourish Baby and Safe Sleep Space, to share her insights into what separates noisy babies from others who are less vocal.
]]>It’s true to say that some babies are more than generous in sharing with the world that they’re around. Others are happy to stay in their own little bubble, quietly cooing and babbling away to themselves. Crying, squealing and grunting are common languages for babies who don’t seem to have a volume control. If your little person is one of many who could be described as a ‘noisy baby’, welcome to the club.
Recently we asked Natalie van Winckel, Senior Early Parenting Sleep Consultant and Education Lead from Nourish Baby and Safe Sleep Space, to share her insights into what separates noisy babies from others who are less vocal.
Natalie said that in her experience, crying during settling is often different to crying during other periods. “Crying during settling often involves more prolonged or intense vocalisations compared to typical baby noises.” “Simple or normal baby noises are often shorter and more varied, like grizzles, coos or sucking sounds.”
When it comes to newborns and young babies, Natalie explained, “They can make noises in their sleep for a few reasons, their immature gut/brain connection could be causing lots of grunting, wriggling and squirming when the baby is sleeping even though their eyes may be closed.” “Their little digestive systems are still developing and this can cause more noises associated with their digestion.” “In most cases, these noises are a very normal part of their development.”
Natalie advises parents who may be worried to take a recording of their baby when they’re sleeping and making these noises and seeking out medical advice. Our baby sleep guide provides all the information and support you need as a parent.
Another important point which Natalie shared is that “Newborns spend a significant window, up to 75% of their sleep, in the Rapid Eye Movement (REM) Phase.”
“This kind of sleep is much lighter and they may exhibit facial twitches, eye movement and little smiles, as well as sounds or cry outs.” Babies are also born with a startle reflex, “And this can lead to startled sounds or brief wakeups if they’re exposed to sudden loud noises or movements.” “The startle reflex does diminish with age.” Natalie reported.
Swaddling can be a good strategy to help contain a young baby’s startle reflex. But it’s important to leave the baby’s arms free once their startle reflex disappears, at around 3 months of age.
When it comes to why some babies are noisier than others, Natalie said that in her experience, “Factors such as individual temperament, developmental stages, some babies just being naturally more vocal and others being quieter” are common features. And for lots of little people “They like to make noises which help them to self soothe or wind down in preparation for their sleep, it can be very comforting for them.”
Parents can find that sometimes it’s hard to work out why a baby is crying, especially when all their needs have been met and they still seem unsettled. It’s important that parents are emotionally and physically available to help their baby soothe and settle.
It can help to get support from others and remind ourselves, parenting is often difficult. With time and gut maturity, most babies develop fairly regular patterns of feeding, sleeping and being awake. Getting to that age and stage is different for every baby.
So, now we understand more about why some babies are noisier than others what can we do to comfort them when they’re making those vocal exchanges? And importantly, do we need to do anything? Again, Natalie shared the benefits of her experience, “You know your baby best.” “Often a listen and wait approach can be beneficial to see what those little noises are telling us; if they decrease from grizzling to cooing or sucking, then the baby is managing.”
“If these noises increase from grizzling to crying, then offering some voice comfort such as shshing or coming down to the side of the cot or bassinet and offering some gentle hands on comfort may be all your little one requires to settle back into a deeper sleep.” “If at any time, you’re not comfortable with your baby’s noises, go in and check on them as often as you need to.”
It can be helpful then for parents to try to interpret their baby’s cries and noises as being unique, according what they need. Just like adults, babies adjust their pitch and intensity when they’re communicating, depending on what they want to say. But interpreting individual cries and protests and decoding them is often challenging, especially for exhausted parents.
A common household scenario is that baby cries and parent quickly responds – often with the aim of supporting the baby to calm in the shortest way possible. Because hearing our baby cry, especially when we’re sleep deprived, can be particularly difficult and sometimes, intensely irritating.
Babies go (and grow) through different stages of vocal development. By 3 to 6 months, babies tend to become more aware of their own voice. This is the age when skills in cooing and gurgling for pleasure are developing. Babies also begin babbling and listening more intently at around 3- 4 months. These are skills which help to support their speech and language development.
Natalie added, “Whenever a baby is learning a new developmental skill, they will often go through a period of having noisier sleep.” “You will often see this when your little one is learning to coo, learning to speak new words, or when they begin to dream and (perhaps) want to recall their dream they’ve just had.”
“Around the time your baby starts solids or changes milk types, digestive issues may sound more discomforting.” Natalie recommended parents make a note of these noises and how their baby’s sleep has been over a few nights, then discussing this with their health professional to know the best way to manage.
Noisy breathing is a different matter to crying and squealing. Sometimes babies make a noise when they breathe – medically known as stridor. One of the many reasons for stridor is a condition called laryngomalacia, or ‘floppy larynx’. This is caused by the soft tissues in the baby’s larynx (voice box) being soft and floppy, most frequently from birth.
The majority of babies with laryngomalacia don’t have problems with their breathing or feeding, it’s just their breathing is noisy. By around 12 months of age, most babies have grown out of laryngomalacia.
Remember to have your baby checked by a doctor if you are worried about their breathing.
Check our blog for more interesting and informative articles or check out our range of antenatal education resources.
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry, Midwife and Child Health Nurse.
If you want to avoid becoming pregnant, you’ll need to decide on an effective form of contraception. You and your partner have choices around what is right for you. The most common forms of contraception recommended after birth are condoms, progestogen only pills or the contraceptive implant.
Many women find they’re not interested in having sex after having a baby and consider contraception to be unnecessary. The general advice from health care providers is to wait at least four – six weeks after birth to allow for healing. A good time to discuss your contraceptive options will be at your postnatal check.
It’s normal to bleed for up to six weeks after having a baby. At first, blood loss (lochia) is heavy and bright red for the first couple of days. Gradually the colour changes to a reddish brown before stopping. Close to two weeks after having a baby, it’s normal to have a whitish discharge which can also be tinged with old blood.
There is no standard pattern of bleeding after having a baby. However, many women find they pass more blood clots than they usually do. They also have a break of a few weeks (or months) after having their baby, before their periods resume.
One way to tell the difference between post baby bleeding and a true period is that lochia can be lighter and more watery. It also smells different to period bleeding.
Most women are fertile two weeks before their period starts. However, breastfeeding can delay the return of periods, making it hard for women to know with any confidence when their ‘fertile window’ may be. This is why some women conceive again before their periods have come back.
Periods generally return any time from around six weeks to three months after a baby is born. Breastfeeding, formula or mixed feeding affect the timing of when periods return.
These contraceptive methods are considered safe for breastfeeding women:
The mini pill – Also called the progesterone only pill. It’s important to take the mini pill at exactly the same time each day so it can be up to 99.7 % effective.
Condoms – The male condom is a fine rubber or synthetic sheath worn over the erect penis. Condoms prevent sperm from entering the vagina and uterus. When used perfectly, condoms are 98% effective. The female condom is a soft, rubber like pouch with flexible rings at each end, with one closed end. Female condoms are considered to be 95% effective in preventing pregnancy.
Diaphragm – A type of cap made from silicone which covers the cervix and stops sperm from entering the uterus. When used properly, diaphragms are assessed to be 84% effective.
Contraceptive injection – Commonly called by its trade name ‘Depo-Provera® or ‘Depo Ralovera®. This is a hormonal injection which needs to be given every 12 weeks. When used perfectly, this injection is 99.8% effective.
Implanon – A small plastic rod which is inserted under the skin on the inside of the woman’s upper arm. This contains progesterone which prevents the ovaries from releasing an egg each month. The Implanon implant lasts for three years and is 99.95% effective.
Intrauterine Device – Also called an IUD. This is a small device which is implanted in the uterus. Copper UIDs are designed to last for up to 10 years and progesterone IUDs for up to five years. Copper IUDs are 99.4% effective and Progesterone IUDs are 99.8 % effective.
Permanent sterilisation – For women this is also called tubal ligation or ‘getting the tubes tied’. This is a surgical procedure where the fallopian tubes are cut, blocked and sealed off. For men, permanent sterilisation refers to a vasectomy which involves cutting the tubes in the testes which carry sperm to the penis. Both of the procedures are considered to be 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.
Vaginal ring* – This works in a similar way to the contraceptive pill by releasing hormones which prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg each month. *The vaginal ring is not recommended for women whose baby is aged less than six weeks and who are breastfeeding.
Avoid using any contraception which contains oestrogen if you are breastfeeding. The vaginal ring and the combined (oestrogen and progesterone) pill are not recommended for breastfeeding women, unless their baby is at least six weeks old. This is because oestrogen can reduce breastmilk supply.
Breastfeeding can be an effective means of contraception as it delays the return of ovulation and periods. There is still a risk you could fall pregnant when you are breastfeeding and you may choose to use other, more effective means of contraception.
To lessen your risk of conceiving when breastfeeding ensure all of these:
Also called the ‘morning after’ pill, the emergency contraceptive pill needs to be taken as soon as possible, (not necessarily in the morning) after having unprotected sex. There are two types of pills which are available from pharmacies and which don’t require a doctor’s prescription.
Make sure you’re not pregnant. Do a pregnancy test and speak with your GP or healthcare provider if you’re unsure. Discuss with your partner what is right for you both.
Effectiveness, convenience, cost and lifestyle are all important considerations when making contraception decisions if you want to avoid an unplanned pregnancy.
Speak with your GP, midwife or maternity care provider.
What is contraception? – Play Safe (nsw.gov.au)
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
Contraception - female (internal) condoms - Better Health Channel
]]>An epidural is an anaesthetic procedure, where a local anaesthetic is injected into the epidural space near the spinal cord. An epidural anaesthetic numbs the nerves so pain cannot be felt in certain areas of the body.
An epidural during labour helps to block pain signals from contractions. If birth intervention is needed, e.g., caesarean or forceps, an epidural is a common form of anaesthetic.
]]>An epidural is an anaesthetic procedure, where a local anaesthetic is injected into the epidural space near the spinal cord. An epidural anaesthetic numbs the nerves so pain cannot be felt in certain areas of the body.
An epidural during labour helps to block pain signals from contractions. If birth intervention is needed, e.g., caesarean or forceps, an epidural is a common form of anaesthetic.
An anaesthetist administers an epidural and works in partnership with you and your maternity care provider to offer you choices about pain relief. You will need to have an intravenous (IV) drip inserted first.
The anaesthetist will ask you to either sit up on the side of the bed, bending over from the waist, or lie on your side with your legs bent up. Getting into the right position may be uncomfortable, especially as it will be difficult to bend with a big belly. First, they may clean the area of skin around the site where the needle will go in.
An epidural needle will be inserted into your back and a fine plastic tube will then be inserted through the middle of the needle. Once the tubing is checked to be in the right place, the needle will be removed. The length of tubing will be taped onto your back and will provide the entry point for anaesthetic medications to be given. Because it’s important for your anaesthetist to check they have the right location, they will first inject a small amount of anaesthetic through the small tube which has been placed into the epidural space. Once they are certain the tube is positioned correctly, they will inject more anaesthetic until it’s working well.
An epidural anaesthetic takes between 15-30 minutes to work.
Epidurals are usually given in the first stage of labour. However, they can be given during any stage. Generally, when the cervix is 4-5 centimetres or more dilated, active labour is happening and this is the peak time for an epidural.
Sometimes it’s not obvious that an epidural is needed until the second stage when it may become clear that birth intervention is necessary.
You may not have included an epidural in your birth plan or thought about it seriously until you are in labour. Many women plan not to have pain relief during their labour, though change their mind when they are having contractions. Your maternity care provider may recommend you have an epidural, though the ultimate choice is yours.
There are many benefits to having an epidural, though one of the major ones is that they allow for a mother to stay awake and experience less pain during her baby’s birth.
An epidural is not without risks, though they are considered a safe procedure for most labouring women. They are a routine procedure in most (large) maternity hospitals and are widely accepted as an effective option for pain relief.
It’s important to not lie flat on your back once the epidural is in place. This can cause a drop in blood pressure. The best position is to sit up or lie on your side.
It can take several hours for the numbness/weakness to wear off after having an epidural. It’s important not to try and get up and/or walk unless you’ve first been checked by your maternity care provider.
