# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
For 'low risk' women the incidence of adverse perinatal outcomes (intrapartum stillbirth, early neonatal death, neonatal encephalopathy, meconium aspiration syndrome, and specified birth related injuries including brachial plexus injury) was low (4.3 events per 1000 births).
Midwifery units appear to be safe for the baby and offer benefits for the mother

For planned births in freestanding midwifery units and alongside midwifery there were no significant difference in adverse perinatal outcomes compared with planned birth in an obstetric unit.

Women who planned birth in a midwifery unit (AMU or FMU) had significantly fewer interventions, including substantially fewer intrapartum caesarean sections, and more 'normal births' than women who planned birth in an obstetric unit.
For women having a second or subsequent baby, home births and midwifery unit births appear to be safe for the baby and offer benefits for the mother

For multiparous women, there were no significant differences in adverse perinatal outcomes between planned home births or midwifery unit births and planned births in obstetric units.

For multiparous women, birth in a non-obstetric unit setting significantly and substantially reduced the odds of having an intrapartum caesarean section, instrumental delivery or episiotomy.
For women having a first baby, a planned home birth increases the risk for the baby

For nulliparous women, there were 9.3 adverse perinatal outcome events per 1000 planned home births compared with 5.3 per 1000 births for births planned in obstetric units, and this finding was statistically significant.
For women having a first baby, there is a fairly high probability of transferring to an obstetric unit during labour or immediately after the birth

For nulliparous women, the peri-partum transfer rate was 45% for planned home births, 36% for planned FMU births and 40% for planned AMU births
For women having a second or subsequent baby, the transfer rate is around 10%

For women having a second or subsequent baby, the proportion of women transferred to an obstetric unit during labour or immediately after the birth was 12% for planned home births, 9% for planned FMU births and 13% for planned AMU births.

Further Information

Birthplace key findings

Birthplace Q&A guide to the key findings of the Birthplace cohort study and other studies conducted as part of the Birthplace in England research programme.
Read the cohort study results online in the BMJ:
Perinatal and maternal outcomes by planned place of birth for healthy women with low risk pregnancies: the Birthplace in England national prospective cohort study

BMJ 2011;343:d7400
http://www.bmj.com/content/343/bmj.d7400
The Birthplace in England Research Programme - Presentation
(Note that this presentation is read only.)

News, updates and other information are available on Twitter @BirthplaceStudy.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Birthplace cohort study: key findings

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit (NPEU) is a multidisciplinary research unit based at the University of Oxford. Our work involves running randomised controlled trials, national surveillance programmes and surveys, confidential enquiries, aetiological studies and a disease register. The results of our research sit at the nexus of public and population health sciences, clinical care and health policy development.

# data[].attributes.body
What does the Evidence say?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The safest cot is a clear cot

The safest cot for a baby is a clear cot. That means removing anything that isn't essential. Babies need just two items in their cot:

It's important to remove anything that isn't essential because items such as toys, blankets and bumpers could cover their face and obstruct their breathing.

When preparing your baby's sleep space, remember:

No pillows or duvets

No cot bumpers

No soft toys or comforters

No weighted or bulky bedding

No products designed to keep your baby in one sleeping position, such as wedges or straps

No pods or nests, rolled up towels or anything soft placed on top of the mattress.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Safer sleep overview - The Lullaby Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
An easy guide to practicing safer sleep for your baby and reducing the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS, or cot death).

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Acacia Family Support | Prenatal Depression and Postnatal Depression Support Services | Birmingham

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Acacia Family Support - Prenatal Depression and Postnatal Depression Support Services

# data[].attributes.body
The 'Wool Brain'
How to understand the way parental interactions build a baby's brain and how important the things parents do in early life are.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Bridget Supple demonstrating how a Baby's Brain wires - 'The Wool brain' exercise

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Child genius or creepy? Dad manages to get his 2-month-old baby girl to say 'I love you' after noticing her trying to copy everything he said
Most 2-month-old babies aren't able to do more than gurgle and coo, but an infant in a touching video gone viral is miraculously able to just about say 'I love you.' The adorable YouTube video posted by the baby's mom shows her sitting on her father's lap as he tries coaxing her to say those three magic words. Stephanie Passalacqua reveals in her description of the impressive, if a little bit creepy, video that the baby's dad noticed her trying to mimic all his words. The baby's gaze never leaves her father's face as he tries several times to get her to defy all reason by speaking the words. Finally, after a few labored attempts, the baby manages to come about as close to speech as anyone so young likely ever has.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Watch a dad coax his 2-month-old daughter into saying 'I love you'

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Most 2-month-old babies aren't able to do more than gurgle and coo, but an infant in a touching video gone viral is miraculously able to just about say 'I love you.' The adorable YouTube video posted by the baby's mom shows her sitting on her father's lap as he tries coaxing her to say those three magic words.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Baby Laughing Hysterically at Ripping Paper (Original)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Maternity care is still essential during the coronavirus pandemic and services are still running. If you have any concerns about your pregnancy call your GP, midwife, nearest early pregnancy unit or maternity unit.

It is important to remember that the information in this section is about what could potentially go wrong, but this doesn't mean it definitely will.