It has been shown that epidurals can slow a woman’s labour and increase her chances of needing to have an oxytocin drip. When the second stage of labour slows down, this may then increase the chance of needing a forceps delivery. This slowing of labour is felt to be related to the effect of an epidural on the labouring mother’s pelvic floor muscles, guiding the baby’s head as it enters the vagina in the optimal position. If these muscles aren’t working as they need to, failure to progress in labour may result. This can then increase the risk of needing forceps or a caesarean section.
Some women who’ve had previous back surgery cannot have an epidural.
If you’ve had problems with blood clotting or infection, you may need to discuss alternative pain relief options.
Not every hospital offers epidural anaesthesia, especially small, rural hospitals who don’t have access to an anaesthetist or obstetrician.
A top up of anaesthetic can be given via the catheter which is already in place in your epidural space. If you start feeling uncomfortable, and as if the epidural is wearing off, speak with your midwife or obstetrician. They will be able to top up your anaesthetic when it is needed.
You may also have a constant flow infusion which is keeping you comfortable.
Another alternative is to have a patient controlled anaesthetic option. This involves pushing a button which then releases a small amount of anaesthetic as it is needed.
Speak with your midwife or obstetrician about what’s right for you. Initiate a conversation about epidurals while you are pregnant so you’ve got some understanding of what’s involved before you’re in labour. It can also be useful to explore pain relief options, including epidurals, during antenatal classes or through a birthing course.
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
Epidural anaesthetic | healthdirect
Epidurals | Health and wellbeing | Queensland Government (www.qld.gov.au)
https://birthinternational.com/epidurals-real-risks-for-mother-and-baby/
]]>An induced labour, also called an induction or Induction of Labour (IOL), is a process where labour is started artificially. A maternity care provider, either a midwife or obstetrician, uses techniques to mechanically dilate the cervix, break the membranes (waters) or start the contractions. Often, an induction is a combination of two or more of these procedures.
Statistically, in Australia, one in three women have their labour induced. Generally, inductions are done in hospital, though having a ‘stretch and sweep’ procedure (see below) can also happen during an antenatal appointment.
It’s important that you feel fully informed and give your consent to having your labour induced. It’s also valuable for you to understand that the benefits are clear and the risks minimal. Your maternity care provider has a professional responsibility to discuss the benefits and risks of an induction.
It’s fair to expect your maternity care provider to explain why you need an induction, what the risks are of having or not having one and what may happen if you wait for your labour to start naturally. You also need to understand how your labour will be induced and what options you have.
Normally, labour starts without intervention between 37-42 weeks of pregnancy. The waters break and/or, contractions start and labour progresses naturally.
Natural labour tends to be slower than an induced labour. The contractions build slowly until they become more frequent and more intense. In an induced labour, contractions can start very quickly and be strong from the start. Women who have an induced labour can feel they need pain relief earlier in their labour.
Having an induced labour increases the risk of needing further interventions. This can include having a forceps or ventouse assisted birth. Birthing women who have an induction can also have less opportunity to be mobile during their baby’s birth because the baby needs monitoring more closely.
As a baby’s due date approaches, nature prepares the cervix to start thinning and dilating. However, if there’s a risk to a mother’s or her baby’s health, inducing labour can be the safest option. By two weeks past the baby’s due date, the amniotic fluid can start to reduce in volume and there can be an increased risk of the baby being larger than average. There is also an increased risk of general maternal and foetal complications.
There are a few reasons why induction can be recommended. Generally, an induction is recommended when there are risks to a mother’s or her baby’s health by continuing with the pregnancy.
Some women find advanced pregnancy very difficult to tolerate. In some circumstances, a woman’s request for an induction is considered if she feels her physical and mental health is being compromised by waiting until labour starts naturally.
An induction of labour is not recommended for all women. Women who have had a previous caesarean section and who are induced with subsequent labours are at a higher risk of having a uterine rupture.
If the placenta is lying over the cervix, placenta praevia, or the baby is lying sideways or breech, an induction is generally not recommended.
Other reasons why an induction may not be recommended are if a mother has a primary genital herpes infection at the time of birth, or within six weeks of her due date. An induction is also not recommended if a woman has cancer of the cervix or any other contraindications to labour or vaginal birth.
Your doctor or midwife will do a vaginal examination and check your cervix. This procedure can be uncomfortable, but this will provide important information about how ready you are for labour and if your labour has started.
The general agreement is that having an induction is a solution when there are risks in waiting until natural labour starts. However, there can also be some risks associated with an induction.
Only you, your partner and your maternity care provider can know what is right for you. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure, especially when pregnant and it’s so important to make careful decisions. There are many factors to consider when deciding whether the benefits of having an induction outweigh the risks. Speak openly with your maternity care provider and let them know if you have any concerns.
You have agency over your body and it’s important you feel empowered and sufficiently informed to make decisions around what is right for you and your baby. Our online birthing course can provide helpful information to understand and take charge of your labour experience with modules covering delivery, postpartum care and more.
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
Induced labour | Pregnancy Birth and Baby (pregnancybirthbaby.org.au)
Inducing labor: When to wait, when to induce - Mayo Clinic
Induction of labour | The Royal Women's Hospital (thewomens.org.au)
]]>There is nothing more rewarding than giving birth to a newborn baby and being able to take them home after nine months of cravings, hormones and pains. But parenting doesn’t get any easier after childbirth. A recent online survey revealed that the most common struggles for parents in the first year include lack of sleep, baby’s ability to sleep, feeding, recovery from birth and taking care of their other children.
Balancing these things becomes all the more challenging when you consider that your baby’s first 12 months is the most important part of their life. The habits your baby is exposed to during that first year can have long-lasting effects on their life and their ability to form meaningful, healthy relationships with others. Our Baby Sleep Guide will help you understand your baby as well as sleeping and settling.
Attachment theory and your baby’s early life
One of the most important ways we think about modern parenting is through the lens of attachment theory. Attachment is not always easy to describe in a few short sentences, but it was perhaps described most eloquently by Mary Ainsworth as:
“...the deep and enduring emotional bond that connects one person to another across time and space.”
The ‘father of Attachment Theory,’ John Bowlby proposed that babies have an innate drive to be bonded to another for safety, security and survival. This theory proposes that the way parents respond to a baby's efforts to connect will influence how each baby learns about relationships.
Attachment theory is much broader and deeper than this description. However, Bowlby’s 1950’s work has been strongly supported over the past 20 years through extensive Relational and Neuroscientific research.
There are specific features identified in Attachment Theory that relate to the quality of each baby’s experiences. A baby needs to:
When a baby experiences a world that provides these basics, they know there will be a special person who can provide comfort when needed. This is also crucial to teaching babies to tolerate separation from their caregiver without debilitating anxiety.
When all these needs are met in a predictable and consistent way, the baby is most likely to develop what is classified as ‘secure attachment’. If however a parent cannot provide this type of care, it is likely the baby will need to develop internal mechanisms to protect themselves. This is where the initial defence mechanisms begin to develop, leading to characteristics that are classified as ‘insecure attachment’.
If a baby experiences chaotic, frightening and erratic care, it is likely that the baby will then develop what is classified as ‘disorganised attachment’. It is difficult to think that a baby has to fend for themselves in this world, but it often leads to difficulties relating to others and forming trusting relationships.
What is attachment parenting?
Teaching kids to become self-sufficient is a major part of parenting. But, when your baby is very young, they’re going to need all the help they can get. Forget any notion you have of teaching self-sufficiency at a young age.
While some parenting styles call for tactics like allowing the baby to “cry it out,” the science has shown that excessive crying can be harmful to your baby’s development. Attachment parenting is the opposite of these tactics. Under attachment parenting, parents give as much care and attention as their baby calls for. That includes responding to cries at all hours, feeding at inconvenient times, spending time with your baby when you have other responsibilities and much more.
As difficult and frustrating as attachment parenting can be, it’s one of the most effective ways of forming this early bond. As Dr. Sears reminds us all, babies cry to communicate with us, not to manipulate. The 3am morning cries are something that we just have to cope with.
Attachment parenting when one parent is away
Parenting can be challenging, even when both parents are at home. But, if one parent has to leave the house regularly or for extended periods, attachment parenting can’t simply come to a stop. If your partner regularly spends time away from home (like FIFO work), these tips can help to maintain consistency in your parenting:
Attachment parenting when both parents return home
Make time to reconnect as a couple. Evidence has shown that departure and return home times are periods of peak stress. Adult depression and anxiety are also more common in the lead up to separation and reunification.
Prioritise jobs which have to get done when you’re both home. But remember that it’s important to have fun as well. Accept that it will be enough on some days just to do the basics – anything else will be a bonus.
5 tips for effective parenting during periods of separation
While attachment parenting is typically designed to give your baby the best start in life, maintaining those close, supporting relationships is important at every stage of life. If you and your partner experience repeated periods of separation, these 5 tips can make it easier to parent your children and give them supportive childhood:
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Having a baby is an incredibly rewarding experience, but pregnancy is also a time that comes with plenty of changes. To help manage the changes to your body, health and lifestyle, many new parents turn to antenatal classes.
Antenatal classes are dedicated to expecting parents. Led by doctors, nurses, midwives or other healthcare professionals, antenatal classes help you navigate the pregnancy experience. Many parents choose to attend antenatal classes at their local hospital or clinic. Alternatively, options are available online so you can review the material whenever you like. The content of each course varies slightly, but most instructors will cover a range of common topics. In this article we’ll provide a comprehensive guide to antenatal classes and what you can expect to learn.
What are antenatal classes?
Antenatal classes – also known as prenatal classes or childbirth education – are designed to prepare you for your upcoming labour, birth and the first few weeks with your newborn baby. They include advice, medical information, practical exercises and support for the changes that are happening to your body and what you can expect, all in a baby sleep guide.
Do I need to go to antenatal classes?
There is no requirement to attend antenatal classes. But, antenatal classes provide hands-on skills and give you a chance to plan your next move. If you want to minimise your stress during pregnancy, birth and early childhood, antenatal classes can provide the support you and your partner need.
What is taught in antenatal classes?
Finding accurate, up to date information on pregnancy can be challenging, so this is the first topic covered in antenatal classes. To make sure your pregnancy experience is a positive one, your instructor will focus on facts and prepare you for what happens at each stage of the journey. They’ll provide the information you need to make informed decisions and take care of yourself and your developing baby. You can expect an antenatal class to cover a range of topics:
Antenatal classes are open to pregnant mothers and their partners. Partners are encouraged to take part so that they’re prepared for everything that lies ahead. Most antenatal classes include topics just for partners, so encouraging them to get involved is a great idea.
Antenatal classes cover the labour and childbirth process in depth. The information provided is intended to help you plan for what comes next. Antenatal classes dive into all the details, so you’ll have time to think through your options. Labour comes with several major decisions about childbirth methods, pain management and your newborn’s care. Antenatal classes will prepare you for what’s ahead and help you decide how you’d like to manage your own experience. Classes cover a range of labour and delivery topics, such as:
Parenthood begins as soon as your baby is in your arms. That might sound daunting, but antenatal classes cover everything you need to know about looking after your newborn. Feeding is a major part of caring for your baby, so it’s also a central topic for antenatal classes. Beyond that, your instructor will provide information about:
Antenatal classes cover the pregnancy, labour and birth experience as a whole. While much of the content is focused on caring for your baby, the final component includes postpartum support on caring for your baby, the final component includes postpartum support for mothers. Recovering from pregnancy isn’t always straightforward, and it’s important to look after your mind and body as you adjust to your new lifestyle. The postpartum material covered by our antenatal education resources includes information about:
How much do Antenatal Classes cost?
There are a number of options when it comes to antenatal classes, with the cost and availability varying depending on where you live. Some antenatal class costs may also be eligible for a rebate with your private health care provider:
The maternity hospital where you plan to have your baby may offer antenatal classes. Class costs are inconsistent across Australia, but you can expect to pay about $200-$300 for hospital-based antenatal classes.
The increasingly popular hypno-birthing technique uses deep relaxation, self-hypnosis and specific breathing exercises to help manage pain during labour. Classes cost around $500.
The Calmbirth approach is focused on reducing anxiety, promoting “calm” and the release of endorphins – then enhancing the effects of this pain relief hormone to your benefit. Similar to hypno-birthing, it uses relaxation, breathing and visualisation exercises. Classes cost about $500.
The foundation of Active Birth is putting you in “control” of your labour (and pain management) embracing the highs and lows and essentially “going with the flow”. If you’re hoping for a natural, unmedicated birth, this one’s for you. Class costs range from about $250-$400.
If none of the above options work for you, an online antenatal class is something you should consider. Online education provides classes you can watch in your own time and at your own pace, as many times as you need. Online antenatal classes are also perfect for 2nd or 3rd time mums who are looking for a refresher. Classes start from about $55 as well as our antenatal bundles from $149.
What other preparation should I do during my pregnancy?
While some antenatal classes cover breastfeeding basics, it’s worth thinking about taking a specific breastfeeding class. Breastfeeding doesn’t always come naturally, and understanding the intricacies of breastfeeding will help give you the confidence you need to achieve your breastfeeding goals.
Nutrition during pregnancy is known to have a significant effect on your baby’s growth and development. Good nutrition not only promotes overall health, it gives you adequate stores of essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals to support your growing baby. It is also vital for normal organ development and function, growth and maintenance, energy and immunity.
The benefits of moderate exercise during pregnancy are endless. It can help manage back pain and strain as your belly grows, increase energy and promote quality sleep. More importantly, it prepares your body for the demands of labour and birth and can decrease labour duration and intensity! As your fitness builds, you may like to participate in the instructor-led pregnancy exercise video found in our labour and birthing course. It includes a range of safe exercises adapted to each trimester of your pregnancy and is compatible with your smart device too.
The transition to parenthood isn’t always easy and it’s often not what we expected! Understanding the emotional changes that may take place will help you manage and optimise your psychological health, potentially conditions such as postnatal depression. Get your hands on a good parenting preparation book or find an expectant couple workshop in your local area. It’s well worth the investment.
When should I book my antenatal classes?
No bookings required if you choose the online antenatal class route. If you are looking to attend an in-person class, it’s best to book early so you don’t miss out. Towards the end of your second trimester (around 18-20 weeks) is recommended. In terms of actually attending the classes – you’ll want to do them in your third trimester (around 30 weeks) so it’s top of mind as your baby gets closer. Complementing your hospital class with an online antenatal class is also a great option as you can continue to replay the videos throughout your pregnancy and after your baby is born.]]>
The adjustment to early parenting is not something that anyone can really prepare you for. Your world shifts, and baby comes first. Babies let you know when they need something, and they do not have the social grace to be patient. The emotions evoked by a crying baby are no coincidence either, because without the care of another, a human baby would not survive.
One of the biggest challenges that comes with caring for a newborn is sleep and settling. Many new parents struggle with settling, and no matter how much you feed, change or burp your baby, nothing seems to work. In this article we’re going to discuss sleep and settling in more detail. But, before we get started, it’s important to know that nobody can make a baby sleep. The advice below as well as that within our Baby Sleep Guide is meant to be a guideline, but it’s still up to you to develop routines and techniques that suit you, your family and your baby.
Many babies struggle to drift to sleep at some time or another. A large study in the UK found that about two thirds of parents had lied about their baby’s sleep in the past. The main reason for lying was that parents felt their sleepless baby was a reflection of their parenting ability. It’s unfortunate that parents feel the need to lie, but if two thirds of families have baby sleep problems, then maybe irregular sleep is the norm.
But why is that? It’s largely because babies are still developing. Young babies are unable to regulate their body temperature, which is a critical factor in human sleep. Worse, babies can’t reach their food source unaided, they can’t regulate intense emotions, and they’re unaware of the importance of sleep. This adds up to mean that baby sleep problems are incredibly common, and they’re also totally normal.
Some parents may be tempted to expect great things from their baby, such as going into their cot and falling to sleep when they are tired! But some babies, depending on who they are, may need more assistance to wind down and calm for sleep than others. In the first 3 to 4 months, babies can become overwhelmed quite quickly, and need care and soothing from an adult. If you’re struggling to settle your baby then you can try:
- Rhythmical rocking motions, or a cuddle, or both
- Shh-ing sounds, just like those the baby heard during their time in utero
- Using a sling
- Taking a stroll in the pram
- Feed your baby or giving a dummy to suck on
Whatever you offer, keep in mind that your baby may respond sometimes and not others. Having a number of tricks up your sleeve is the best way to calm a fussy baby when the usual tactics aren’t working. Our baby sleep guide comprehensively covers safe sleeping, wrapping, safety and more.
Baby sleep and settling in the 21st century
Your baby’s sleep schedule can be one of the most challenging parts of being a new parent. Particularly for those who’ve grown up in the modern world, it can be difficult to find advice and support that actually works for your family. Unfortunately, that leaves many new parents turning to the internet for advice, and the information doesn’t always provide the knowledge we need.
The internet has plenty of advice and solutions, but it’s often based on idealised expectations of baby sleep. Advice can be helpful, but it may also be a hindrance where conflicting advice becomes confusing. Similarly, advice from friends is great, but it may not be suited to every parenting style or the needs of your baby.
Ultimately, this makes sleep and settling a bigger challenge than it ever has been. But the reality remains the same. Your baby’s genetic makeup and experience makes them unique, and it informs their sleeping habits. That means it’s perfectly okay to seek advice from an online parenting course and to take advice from friends, but make sure it’s something that works for your family. If you receive advice that you think won’t work, chances are that your instincts are correct.
Baby and toddler massages for helping sleep
Touch is one of the first ways we communicate with each other. Babies in-utero are constantly having indirect contact with their mother’s muscles and tissues, and their body is accustomed to feeling some degree of gentle friction.
Skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth is promoted as being an incredibly positive way to build emotional connection between parents and their baby. It makes sense that babies generally respond to massage because it builds on what they are used to. And toddlers who are used to being massaged as babies learn that it is a lovely thing.
Why Baby and Toddler Massages Are So Good
Massage does appear to reduce levels of stress hormones in unsettled babies. Skin to skin contact also seems to improve a baby’s health, boost weight gain in premature babies, ease crying and have a positive effect on the interaction between a mother and her baby.
It is worth knowing there is no current evidence supporting infant massage as having a positive effect on babies’ growth or development.
How to Give Your Baby or Toddler Massage
Remember, there’s no ‘right’ way to massage. What is important is that you are gentle and sensitive to your baby or toddler’s responses. Expect your toddler to be more mobile and distractible than a young baby.
- Ask your child’s permission first before you massage them. Although they will not understand what you are saying, they will pick up on the tone of your voice. Seeking permission is also a respectful way of acknowledging your baby’s rights over their own body.
- Pick a time when you are both calm and happy. Make sure you are not in a rush to be somewhere else and can be fully focused on your baby.
- Choose a safe and stable place to massage your child. Their change table/mat, a bed, their cot or even the floor are all good options.
- Get organised by warming the room or picking a warm spot in your house, so your child doesn’t become cold. Choose a room which has filtered light and where there are no draughts.
- Lay out a couple of towels for your child to lie on and have some massage or vegetable oil handy. Avoid using nut oils in case of allergies.
- Take off your jewellery and warm your own hands. Rub a little oil or massage lotion between your hands. Take some deep, relaxing breaths and make a conscious effort to be ‘in the moment’ with your little one.
- Put on some relaxing music or something which will add to the relaxing mood you are trying to create.
- Lay your child on their back or front; it is not important which to start with.
- Undress your child; though leave their nappy on until you have worked your way up their legs to their bottom.
- Start at their feet by using gentle strokes to massage their soles and toes. Be aware that some babies have ticklish feet and do not find foot massage pleasant.
- Use firm, continuous strokes with the whole of your hand if you can. The palm of your hand or just your fingers is fine too.
- Work your way up their legs, using both your hands to make long stroking actions, like how you would pat a cat. As you lift one hand, place the other one at the top of their leg, working your way down to their toes.
- Massage their tummy in a gentle, clockwise direction. Bicycle their legs and gently bring their knees up to their chest and back down again.
- Stroke your child’s arms and hands with long continuous strokes.
- You can also massage your child’s face, using the pads of your fingers to go in circular directions around their eyes and mouth.
- Turn your child onto the other side and repeat the massage steps.
Taking time off work to have your baby is one of the most important things you will ever do. Unfortunately for most of us, there comes a point where it’s time to go back to the office. Modern flexible working arrangements are making that easier than ever for parents, but babies aren’t always positively affected by the change.
Going back to work means having to transition to bottle feeding, finding childcare and negotiating new arrangements with your boss. Those things can all seem daunting, but if we break it down into a few individual tasks, it gets much easier to handle the transition. Fortunately, there are many online resources such as our baby feeding guide which covers breast, formula and mixed feeding practices.
The motherhood penalty
Stories that appear in news articles show that women suffer a ‘motherhood penalty’ due to taking time off work to have children. Often, they come back to a role that’s changed drastically or no longer there, forcing them out of the workforce. This issue can be corrected if businesses are open to flexible working arrangements.
Currently, workforce participation rates for women are 59.5 per cent in Australia, while male workforce participation rates stand at 71 per cent. There’s often a perception that mothers are not valuable employees since they tend to be the primary caregiver when their children are sick.
But that’s changing thanks to flexible working arrangements. The ability to work remotely, or work from home some of the time, is allowing more parents to balance their family’s needs with their work. Flexible working arrangements aren’t just good news for parents either – they come with serious benefits for businesses:
- Staff turnover is reduced, meaning your business spends less time recruiting and training new employees to replace female employees who resigned
- Employees feel valued and are likely to work harder and be more loyal to the company
- Customer satisfaction is improved because employees are happy, affecting how they interact with clients
- Increased work/life balance leading to healthier staff who take less sick days, and mums can take time off without worrying the boss will be watching
- Access to the best talent in the market
- Reduced costs in hiring office space
- Less chance of employees chucking ‘sickies’ because they feel overworked
- High staff motivation
Make informed decisions about your choice of childcare
The next major hurdle to tackle is childcare. Many new parents receive help from grandparents raising grandchildren and extended family to look after their baby, but many others need to rely on childcare. Choosing the right childcare provider is a serious task. There are lots of options available, but not all childcare is equal, and it’s up to you to find space in a centre that suits your schedule and your baby’s development:
- When choosing childcare centres you need to do your research and ask other parents about their choices. Speak with your partner about what you both see as important for you and your child.
- Be positive about the benefits of childcare. No matter what the reasons, feeling negative about childcare will just make the process a chore.
- Follow your gut feelings if you have them. Many parents just get a “sense” of what’s right from doing a childcare tour. Look at the interaction between the carer and the children and if the children seem well cared for. Gauge how welcome you feel and speak with the director and the carers.
- If your child is old enough, ask them what they’d like. Talk with them about childcare, read books together and answer their questions honestly. Be mindful of your own emotions if you’re feeling anxious. Children are masters of picking up on their parent’s feelings.
- Include Government based sources of information in your research. These need to be non-biased and evidence-based. Check here as well as here for more information.
How to transition to bottle feeding as you return to work
Finally, you need to prepare your baby for your return to work by transitioning to bottle feeding. Making sure your baby is used to bottle feeding before you go back to work is critical. Some babies take longer than others to accept a bottle, especially if they’ve been happily breastfeeding. Allow plenty of time and patience.
Expect some hesitation as your baby adjusts to someone else feeding them. Plan some time with your baby’s caregiver to discuss how you’d like your baby to be fed and what they prefer. Feeding times and positions can all vary between individual babies. Have a couple of practice sessions so they can get used to each other.
Ask the caregiver to try and stick with your baby’s usual feeding times. Routines need to be flexible, but there are real benefits for babies in having a semi-structured routine when it comes to feeding and sleeping patterns.
If you’re doing a combination of breast and bottle feeding, don’t feel you need to stop. You may want to think about expressing your breast milk at work and storing it for bottle feeds. Check here for information on safe storage and feeding of Expressed Breast Milk (EBM). And speak with your manager at work about your break entitlements to express.
Be organised with plenty of bottles, teats, screw caps and formula to cover the number of feeds your baby will need. Consider how you’d like the bottles and feeding equipment rinsed, washed and sterilised when your baby’s at daycare.
Get an insulated feeding bag or esky to keep your baby’s bottles cold. This is especially important if you’ll be transporting EBM or pre-made formula (not advisable).
Work out a labelling system for your baby’s bottles. Childcare centres and in-home day-care often cater for more than one child. Make sure your baby’s feeds and bottles are clearly named to avoid mix-ups.
Get your partner involved in the organising and decision making plans. Different perspectives and sharing tasks is a good way to avoid frustrations.
Five Top Tips for bottle feeding and returning to work
1. Remember, your baby needs breast milk or formula until 12 months of age. Don’t offer straight cow’s milk as their main milk drink before they’ve turned one year of age.
2. From around six months your baby can be offered a sipper cup to practise their drinking skills. So pack a cup and some cooled boiled water for fluid in between their milk bottles.
3. Be confident about your choice of carer for your baby. Doing as much research as you can beforehand and supporting a gradual introduction to childcare will help you adjust.
4. Be organised. Avoid the early morning scramble of packing the nappy bag and getting bottles sorted. Don’t underestimate the value of investing time and energy the night before to help the morning go more smoothly.
5. Expect some glitches as you and your baby adjust to your daily changes. Feeding is a large part of a young child’s life and often reflects other things going on in their life.
]]>Bonding, also called emotional connection or attachment, is nature’s way of ensuring a baby’s survival. They need to build a close relationship with the people most likely to ensure they will grow towards independence. Bonding also helps to lay the foundation for a child’s development and wellbeing throughout their childhood. [1]
Bonding also supports babies to grow physically and emotionally. They learn that the world is generally a safe place and that they will be protected from harm if there is a connection between them and their caregivers.
Some parents describe a rush of love the minute their baby is born. And it’s not unusual for women to talk about a connection with their growing baby during pregnancy. It’s also true that many parents don’t feel very much when their baby is first born, other than a sense of relief that the labour and birth are now over.
Bonding is not always instant – it can take time to fall in love with our babies.
There is no perfect window of time when bonding needs to happen. It’s not unusual for parents to feel a sense of anxiety when they don’t feel a strong sense of attachment in the early days and weeks and even feel that they are somehow inadequate or there is something wrong with them. But like many situations in life, it’s not helpful if we try too hard and analyse too much.
Sometimes it’s useful to try to turn down the volume on the thinking part of our brain and turn up the feeling part. We are hardwired to build a close connection with our babies. But for many parents and for all sorts of reasons, this doesn’t happen as quickly as we’d like it to.
Sometimes it’s hard to pinpoint why bonding doesn’t happen as quickly as we’d like. The baby may be particularly unsettled, cry a lot or not respond easily to soothing measures.
Many non-birthing parents struggle to feel as if they’re really contributing to their baby’s care in the very early days, especially when their baby is breastfeeding. A baby’s physical care is generally around changing nappies, getting them ready for for feeds and settling.
The in-between feed times is when non-birthing parents can really make a difference, as well as being supportive to their partner.
Research has shown that mothers tend to be more educational when they play with their babies and children. Whereas, fathers show more of a playfulness and just enjoying the game, whatever it may be.
In the early weeks of life, before babies are old enough to smile and respond too much, it can be particularly hard for fathers to feel their baby is connected to them. But very quickly, at around six weeks of age, babies learn social skills such as smiling, eye contact and engaging. It’s not surprising that this is the time when many fathers say they really start to feel their baby is getting to know them and starts responding to their presence.
Go gently and be kind to yourself. And try not to compare the love you have for your newborn with your older children who you’ve known for much longer.
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
Bonding & attachment | The Royal Women's Hospital (thewomens.org.au)
Bonding and attachment: newborns | Raising Children Network
[1] Bonding and attachment: newborns | Raising Children Network
]]>Sadly, each year, SIDS and fatal sleeping accidents claim the lives of many infants as a result of unsafe sleeping environments. It is essential that parents ensure their young infants and toddlers sleep safely at all times and that the research-based guidelines are followed.
]]>Sadly, each year, SIDS and fatal sleeping accidents claim the lives of many infants as a result of unsafe sleeping environments.
It is essential that parents ensure their young infants and toddlers sleep safely at all times and that the research-based guidelines are followed.
With clear, consistent and evidence-based messages of safe sleep practices, we can reduce the risk of many sleep related deaths and injuries occurring.
Download our safe sleeping recommendations below. Or if you need personalised safe sleeping or settling advice - why not book a phone consultation with one of our sleep consultants.
Colostrum is the first fluid made by the breasts from around 16 weeks of pregnancy. Some women don’t realise their breasts are producing colostrum until they notice dried yellow crusts on their nipples, or their breasts start to leak.
Colostrum looks like thick, clear or yellow serum. It is very high in antibodies and nutrients and provides energy for newborn babies. Although colostrum is not produced in high quantities, it’s extremely high in immune properties and helps to colonise a newborn baby’s gut to protect them against disease and allergies.[1] Colostrum is also easily digested and helps with baby’s first poo.[2]
It can be a good idea for some women to express colostrum during the later stages of pregnancy. Storing colostrum for the baby’s feeds after birth can help to support breastfeeding and avoid having to offer formula.
Other common benefits are that some babies need extra fluids or nutrition after they’re born. Babies who are premature, small for gestational age or who are unwell are more likely to have problems with early breastfeeding.
Most maternity care providers recommend that pregnant women don’t start expressing colostrum until late in their pregnancy – from around 36 weeks. Although many women notice their breasts are producing colostrum from their second trimester, waiting until a few weeks before birth is generally a sound idea.
It’s also important that expressing and storing colostrum does not become a type of ‘project’ during pregnancy. You’ll find there can be a certain element of competitiveness in parenting, often supported by social media. How frequently you express and the amounts of colostrum you obtain are of no relevance to other women. If expressing works for you, it’s likely to support your baby and you’ve got the support of your maternity care provider, go ahead.
Between 12-14% of pregnant women will develop gestation diabetes (GDM), usually occurring between the 24th-28th week of pregnancy. Babies of mothers with GDM can have problems maintaining stable blood sugar levels and need careful feeding management. Having a supply of colostrum available can avoid the need for their baby to be fed on donor or formula milk.
It’s important to be gentle when expressing colostrum. During pregnancy, the breasts and nipples often become very sensitive.
Check this video to help you understand how to express colostrum.
You’ll need to store the colostrum correctly to keep it safe for your baby.
Room temperature |
Fridge |
Freezer |
26 degrees or lower 6-8 hours store in the fridge if possible |
4 degrees or lower 3-5 days store at the back of the fridge |
2 weeks in a freezer compartment in a fridge 3 months in a fridge freezer with a separate door 6-12 months in a deep freeze |
Be guided by your maternity care provider and your baby’s paediatrician about what’s right for you both. There can be reasons why feeding is delayed after birth, especially when a baby’s condition is unstable or they are sick. Let your baby’s carers know you have colostrum stored and you’d like your baby to be offered this as soon as possible.
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
Expressing breast milk (thewomens.org.au)
Expressing colostrum before baby is born | Australian Breastfeeding Association
Expressing the First Milk - Video - Global Health Media Project
Hand expressing | Australian Breastfeeding Association
[1] Expressing colostrum before baby is born | Australian Breastfeeding Association
[2] WSP-529 Hand expressing colostrum during pregnancy V2 changed to 36 wks 20161221.pdf
[3] Pregnancy Birth Baby Org - Antenatal Expression of Colostrum
[4] Antenatal expression of colostrum - reasons for, when and how | Pregnancy Birth and Baby (pregnancybirthbaby.org.au)
]]>Be very flexible in your expectations around your baby’s routine when they’re sick. Even if they’re normally the most predictable of little people, don’t expect them to follow the same patterns as when they’re well.
Remember that your little baby is a unique individual. How they respond and behave when they’re sick may be very different to other babies of the same age. Some babies become more vocal when they’re sick and cry more than they usually do, others become (unusually) quiet and just seem to retreat into themselves.
It’s common for parents to worry that all their good work with settling their baby has gone forever. But the truth is that once they’ve recovered, most babies go back to where they were before they became unwell. Sometimes this takes a little persuasion and a few gentle days (and nights) of reminding. But the beauty for parents in learning settling skills, is that these can be applied no matter what stage their baby may be. Sometimes there needs to be a few adaptations depending on a baby’s age and development, but the principles of settling and soothing remain fairly consistent.
Always follow your ‘gut feeling’ about when to have your baby checked. You know them better than anyone else – it’s always useful to do what feels right.
Even though sleep can be restorative and help support recovery, too much sleep can sometimes be concerning. If your baby is sleeping for long periods of time, not waking for feeds or is difficult to rouse, have them checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
https://raisingchildren.net.au/toddlers/health-daily-care/health-concerns/colds
]]>Food safety is important at all ages and stages of life, but for babies and young children it’s particularly wise for parents to be careful about their food. Babies have immature digestion and immune systems and can become sick very easily if they eat contaminated food. Babies can also take longer to recover than adults do and develop complications if they’ve been unwell.
There is a range of important factors when it comes to food safety and babies.
Breastfeed your baby for as long as possible. Up to two years and beyond is ideal, but if this isn’t possible, aim to breastfeed as much as you can. Exclusively breastfeeding to around six months will help to support your baby’s immune system.
As your baby gets to around six months of age, introduce appropriate solid foods while continuing to breastfeed. If your baby is formula fed, keep offering them formula until they turn one year of age.
Care well for yourself and do what you can to support your own good health. Your milk supply may be affected if you’re sick or rundown.
Listeria is a risk for pregnant women, though breastfeeding women can eat potentially risky foods. This is because the risk of transmitting Listeria to a newborn baby from breastfeeding is extremely low and outweighed by the significant benefits of breastfeeding. If you are ill or taking any medications talk to your health professional. Some medications are contraindicated when breastfeeding and it always beneficial to speak with a pharmacist or doctor first.
If you’re expressing and storing your breast milk, make sure you wash and dry your hands carefully before expressing into a sterile bottle or container. It is important to store and defrost expressed breast milk (EBM) carefully. Check here for specifics.
Always boil water before making up formula. Use tap water, rather than bottled water, to prepare your baby’s bottles.
Always store formula milk in the back of the fridge where the temperature is coldest. Ideally, make up your baby’s bottles just before their feeds. If it’s easier for you, you can store previously boiled water in sterilised bottles in the fridge, before adding the correct amount of formula scoops.
When your baby is around six months of age, they will be ready for solid food as well as breast or formula milk. This is because their iron stores which have built up during pregnancy start to decline and they need extra iron, as well as protein and zinc from solid foods to support their growth and development. Iron rich foods are iron fortified baby cereals, pureed meat and chicken, legumes and tofu.
Although most babies are ready for solids from around six months, this time can vary between individual babies. The advice from health professionals is to not offer solid foods before four months of age. This is because milk is so important that solid foods can fill a baby up to the point where they’re not interested in drinking the amount of milk they need to grow and thrive.
Look for your baby to have:
You may be interested in the practice of baby led weaning, which is becoming a very popular method of supporting babies to have more control over what and how much food they eat. This is covered in detail in our Baby Feeding Guide.
Other fluids which are considered unsafe are goat’s or soy milk, low fat or reduced fat milks, fruit juice or fruit drinks. Speak with a health care practitioner if you feel your baby needs these as a substitute for breast milk or cow’s milk derived formula.
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
Mercury in fish (foodstandards.gov.au)
Storing expressed breastmilk | Australian Breastfeeding Association
]]>It’s easy for people who’ve never had a baby to be dismissive when it comes to a baby’s bowel habits. But for loving parents, like so many other aspects their baby’s well-being, how and when they poo can become a point of endless discussion and even concern.
As a general guide, breastfed babies don’t become constipated. In the early weeks and months after birth, breastfed babies tend to poo a lot. A breastfed baby’s poo is generally soft, a mustard or yellow colour and may contain small, white ‘fat’ curds, which look like sesame seeds. As they get older, breastfed babies may not poo for several days. Even up to a week without pooing can be quite normal for healthy, breastfed babies.
Breastfed babies can pass very smelly wind if they’ve not pooed for a couple of days. When they do poo, it is still soft and looks normal.
Formula fed babies tend to have poos which are firmer and more pasty than breastfed babies. Their poo can range in colour from yellow to khaki green.
Constipated babies pass poo which is dry, hard, pebbly and they will often cry when they’re doing a poo.
Pooing requires two coordinated processes – the pelvic floor needs to relax and there needs to be an increase in intra-abdominal pressure (pushing). It can take babies some time to develop the coordination skills to poo easily. In the meantime, crying, rather than ‘bearing down’ is a way of increasing intra-abdominal pressure. In this situation, they’re not crying because they’re in pain, it’s their body’s unconscious solution to helping them pass a poo. The formal name for crying in this situation is Infant Dyschezia.
Other reasons why some babies struggle to pass their poo is because if they’re lying down, they don’t have gravity to help them poo. Also, because the poo can be so soft it doesn’t create much pressure against in the baby’s rectum.
Every baby and child will have their own, individual pattern of pooing. Some babies poo every day and others every few days. What’s important about pooing is the consistency of the poo, not the frequency. The longer poo sits in the large intestine, the more water is absorbed. Dry, hard, pebbly poo is a sign that it contains little water.
Constipation is very common in infancy; it’s estimated that one in five babies will be constipated at any one time. It can be reassuring to know that constipation is generally not caused by a medical condition and is easily fixed with a few dietary changes.
Offer more frequent feeds. Extra fluid generally helps to soften poos. Although constipation is uncommon in breastfed babies, if you feel your baby is constipated, offer extra breastfeeds.
If your baby is formula feeding, offer some extra cooled, boiled water between their feeds. Small sips of water from a cup can be helpful. Make sure you don’t give more than a few mls; more than this can fill them up so they’re not as hungry for their milk feeds.
If your baby is formula feeding, make sure you’re preparing the formula exactly as the manufacturer recommends. Don’t heap or pack the scoop with formula power and ensure you’re using the correct number of scoops to water ratio. Put water into the bottles first, then add the formula powder.
Try giving your baby a gentle tummy massage, in a clockwise direction. Bicycle their little legs and give them some time to kick freely with their nappy off.
Sometimes it’s necessary for children aged two and older to be prescribed a stool softener, which helps the poo as it’s sitting in the bowel, to absorb more water. These are not recommended in babies aged less than one year.
If your baby is old enough to eat solid foods, e.g., around six months, offer them more vegetables and pureed fruits – especially pear and apple. Rice cereal can cause constipation, so make sure you’re mixing it with plenty of water/expressed breast milk or formula. Our Baby Feeding Guide covers introducing solids to your little one and what to expect during this transition from liquids.
Give them any medicine, such as laxatives or stool softeners unless you’re been advised to by a health professional.
Put anything in their bottom or try to prise out the poo. If you think your baby has hard poo stuck in their bottom, take them to see a doctor.
Make big changes in their feeding management. Too many changes all at once can sometimes overload a baby’s gut. It’s often better to make one change at a time and see if that helps before moving onto something else.
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
Constipation in babies and children | Raising Children Network
]]>Treating your body correctly can have a dramatic effect on your experience of pregnancy, labour and birth. Making time to attend antenatal classes is a great way to learn about the changes to your body and what you need to do to manage your pregnancy. Pelvic floor exercises are a common part of antenatal classes. In just a few minutes a day, pelvic floor exercises can transform the way your body handles pregnancy and prevent you from developing ongoing issues after giving birth.
The pelvic floor is a layer of muscle tissue that stretches from the front of your pubic bone to the lower end of your backbone. These muscles play an important role in several bodily functions, and weak muscles can cause you to leak urine when coughing, sneezing or straining (known as stress incontinence). While this is perfectly normal for lots of women, it’s an issue that can be both frustrating and stressful. Consult your healthcare provider if you’re concerned about pelvic floor health or stress incontinence.
Pelvic floor exercises are just like the exercises you would do for other parts of your body. By straining the muscles slightly you can build up their strength and resistance, making them more effective for things like holding your urine and supporting your bladder, uterus and bowel.
Pelvic floor exercises are simple and non-strenuous, meaning they are perfectly safe to perform at any time. Ideally, women should do pelvic floor exercises before, during and after pregnancy. Even for those who are young and aren’t experiencing side effects like stress incontinence, working out the pelvic floor can help you avoid issues post-pregnancy.
How to Do Pelvic Floor Exercises
Pelvic floor exercises are easy to do. For best results you should incorporate the exercises into your daily routine for the rest of your life. Even if you’re young and not experiencing any problems now, pelvic floor exercises can help you avoid issues after giving birth and later in life.
The exercise itself is simple. A pelvic floor workout can be done while sitting, standing or lying down:
Don’t worry if you can’t squeeze for 8 seconds. Just hold it for as long as you can and focus on doing the exercises regularly. Remember to keep breathing while doing the exercise.
Pelvic floor exercises are a simple and effective way of strengthening your pelvic floor muscles. If you can get into the habit of doing your exercises each day then it will be simple to keep those critical muscles in great condition. But there are a few things you can do to avoid damaging your pelvic floor muscles:
Learn About Pelvic Floor Exercises with Online Antenatal Classes from Nourish Baby!
Pelvic floor exercises are a simple and easy way to look after your pelvic floor and avoid issues like stress incontinence. Especially if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or have just given birth, it’s a good idea to make these simple exercises part of your daily routine. If you would like to find out more, explore Nourish Baby’s selection of online antenatal classes today! Our online antenatal classes provide all the same information you would get from an in-person class, but it’s available online at your convenience. We provide a range of online courses and antenatal bundles designed to support pregnant parents at every stage of the journey. For more information you are welcome to contact us and speak to our team!
References:
The Women's - The Royal Women's Hospital
Hillary Schwantzer, Women's Health Physiotherapist.
]]>Rashes are common in childhood and it can be hard to know what may be the cause. Some children seem particularly prone to skin reactions and rashes, others are a little less reactive. Generally, rashes are nothing to be concerned about and are harmless.
Most of the time, rashes tend to go away as quickly as they appear and don’t need any special treatment. But sometimes rashes are a symptom of illness and a sign that a doctor’s check is necessary.
]]>Rashes are common in childhood and it can be hard to know what may be the cause. Some children seem particularly prone to skin reactions and rashes, others are a little less reactive. Generally, rashes are nothing to be concerned about and are harmless.
Most of the time, rashes tend to go away as quickly as they appear and don’t need any special treatment. But sometimes rashes are a symptom of illness and a sign that a doctor’s check is necessary. Basic first aid is covered in our Parenting Guide but if you are unsure, always check with your local GP.
Viral infections, nappy rash, food sensitivities, eczema or other skin conditions are the most common reasons why rashes occur. Some children develop heat rash, also called prickly heat, in the warmer months of the year.
It’s not uncommon for children to develop a ‘teething rash’ around their mouth when their teeth are erupting through their gums. In toddlers, this is generally around the age when they are getting their first and second year molars. Some children also develop a nappy rash when their teeth are erupting, which generally responds well to more frequent nappy changes and barrier cream applied to the skin covered by their nappy.
Rashes can come in different forms. The way a rash looks can give clues about its cause.
Other common rashes are caused by impetigo, erythema nodosum and even fungal infections e.g. ringworm, or mite infections e.g. scabies.
Rash types
Rashes can look different depending where on the body they appear. Often, rashes spread to different parts of the body before they disappear. Rashes can also last for a couple of hours or up to a few days before the skin returns to normal.
Sometimes children have a rash which is a combination of raised/flat/red/pink areas.
Often, a skin rash appears without any other symptoms. The child seems fine and is not bothered by the presence of a rash. However, some rashes cause itchiness and irritation.
Occasionally, children develop a rash which needs immediate assessment by a doctor. This is called a petechial rash, where vessels underneath their skin break, creating small, red, flat spots which look as if someone has used a red pen to draw little dots on their skin. Another type of rash to watch for is purpura, which looks similar to a petechial rash, but covers more of the skin. A purpural rash is blue or purple and due to bleeding under the skin.
Most normal rashes blanche – become white for 1-2 seconds when they’re pressed. But petechial rashes or purpura don’t blanche when they’re pressed – they stay red or purple. They are also flat and aren’t raised. These types of rashes mean the child may have a meningococcal infection and needs to see a doctor immediately.
Measles is another type of viral illness which causes a distinctive type of rash. A rash caused by measles generally has a splotchy, red appearance, starting on the face. Children who have measles can quickly become very sick, so it’s important to have them checked by a doctor as soon as possible.
If you are worried about your child, have them checked by a doctor. Even though most rashes settle quickly without any treatment, it’s important that any serious illnesses are ruled out.
Toddlers will often have an elevated temperature, ‘fever’, when they have a viral infection. Sometimes the fever starts before a rash can be seen and as the rash comes out, the fever settles. This often happens when a child has Roseola.
In most cases, rashes get better on their own without any special treatment. It’s not always possible to work out what has caused a particular rash, or the specific virus which is responsible. Most often, as the child improves, so does their rash.
Antibiotics don’t work on viruses or viral caused rashes, they are only effective in treating bacterial infections, so there is no benefit in having antibiotics prescribed. Though sometimes children can get bacterial skin infections and inflammation of the skin. These conditions generally respond well to antibiotics which stop the bacteria from multiplying.
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
Kids Health Information : Meningococcal infection (rch.org.au)
Kids Health Information : Rashes (rch.org.au)
Measles | Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care
]]>Anyone employed in Australia is protected by the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 and Fair Work Act 2009. These two pieces of legislation both say that your employer cannot discriminate against you due to pregnancy. These laws mean you can’t be sacked, demoted or passed over for a promotion, and they also mean you’re entitled to your normal leave requirements.
Your exact working arrangements, parental leave, sick leave and compassionate leave entitlements depend on your individual employment agreement and how long you have been in the role. Leave entitlements differ between industries and awards, but most full-time employees in Australia are allowed some amount of sick leave each year.
If you’re an employee in Australia and you are entitled to a normal amount of sick leave, you will typically be allowed to use your sick leave to attend antenatal appointments. Antenatal classes fall under this umbrella, so it’s likely that you’ll be able to use sick leave to attend an in-person antenatal class at your local hospital or birthing centre.
Not all awards, agreements or workplace policies allow expectant mothers to use sick leave to attend antenatal appointments. You’ll need to speak to your manager or human resources department to find out more about your employment conditions. Just keep in mind that you are protected by Australia’s anti-discrimination laws and that your leave entitlements can’t be reduced due to being pregnant. If you’ve used all your sick days and still need to take time off for an illness or antenatal class, you may need to use unpaid leave instead.
Unfortunately, partners usually aren’t able to use sick leave entitlements to attend antenatal appointments and classes. These appointments are a major milestone in your baby’s development and partners are always encouraged to attend whenever possible. In most cases, your partner will need book time off for appointments as annual or unpaid leave. Ask your partner to speak to their employer about their parental leave entitlements to find out how to best handle any absences for antenatal classes.
Attending in-person antenatal classes can be challenging. They book up quickly and it can be hard to coordinate a day where you and your partner can both take time off to attend.
If you’d like to attend antenatal classes but are struggling to find the time, then online antenatal classes are the solution. Delivered through the internet, online classes contain all the expert information and tips you’d get from your local hospital, but they can be accessed at the times that suit you best. Whether you have a busy schedule or just want to access the information at your own pace, online antenatal classes are the best way to prepare for your baby without disrupting your life. Best of all, the information is available whenever you need it, so you can review the material as many times as you like throughout your pregnancy journey.
With so many things to think about during pregnancy, finding time to attend antenatal classes isn’t always easy. Online antenatal classes offer a fantastic option that allows you to access the information and support you need throughout your pregnancy, all delivered in a convenient online format. The online classes offered by Nourish Baby are designed and presented by experienced parental health professionals. Our antenatal bundles and classes are Australia’s only accredited online courses, and they provide a wealth of information about pregnancy, labour, birth and early childhood. You can contact us to find out more about our programs, or explore our collection of courses online at any time!mel
]]>One of life’s joys is to introduce a new baby into our family and social networks. Most people love to share the excitement of meeting the newest little person and want to be part of the experience. It can help though to have some ideas and a plan on how to manage visitors in a kind and sensitive way.
Remember, most adults are reasonable and if needed, respond to gentle cues around the best time to visit and to leave.
Some new parents find the idea of visitors a welcome distraction from their day. Others find the concept more than a little overwhelming. Wherever you sit on the spectrum of enjoying the company of others, you can be forgiven for becoming a little less social after having your baby.
Being clear with each other about how you’re going to manage visitors can help to avoid feeling overwhelmed later. It’s reasonable for your partner to have any of ‘the hard conversations’ with others around letting you and your baby having time first to get to know each other.
Physical and emotional recovery after birth can take some weeks and if you’ve had a long and difficult labour and birth, perhaps even longer. There is no perfect time when visitors may be welcome.
Don’t assume your partner has the same expectations about visitors as you do. If they’re used to a very social family and you’re more reserved, what you each consider to be normal may be very different.
If you’re anxious about being overwhelmed with visitors when your baby is born, consider not telling people your exact due date. Another option is to share a date which is later than your exact due date.
Check the maternity hospitals visiting times during your pregnancy and let your friends and family know these before you have your baby. If you’d prefer people didn’t come to visit, tell them during your pregnancy.
Have some honest chats about what you’d like to happen in terms of visiting. There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach to visitors in the newborn period. This is one of the times in your life when you’re allowed to be a little self-centred. Be clear and specific so there’s no confusion about what you mean.
If you’d prefer no visitors in hospital, let people know. And ask the staff to put a sign on your door and advise people that you’re resting. Tell your friends and family that you’re really excited about them meeting the new baby and you or your partner will be in contact as soon as possible to arrange a day and time for visits.
Speak openly with your partner about the possibility of them needing to be the gatekeeper for visitors. Ask that they check with you first to see you’re not sleeping or just want some time as a family. It’s also fine to be selective about who you want to visit you. Calm, quick visits to say hello are easier to manage than visits which last hours.
Send out group texts and let people know it may be a while before you get back to them because you’re a little preoccupied. If you’ve got the time and the inclination, send updates and photos on how you and your baby are going.
It may be easier for you to have group visits, rather than a constant stream of people. Ask your friends and family if they can coordinate a day and time which suits you all.
If you’re more of a people pleaser, you could find it difficult to put yourself first. But becoming a parent requires a whole range of new skill building - prioritising your own needs and your baby’s is one of many.
Saying no to people may be difficult the first few times you do it. But because you need to make sure you and your baby come first; you’ll be motivated to make the best decisions.
It can take up to six weeks or longer to recover from labour and birth. It’s important in this time to rest and focus on getting to know your baby. Building confidence and skills with breastfeeding, changing, settling and getting to know your baby’s cues will take many hours. This is best done in the comfort of your own home and where you can fully relax.
Let people come to you if that’s more manageable. However, if you know people who are likely to overstay their welcome, it may be better for you to go to them. Plan for timed visits at your convenience. When making plans, let your hosts know how long you’re likely to be able to stay.
It’s entirely reasonable to ask that only healthy people visit. You will need to be the advocate for your baby and ensure their health is not compromised. Your baby’s immune system is still developing and they will be vulnerable until they are more mature.
You may plan to pretty much isolate yourself after your baby is born, but could find you’re keen to catch up with people. Alternately, you may think you’ll be up to seeing people and for all sorts of reasons, prefer to just hunker down with your baby.
The early days and weeks after having a baby are precious. Be patient and kind to yourself as you find your way through the new baby haze.
Don’t feel you need to cater to visitors by preparing food and drinks. Wait until they offer and say yes to any reasonable offers of support. If people ask you how they can help, make some suggestions. Folding washing, meal preparation, caring for older children, the list is endless.
Prioritise yourself and your baby each day. There will be times when you don’t want to see anyone and just sit in your pyjamas eating cereal on the couch. That’s fine!
Be kind to yourself and others when you quarantine days and even weeks to just settle in and learn what’s involved in managing your own little family. After birth, the special, early window of time passes by so quickly so make the most of it.
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
About Nourish Baby | Online Antenatal Classes & Parenting Courses
Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care
Out-of-town guests & visitors after birth - COPE
Setting the rules for visitors when you have a newborn baby - ABC Everyday
]]>Antenatal classes (often called Childbirth Education, birthing or prenatal classes) are all about helping expectant parents experience a positive pregnancy, labour and birth. That usually means in-person or online antenatal classes are centred around information and practical exercises that help explain:
The exact contents of a class depends on the provider. In most cases, antenatal classes are held by the hospital or clinic where you’ll be giving birth, but you can also attend classes and find information from other sources if that suits your needs better. It’s worth noting that in-person antenatal classes book up quickly, so you may want to attend courses that are delivered elsewhere to better suit your schedule.
While some antenatal classes are tailored towards early pregnancy, most courses at birthing clinics don’t begin until you are 30-32 weeks pregnant. It’s often helpful to seek other sources of information earlier on, around week 14-16 of your pregnancy, so you can prepare for what comes next.
It’s likely you will be quite busy during the last few months of pregnancy, but attending 30-week antenatal classes makes sure the important information is fresh in your mind. Classes are open to all expectant parents, ensuring you both know what happens next and can support each other through the journey. You don’t need to be a first time parent to attend an antenatal class. If you have had a baby previously, you may still find antenatal classes helpful, especially if it has been a few years and you would like to update and refresh your knowledge.
While you may be able to find antenatal classes that cover the earlier stages of your pregnancy, most clinics focus on what happens during the final trimester, labour and early childhood. Online antenatal classes are a great source of further information about pregnancy. The right course can provide a guide to a healthy pregnancy that ensures you have up-to-date information spanning from early pregnancy through to labour and birth.
The hospital or clinic where you will be giving birth are likely to provide antenatal classes at the 30-32 week mark of your pregnancy. Speak to your doctor or midwife about the classes they offer to find out more details about when to attend and how to book. Like we said above, classes often fill up quickly, so make sure to book ahead to avoid missing out.
If you can’t attend a class, or want additional information that you can view in your own time, you can also source online antenatal classes. The right online classes provide the same accredited information and instruction, but they are available at the times and places that suit you. This can be especially helpful if you decide you would like to revisit the class in the lead up to labour, or if you would like to learn about aspects of pregnancy that are typically left out of in-person classes.
It’s not always practical to attend in-person antenatal classes. They book up quickly and are only available at fixed times that may not suit your schedule. Online courses provide a wealth of information to help guide you through the exciting experience of pregnancy and parenting. Nourish Baby’s online antenatal classes deliver quality education to support you throughout your pregnancy and parenting journey. Our flexible courses offer information, advice and education that extends from early pregnancy to breastfeeding, sleep support and early childhood, ensuring you have the guidance you need.
Nourish Baby is the only online antenatal class provider accredited by the Childbirth and Parenting Educators of Australia (CAPEA) and the Australian Council of Healthcare Standards (ACHS). For any questions about our antenatal classes and bundles, please feel free to contact us at any time.
]]>What’s important is that you both feel comfortable having sex and being open to making some position changes as your tummy gets bigger.
During pregnancy, there is increased blood flow to the genitals, including the vulva, clitoris, vagina and entire pelvic region. Depending on the individual woman, this surge in blood flow can cause increased feelings of pleasure, or irritation. For male sexual partners, the increased vaginal fullness can be felt during penetrative sex.
If your maternity care provider has advised you not to have sex, there will be a reason for this. Potential reasons include:
During the first trimester, pregnancy hormones often cause a peak in nausea and tiredness. Many women don’t feel particularly interested or motivated to have sex. As they settle into the second trimester, there is a generally a lifting of energy and many women feel a renewed sense of interest in getting up close and personal with their partner again.
The second trimester is often a time when sex is back on the agenda for many women and their partners. In the third trimester, a large belly can make the logistics of sex more challenging. This means expectant couples need to be open to new positions.
Pregnancy hormones cause tissues to relax and loosen in preparation for labour and childbirth. Many women have a sense of having a ‘looser’ vagina which is softer and less tight than when they are not pregnant. Increased vaginal secretions mean that lubrication is increased and women may find they become more easily aroused and orgasm more readily because of these changes.
Some women experience orgasms for the first time when they are pregnant, because of increased blood flow and hormonal influences. It’s also not unusual for pregnant women to orgasm when they are dreaming. There is no harm caused to either a pregnant mother or her baby when she has ‘sleep orgasms’.
On the flip side, some women experience heightened sensitivity because of a tightening of their vaginal muscles. This can make penetrative sex very uncomfortable. Often, spending more time during foreplay or using lubrication (if it's needed) can make sex more pleasurable.
Many women notice their breasts become uncomfortably painful and sensitive during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. This makes any touching or massage, even the gentlest of strokes, to be very uncomfortable. Speak openly with your partner about what works for you. There are many ways to maintain intimacy and closeness without having to tolerate being uncomfortable.
Many women experience ‘spotting’ after sex, or their vaginal mucous is streaked with blood. In the absence of other concerning symptoms, such as contractions or losing fluid, it is generally reasonable to assume slight spotting is due to cervical sensitivity. However, any bleeding during pregnancy needs to be checked by a doctor or maternity care provider.
There may be benefits in avoiding deep, penetrative sex if you have cervical discomfort, or you find you regularly spot after sex. This could help to reduce any anxiety you’re feeling about bleeding after sex.
As your tummy expands, it will be more comfortable to avoid positions where your partner’s weight is pressing down on you. The ‘missionary’ position can be one of the more uncomfortable ways to have sex, especially during the third trimester.
To be open to:
Many women and their partners feel that regular, satisfying sex helps to support their stable mental health. As long as you are not experiencing any pregnancy complications, or have been advised not to have sex, there is no reason why you need to stop.
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
Sex during pregnancy | Pregnancy Birth and Baby (pregnancybirthbaby.org.au)
Sex During Pregnancy: A Guide to Safe Sex Positions and 10 FAQs (healthline.com)
Sex in pregnancy: information for men | Raising Children Network
Sexual activity | Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care
]]>Most parents have heard of a baby’s ‘soft spot’ or by its more formal name, the fontanelle. Babies actually have four fontanelles, though it’s the two larger ones – the anterior and posterior fontanelles which are more commonly noticed.
Newborn babies have five major bones in their head (skull) which are separated by a special type of connective tissue, known as sutures. These sutures work like seams, helping the baby’s head to move and mould during birth. They also allow for rapid brain growth and development during early childhood.
The bones in a baby’s skull are soft and ‘unfused’ in the early months, so there are gaps between the individual bones. These gaps are made of tough connective tissue, called the fontanelles.
Touch the middle, top part of your baby’s head, ½ way between their ears. You will feel a soft spot between their bones – this is the fontanelle. The anterior fontanelle is a diamond shape and measures between 0.6 – 3 cms, though on average, most babies have an anterior fontanelle which measures around 2 cms.
You may also feel a smaller soft spot just below the crown of their head. This is the posterior fontanelle. Generally, it is smaller than the anterior one, on average around 0.5 cms.
The fontanelle will feel warm, soft and flat. You may feel a pulse through your fingers when you touch your baby’s fontanelle – this is normal and nothing to worry about.
Some babies have more obvious fontanelles than others. When a baby has little or fair hair, it’s easier to see their fontanelle than in babies with dark hair.
The word fontanelle comes from a French word, Fontaine, meaning spring. It’s understood that this is because of the common location of a spring in a dent in the earth or a rock.
Fontanelles are a type of tough membrane which fill the space between the bones of the baby’s skull.
Fontanelles serve an important purpose because they allow for stretching and changes in the shape of a baby’s skull during birth. As the baby’s brain physically grows and develops, it’s important that it is not restricted. The fontanelles and sutures between the bones in the skull allow the baby’s head to grow.
No, you cannot harm your baby by touching their fontanelle. As long as you are gentle, it’s fine to stroke their head, wash their hair and even pat their head. You may notice your baby’s fontanelle pulsating (going up and down), as if it is echoing their heartbeat.
The membrane which covers the fontanelles is very tough and difficult to penetrate. Although they are often called the soft-spots, the fontanelles are designed by nature to be strong and protective.
When your baby is examined by health care professionals, you’ll notice they will touch your baby’s fontanelles. In fact, checking the fontanelle is so common, it’s often referred to as “The paediatrician’s handshake”.
They will be checking to see if the fontanelles are still open, their size and if they feel flat, bulging or depressed. Sometimes health conditions can be picked up by the appearance and feel of a baby’s fontanelles. If you’re unsure, ask what they’re looking for.
Your baby’s health care practitioner will also measure your baby’s head circumference to assess their head growth. In combination, checking their head, fontanelles and head circumference can provide a lot of information about a baby’s growth and development.
Every baby is unique and there is variation in the ages at which the fontanelles close.
However, there is an average age when closure of the fontanelles is expected:
There are few conditions which can cause early closure of the fontanelle. More commonly:
There are a few reasons why a baby’s fontanelle may not close, or be slow to close. Sometimes delayed closure is due to a health condition, more commonly:
Sometimes a baby’s fontanelle is lower than the surrounding scalp - this means it is sunken or depressed. If the baby is otherwise well and healthy and has no problems with their development, this can be a variation of normal. If, however, the baby is sick and/or been vomiting, it can be a symptom of dehydration.
A bulging fontanelle can be a sign of meningitis or encephalitis. Both of these are very rare conditions and there are generally other symptoms which are also present.
See a doctor and have your baby checked if you are worried. If you feel your baby could be dehydrated, keep a record of their feeds and number of wet and dirty nappies. At least six or more wet nappies in a 24-hour period is one sign of adequate hydration.
Have your baby seen immediately by a doctor if their fontanelle is bulging or sunken.
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
About the fontanelle | Pregnancy Birth and Baby (pregnancybirthbaby.org.au)
Anatomy, Head and Neck, Fontanelles - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf (nih.gov)
Children's health fact sheets | Children’s Health Queensland
]]>Doulas are generally women who’ve had children themselves and want to offer support to other women. They are often passionate about what they do.
Most countries have their own training programs to become a trained and registered doula. In Australia there are a few training facilities which provide education on what’s involved in becoming a doula.
Doulas are not midwives or registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA), the regulatory agency which manages the registration and renewal process on behalf of health practitioner boards.
Speak with your maternity care provider to see if they have any contacts. Otherwise you can do your own research, starting with a directory of doulas in Australia. There are a number of doula training organisations in Australia, such as the Australian Doula College and Doula Network Australia.
Doulas are generally quite clear about what they can and can’t do. This is important in order to keep the boundaries clear between their role and what is best managed by maternity care providers.
What’s as important as the doula herself, is the relationship between the expectant parents and their doula. This needs to be built on trust and confidence and cannot be rushed. Ideally, the expectant mother and her partner meet with their doula early in pregnancy and build a connection.
According to The World Health Organisation (WHO) a review of the research into the benefits of labour companionship, found that a sense of trust and companionship are important characteristics.
As well as the following, you will have your own ideas.
Initial introductions will be best done during your pregnancy. This will give everyone the opportunity to talk about your labour and birthing goals and how they may support you.
It’s important that your doula doesn’t take on the role of a healthcare professional, but rather, considers themselves as part of your birthing team.
One of the ways a doula could support you is to help you prepare for your labour and birth. The specifics of their support will then depend on what you want.
During your pregnancy, you’ll have lots of opportunity to talk about the different ways your doula can support you. It’s important to have a clear plan as you approach your baby’s due date. Though bear in mind, it’s important to be flexible and allow for the unexpected.
Labour and birth do not come with any guarantees. Although most women plan for a natural vaginal birth with minimal or no intervention, sometimes this is unavoidable.
Some doulas offer support through pregnancy and birth and then stop their engagement. Others extend their support until a few weeks after the baby is born. But most doulas will:
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
About Nourish Baby | Online Antenatal Classes & Parenting Courses – nourishbaby.com.au
What does a birth doula do? | Pregnancy Birth and Baby (pregnancybirthbaby.org.au)
]]>Paced bottle feeding appears to have been popular in the United States for some time, though in Australia, it’s just starting to build popularity. In terms of evidence around its benefits, there is still some way to go before it’s been proven with certainty, that paced feeding is beneficial.
If you do choose to pace feed your baby, it would be worthwhile checking with your baby’s healthcare professional first, just to make sure there’s no potential reasons why it may not be right for your baby.
Essentially paced bottle feeding aims to mimic the flow of milk from the breast. By doing this, the baby is exposed to a more ‘natural’ method of feeding, is more relaxed and in control of their feeds. With time and practice, the baby learns to ‘pace’ their feed, and take their own sucking breaks and pauses before returning to sucking.
Paced bottle feeding is all about the baby being in control of their feeds, not the person feeding them.
Paced feeding is also centred on following the baby’s cues or signals that they are hungry. Rather than being ‘fed’ they get to ‘feed’ and it is the baby’s responses which are important.
Healthy, hungry babies give cues that they want and need to feed. And although every baby is an individual, most babies display typical hunger behaviours:
For more information on bottle feeding, speak with your Child Health Nurse, health practitioner or learn more in our Baby Feeding Guide.
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
https://www.breastfeeding.asn.au
https://www.health.state.mn.us/docs/people/wic/localagency/wedupdate/moyr/2017/topic/1115feeding.pdf
Paced Bottle Feeding - Patient Information Brochures - Mater Group
]]>A birth plan is a written record of how you’d like to be supported in labour and when you’re having your baby. How much detail you go into is entirely your choice – some expectant parents prefer to have a very comprehensive plan covering every possibility, others just bullet point what’s really important to them.
Essentially birth plans are a form of communication between a mother, partner and maternity care provider.
There are no right or wrong ways to write up a birth plan; it also pays not to compare your birth plan with someone else's.
A birth plan is useful because it relies on some insights into labouring, birth and the early moments after a baby is born. It’s helpful for most expectant parents to have some understanding of what’s involved and even if a birth plan isn’t finalised, looking into choices is always worthwhile.
Some women prefer to have a greater sense of control than others over their labour and baby’s birth. Often, a woman and her partner write up the birth plan together so they can include what’s mutually important.
You could use a template as a prompt for what to include. Alternately, you could develop your own birth plan which is unique to you. Either way, your birth plan will need to include:
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
Developing a birth plan - Better Health Channel
https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/making-a-birth-plan
Preparing for labour | The Royal Women's Hospital (thewomens.org.au)
]]>Women in Australia give birth either in a public maternity hospital, private maternity hospital, a birthing centre or have a home birth. Women can also change their minds about what’s right for them after having their first child and choose to go to a different maternity hospital with subsequent babies.
Ultimately, you need to decide what is right for you, your partner and your baby. It’s important to consider your obstetric history when planning where to give birth. If you are having a ‘high risk’ pregnancy, it’s likely you’ll be referred by your maternity care provider to a larger maternity hospital.
Most women feel that pregnancy and birth are special times in their life. Birth plans can be a good way to have a say and sense of control over labour and birth.
Many women choose to see their GP for regular antenatal checks. As the expected due date gets closer, their antenatal care is then transferred to the maternity hospital where the baby will be born. Other women go to a private obstetrician who will be present when the baby is born. Most obstetricians have locum arrangements, or work in group practices to cover their absences.
If you choose to have a private obstetrician and birth your baby in a private hospital, you’ll need private health insurance. Medicare only covers some of the cost of a private obstetrician, though not the hospital stay. It’s common to have a fee gap between the obstetrician’s fee for antenatal services and delivery and the Medicare rebate.
Another option during your pregnancy is to go to an antenatal clinic and see a midwife who is employed by the maternity hospital. Many hospitals use a ‘model of care’, conducted by the midwives. Midwives and obstetricians are available for antenatal care and support. When you go into labour, you’ll be supported by a midwife working in the labour ward. Medicare covers this option.
Birth centres also use a model of midwifery care where a team of midwives share the care of a number of women. Once a mother goes into labour, one of the midwives you’ve met antenatally will offer support when you are in labour and when you are birthing your baby. Medicare also covers this option.
Some midwives work independently in private midwifery group practices. Depending on their own arrangements, their services may be rebatable under Medicare and private health insurers.
Most cities and regional centres in Australia have maternity hospitals. Generally, these are attached to public hospitals. Some only offer public care, though many offer a combination of both public and private. If your pregnancy is complicated, or there are likely to be problems with the baby e.g., born prematurely, you’ll be advised to go to a larger maternity hospital.
Birth centres are an option for women having a low-risk pregnancy. Larger maternity hospitals often have a birth centre attached to the labour ward. In birth centres, a group of midwives provide care; however, obstetricians are also available if they’re needed.
Many birth centres also offer water birth facilities. Hospitals develop their own protocols around safe management of water births, though not all places provide this option. Check what’s available for you.
Home birth can be another alternative for healthy women having a low-risk pregnancy. Having their baby at home means that some women feel more relaxed and in control. It’s important to research all your options and make your own informed choice if you’re considering having a home birth.
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
Obstetricians: guide for expectant parents | Raising Children Network
Pregnancy care & birth: public hospitals | Raising Children Network
Who's covered by Medicare - Medicare services for conceiving, pregnancy and birth - Services Australia Australia's mothers and babies, Maternal age - Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (aihw.gov.au)]]>The current recommendations are clear about pregnant and breastfeeding mothers to avoid using any alcohol or (unprescribed) drugs.
Alcohol, cigarettes and drugs such as marijuana, opiates, benzodiazepines and some antidepressant medications, cocaine, heroin and amphetamines are all known to have harmful effects on a developing baby. Any drink which contains alcohol poses a risk of harm to the developing baby, either during pregnancy or when they are breastfeeding. Beer, wine and spirits are all equally risky.
Even some prescription medications can be dangerous when taken during pregnancy. In the first trimester when the baby’s organs are forming, alcohol and some drugs can be Teratogenic e.g. cause birth defects.
Risk level changes depending on the level of alcohol or drugs being used. Some mothers already have pregnancy complications such as hypertension (increased blood pressure) or gestational diabetes. These conditions also change the way her body responds to alcohol and/or drugs.
Addiction is a complex condition and like most complicated situations, there is no one simple solution. In many cases, addiction is a symptom of bigger issues going on in someone’s life. Their use of alcohol or drugs can be a way to cope with their emotional pain or trauma.
Finding the cause for addiction and doing something about it can take an enormous amount of motivation and energy. Some women claim that being pregnant and having their baby ‘saved’ them.
Prioritising their baby’s needs gave them the drive they needed to seek help.
Some drugs, including opioids, can cause the baby to experience withdrawal symptoms when they are born. This condition is called Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS). Caring for these babies is a complex process because they are at greater risk of having seizures and breathing problems.
Depending on the severity of their withdrawals, babies may need morphine to support their body’s reaction to a sudden withdrawal from alcohol and/or drugs. If substances have been taken regularly, especially in the third trimester, the baby is more likely to experience withdrawal symptoms after they are born. A special scoring tool – Finnegan Score - measures a baby’s withdrawal symptoms.
Babies with NAS are also prone to breathing and feeding difficulties as well as other, long-term health problems.
Complications of drug and alcohol use during pregnancy are not solely restricted to the early years. Mothers who drink alcohol during pregnancy are at risk of having a baby with FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder). This is a disability which impacts on the baby’s brain and body.
Babies who’ve been exposed to drugs and alcohol are at more risk of problems with their growth, development and learning. This is because of brain changes which happen as a result of being exposed to substances at crucial times in their brain formation.
If alcohol and drug use has been excessive, it can be dangerous to stop suddenly. The general advice is for pregnant mothers to be monitored carefully and for treatment programs to be tailored specifically to their needs.
Detoxification programs are run by specialist drug and alcohol units. Similarly, most large maternity hospitals have access to best practice guidelines for managing a mother’s withdrawals.
As well as the physical management of withdrawals from drug and alcohol use, psychological support is crucial.
Most large maternity hospitals have specialist units which are designed to care for pregnant mothers who use drugs and/or alcohol. The first step in getting help is to talk with your maternity care provider. Know for sure that you aren’t the first to ask for help and you won’t be the last.
Write your concerns on a piece of paper and hand it to your maternity care provider at your next appointment.
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
Better Health - Drugs, medication and birth defects
COPE - Alcohol and Drugs in Pregnancy
Alcohol during pregnancy and breastfeeding | Australian Government Department of Health
Australian Breastfeeding Association |
]]>Regular health checks are recommended for all babies, from birth right up until they start school. Monitoring their growth and checking their development are important ways to make sure children are growing as they need to.
Regular health checks, particularly in the first 12 months, also help with early detection of problems.
]]>Regular health checks, particularly in the first 12 months, also help with early detection of problems.
After your baby is born, you’ll be given a Child Health Record book. Each State and Territory has their own style of book though they generally contain the same information. In NSW it’s commonly called the “Blue Book”, in Western Australia it’s the “Purple Book” . In QLD it’s called a PHR (Personal Health Record) or “Red Book” and in Victoria it's called the "Green Book".
You’ll get to keep this book as a record of your child’s health and development, right from birth to when they go to school.
No matter what colour it is or where you live, your baby’s health record book will include information on a range of topics.
Child health nurses, also called early childhood nurses most commonly do baby health checks. They’re employed by the Government and work in baby health centres/clinics. Some nurses work in community pharmacies. General Practitioners and pediatricians also do baby health checks. What’s important is that the baby’s health checks, weights and measurements are all recorded.
Most health practitioners can also access electronic medical records and with your consent, share important information about your baby’s health.
Your baby’s weight, length (height) and body mass index (BMI) will be checked. Their breathing, skin, responses and reflexes, vision and hearing may also be checked.
You’ll be asked if you have any concerns about your baby. These questions will be about your baby’s feeding, sleep, elimination (wees and poos), behaviour and general development. And importantly, you’ll have a chance to talk about how you’re going as well.
In most baby health record books, there are sections where parents and caregivers can complete ‘Age and Stages’ questionnaire ‘tick’ boxes. Filling these out before health checks helps the nurse or doctor to follow-up on any concerns. The questions will also be an opportunity for you to look for particular activities and milestones according to your baby’s age.
Each baby develops in their own unique way. However, the order they develop is generally the same, e.g., babies learn how to smile, then coo and then ‘talk’.
Health checks are not just about measuring and weighing. They’re an excellent opportunity for parents to ask questions and seek information about any aspect of their baby’s growth and/or development. No question is too simple to ask.
It’s important you feel comfortable to talk with your child health nurse or doctor so they can provide you with the most up to date, evidence-based information to help you care for your baby.
Remember, you are the expert when it comes to knowing your own little person. A healthcare professional’s job is to work in partnership with you.
There are ‘key ages and stages’ recommended for health checks; however not every parent feels they want, or need their child to be checked according to this schedule. Some want the reassurance of having their baby checked more, or less, frequently. You know your baby better than anyone and need to do what is right for you both.
The midwife and/or doctor will check your baby at birth. Before being discharged from hospital, they’ll also be checked again. In the early newborn period, your baby will have a newborn hearing test and routine vaccinations of vitamin K and for Hepatitis.
Your baby will be weighed, their length and head circumference measured. They may also have their hips checked and have a general, overall, head to toe check. Expect your baby to have regained their birth weight by around two weeks after birth.
You may also have a home visit, depending on where you live and how easy it is for you to get to your local child health centre.
A more thorough check is done at this time, with a doctor or paediatrician checking your baby thoroughly. Their 2-month immunisations will also be due. Your baby’s hearing, vision, reflexes, weight, height and head circumference will all be checked.
A weight check and other measurements will be done at 4 months of age and your baby will be due for more vaccinations. The child health nurse/doctor, will ask if your baby is smiling and cooing and showing other signs of social development.
This check will include the usual weight, head circumference and length check as well as checks for hearing, vision and their oral health. Does your baby have any teeth yet? Expect the healthcare professional to give you some guidance on looking after your baby’s teeth and preventing early decay. More vaccinations are due at 6 months.
Your baby is 1 year old! Another opportunity for weight, length and head circumference checks at this appointment. And more vaccinations as your baby is getting closer to completing their primary course of childhood vaccinations.
Health checks become less regular once a baby has turned one. Their growth tends to slow down and there’s more predictability around their behaviour, eating and sleeping.
Your baby will continue to need vaccinations at 18 months and again at 3.5-4 years of age.
Speak with your Child Health Nurse, GP and/or baby’s paediatrician if you’re unsure about anything to do with your baby. And check Nourish Baby if you’re interested in learning more.
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
Immunisation for infants and children | Australian Government Department of Health
Newborn hearing test | Pregnancy Birth and Baby (pregnancybirthbaby.org.au)
]]>We’ve known for some time about the benefits of delayed cord clamping, otherwise known as ‘optimal’ cord clamping. Another, formal name for delayed cord clamping is placental transfusion. This means that instead of clamping and cutting the umbilical cord immediately after a baby is born, there’s a wait of at least one minute for babies born at term and at least 30 seconds for babies born prematurely.
According to the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG), delayed cord clamping “Is the practice where the umbilical cord is not clamped or cut until after pulsations have ceased, or until after the placenta is delivered.” Similarly, The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends delayed umbilical cord clamping - not earlier than one minute after birth for improved maternal and infant health. Premature babies particularly benefit from delayed cord clamping. WHO also advise that delayed cord clamping should be performed during the time a baby is receiving essential newborn care after birth.
Most Australian maternity hospitals have developed their own Clinical Practice Guidelines to reflect current best practice. For example, this recommendation from QLD Health – “Wait at least 1–3 minutes after birth or for cord pulsation to cease and then clamp and cut cord”.
Delayed cord clamping has become routine in most Australian maternity hospitals. However, until recently, premature babies were managed a little differently to full-term babies so they could receive immediate breathing assessment by a paediatrician. New Australian-led research has now identified that there are also benefits for very preterm babies who, given the opportunity, often start breathing by themselves in the first minute after birth.
After delaying cord clamping, all babies, whether they are premature or full-term get extra red and white blood cells and stem cells from the placenta. This means they are supported to achieve healthy oxygen levels, reduce their risk of infection and tissue healing is supported. For premature babies especially, there is also a reduced risk of them needing a blood transfusion and having brain or bowel complications. These benefits translate to long term advantages as well.
Primarily the benefits of delaying clamping and cutting the cord come from the baby gaining extra blood from the placenta which is transfused in the first minute after they’re born. This blood carries oxygen and nutrients which help the baby to transition to independent life.
For babies who are well at birth, the benefits range from:
Current research is finding there are more benefits than disadvantages, however some disadvantages are:
Until recently, the general practice for premature babies was to have their cord cut almost immediately after birth and to be taken to a resuscitation table to be assessed by a paediatrician. Recent research is examining the benefits of keeping the baby attached to the placenta for 60 seconds or longer before clamping and cutting. This is even possible during a caesarean section where the paediatric team goes to the baby and mother, rather than separating them immediately after birth.
It seems that the placenta has a vital role to play in relation to a newborn’s breathing and their resuscitation, if needed, at birth. Some experts view the placenta as the baby’s ‘lungs’, until their own lungs take over the role of independent breathing.
The outcome of recent research and its findings is that there is likely to be changes to the national guidelines to how clinicians manage cord clamping and cutting.
Speak with your maternity care provider and read as much information as possible about the risks and benefits. Check the references below for more, evidence-based information or signup to our Antenatal Course Bundle or Baby Bundle.
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
Labour and birth—cord clamping (Mater Mothers)
]]>Measuring your baby’s weight at regular intervals will help give you reassurance that they are growing as they need to. An increase in weight from birth is a sign that they are feeding well and will help you to recognise if they have an underlying health or development issue.
In a general sense, a baby’s weight can help to identify if there are problems which need to be addressed before they become more complex.
A baby’s weight is only one aspect of their growth. Generally, a baby’s weight is checked along with measurements of their head circumference and length at regular health checks. Frequent health checks are a good opportunity for a healthcare practitioner to determine a baby’s growth and general health.
Every Australian State and Territory has their own schedules for health monitoring. Check your baby’s Personal Health Record book for the ages and stages when their weight and growth need to be measured.
Babies are usually weighed:
Babies who were born prematurely, were small for gestational age, or have ongoing health issues need to have more frequent growth checks.
How a baby is developing and if they are reaching their milestones are other important measurements of growth and maturity. If you’re worried about your baby’s growth, remember there are other useful ways to check on their overall health and well-being.
Plenty of pale, wet nappies each day (at least 6), regular, soft poos and being generally happy and content are all other reassuring signs that milk intake is adequate.
At birth, a baby’s weight is strongly influenced by a mother’s general health and her diet during pregnancy.
Every baby is an individual and will gain weight and grow in their own unique way. Some weeks, babies gain more weight than others. A baby’s nutrition and feeding behaviours can help to understand more about an individual baby’s weight gain.
Expect your healthcare provider to ask you questions about your baby’s feeding history if there are any concerns about their weight gain.
Age |
Average weight gain |
0-3 months |
150-200 grams/week |
3-6 months |
100-150 grams/week |
6-12 months |
70-90 grams/week |
Between birth – 1 year |
Doubles birth weight |
2-5 years |
2 kg/year |
All babies grow at their own unique pace. [3]
Growth charts help to ‘flag’ early problems with a baby’s growth. Poor growth in early childhood can have both short and long-term effects on a child’s general health and development. Poor growth, over time, can affect a child’s body composition, their learning and development as well as their growth potential.
Growth charts, also called percentile charts, help to compare an individual’s baby’s growth with other babies of the same age and gender. The best way to interpret what a growth chart means is to think of your baby as one in a group of 100. Your baby’s weight, head circumference and length will be measured and then compared with another (sample of) 99 babies.
The 50th percentile is an average measurement for all 100 babies and isn’t a ‘pass’ – 50% of babies will be above this line and 50% will be under it.
One-off measurements don’t give a good understanding of a baby’s growth. What’s important is the pattern of a baby’s growth over time.
Babies who are growing and thriving tend to follow the same curve or line. A sudden increase in a growth curve, especially for head circumference, needs checking and investigation. Poor growth can be seen when a baby’s weight and/or their length is tracking downwards on the percentile chart.
The growth charts currently used in Australia for babies aged between 0-24 months are the WHO (World Health Organisation) growth charts which recognise breastfeeding as the biological norm. [4] From the ages of 2-18 years, the CDC (Centre for Disease Control) growth charts are recommended.
It’s always important to follow your ‘gut feeling’ about how your baby is growing and behaving. Sometimes, it’s hard for parents to describe what’s worrying them, but having your baby checked is always the right thing to do.
Take your baby to your GP and/or your Child Health Nurse if they:
Remember – you are the expert when it comes to your own special baby and you know them better than anyone else. Although we cover a lot in our Antenatal Education resources, if you are unsure of anything at all - seek the advice from a professional.
About the Author:
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
Baby weight losses and weight gains | Australian Breastfeeding Association
[1] Child growth learning resource : Child growth in the early years (rch.org.au)
[2] Infant-feeding-guidelines-info-for-health-workers (13).pdf
[3] How your baby gains weight | healthdirect
[4] Child growth learning resource : Growth Charts (rch.org.au)
]]>Just like other times in your life, there may be people you connect with at parent’s group and others you may not.
It can take a couple of tries before finding the right mix of individuals in a new parent’s group. Trust your own judgment about what feels right. It may take a couple of groups to feel comfortable and connect with the other new parents.
Try not to get caught up in comparing you and your own special baby with others. One of the great things about new parent’s group is the reminder that everyone has their own unique experiences. Parent’s groups with a philosophy of inclusiveness and kindness are generally very popular.
Many women and men with grown up children have forged long term friendships with others they met in their new parent’s group. If asked if they could have predicted such close connections after so many years, it’s unlikely they would have.
You’ll know what’s right for you, but as a general guide consider the following:
Many parents go through a period of just wanting to settle in at home when they have a new baby. It’s normal to feel this way, especially if the birth has been difficult and there’s limits on driving for a few weeks.
If you’re keen, investigate ‘on-line’ new parent’s groups, or perhaps just invite a friend over. It’s fine to gradually ease yourself back into socialising.
Bear in mind that a major benefit of joining a new parent’s group is to get out of the house and avoid isolation. Caring for a young baby can be a very lonely process and it’s so important you don’t feel alone.
Although it could take a bit of effort to get organised and pack up yourself and the baby, the return on your investment is likely to be worth it.
Try not to overthink the process. Making the decision and getting to a new parent’s group is impressive, especially in the early weeks after birth. Give yourself some credit for even getting out of the house.
Every new parent is exhausted, that’s just the honest truth. And all babies go through phases of not sleeping and being unsettled. Try not to compare yourself with anyone else. You do you, and just focus on what’s important for you and your baby. Some new parents just want to talk and others to listen.
There’s a few ‘rules’ when it comes to connecting with any parent’s group:
If you have a sense of being judged or criticised, you’re likely to feel hurt. It can be hard to return to situations where we don’t feel included and it’s understandable if you feel you don’t want to go back.
Consider if:
Written for Nourish Baby by Jane Barry. Jane has qualifications in general, paediatric, immunisation, midwifery and child health nursing. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Applied Science (Nursing) and has almost 35 years specialist experience in child health nursing. She is a member of a number of professionally affiliated organisations including AHPRA, The Australasian Medical Writer’s Association and Australian College of Children and Young People’s Nurses.
References: ]]>