We believe in empowering women to understand what is happening within their bodies at this crucial time and to know when they need to ask for extra care.
If you have more questions, you can call our midwives between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday on Tommy's free PregnancyLine.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Is it serious? Pregnancy symptom checker

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Maternity care is still essential during the coronavirus pandemic and services are still running. If you have any concerns about your pregnancy call your GP, midwife, nearest early pregnancy unit or maternity unit. It is important to remember that the information in this section is about what could potentially go wrong, but this doesn't mean it definitely will.

# data[].attributes.headline
Giving birth at home or at a Birth Centre

# data[].attributes.subject
Giving birth at home or at a Birth Centre

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
NHS VIDEOS | Giving birth at home or at the birth centre - Health videos - NHS Choices

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Learn about the alternative options for women who don't want to give birth in hospital.

# data[].attributes.body
A wealth of info for pregnancy & life with a new baby.

# data[].attributes.headline
Positive affirmations for labour & birth

# data[].attributes.subject
Positive affirmations for labour & birth

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Updated in 2022 with important new messaging on sleep safety, this leaflet offers helpful, practical advice to parents on looking after their sleeping baby both during the day and at night.

Caring for Your Baby at Night and When Sleeping covers a range of topics, including getting some rest, night feeding, safe sleeping environments and helping baby to settle. It is endorsed by the Lullaby Trust, the Baby Sleep Info Source (BASIS), the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) and the Institute of Health Visiting (iHV).

Printed copies are available for £15 per pack (1-9 packs) or £11 per pack (10 or more packs). There are 50 leaflets per pack and this price includes P&P within UK. Order using the Baby Friendly Resources order form, which you can download from our Resources page.
Please note: Orders for UK delivery only, and include postage and packaging costs. Orders may take up to 7 working days to process. The Baby Friendly Initiative reserve the right to re-print items at any time. If you are looking to order audit tools or e-learning please use our digital resources order form.

Caring for your Baby at Night and when Sleeping

A Guide for Parents

Download now

Caring For Your Baby at Night and When Sleeping: A guide for health professionals

Our accompanying guide supports health professionals who will be using Caring for Your Baby at Night and When Sleeping with new parents. It looks at the evidence underpinning the recommendations in the leaflet and offers guidance on discussing these issues.
An updated version of the health professional's guide will be made available soon.

Further resources

The Baby Sleep Information Source (Basis) is an informational source for parents who wish to make informed choices about their infant's sleep and night time care, and is the result of a collaboration between the Durham University Parent-Infant Sleep Lab, La Leche League, NCT, and the UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative.

We have also collaborated with The Lullaby Trust, Public Health England, and Basis to create a range of resources for parents and health professionals, with accessible guidance on safer sleep practices. The following are available to download and buy on The Lullaby Trust website.

Safer Sleep for Babies: A Guide for Parents

Safer Sleep for Babies: Saving Babies' Lives - A Guide for Professionals

Safer Sleep for Babies: Quick Reference Card

Public Health Wales have produced a version of the Caring for your baby at night leaflet in Welsh, which is free to download.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Caring for your baby at night leaflet - Baby Friendly Initiative

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This leaflet, endorsed by BASIS, the RCM and The Lullaby Trust, offers practical advice for parents on caring for their sleeping baby.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
What is sepsis?

Sepsis (also known as blood poisoning) is the immune system's overreaction to an infection or injury. Normally our immune system fights infection - but sometimes, for reasons we don't yet understand, it attacks our body's own organs and tissues. If not treated immediately, sepsis can result in organ failure and death. Yet with early diagnosis, it can be treated with antibiotics.

5 people die with sepsis every hour in the UK. By helping us to reach more people with the signs of sepsis, we can work towards ending preventable deaths from this condition. After all, there is power in numbers. Click here to share the signs of sepsis on Twitteror download our Social Media graphic to share.

Symptoms

Sepsis can initially look like flu, gastroenteritis or a chest infection. There is no one sign, and symptoms present differently between adults and children.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
What is sepsis? Sepsis (also known as blood poisoning) is the immune system's overreaction to an infection or injury. Normally our immune system fights infection - but sometimes, for reasons we don't yet understand, it attacks our body's own organs and tissues. If not treated immediately, sepsis can result in organ failure and death.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This website presents research evidence about biologically normal sleep for human babies. We discuss how infant sleep may vary due to cultural behaviours and expectations such as what babies are fed, where they sleep, and how we interpret their needs.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Discover further helpful resources for expectant parents. We have put together a list of reliable resources for expectant parents with questions. View them now.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Togel Hongkong - Togel Singapore - Togel Sidney - Keluaran SDY - Pengeluaran SGP - Data HK Hari Ini

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Togel Hongkong - Togel Singapore - Togel Sidney - Keluaran SDY - Pengeluaran SGP - Data HK Hari Ini

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Togel Hongkong - Togel Singapore - Togel Sidney - Keluaran SDY - Pengeluaran SGP - Data HK Hari Ini

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Togel Hongkong Togel Singapore Togel Sidney merupakan pasaran togel hari ini, dimana memiliki keluaran sdy, pengeluaran sgp dan data hk hari ini terlengkap.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Elective Caesarean Section at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This video is about Elective Caesarean Section FINAL

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Your body after birth | Information and support on life as a parent | NCT

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
After giving birth, it might take time for you and your body to adjust to life with a baby. Read about how to look after yourself.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Transcript of How do I bath my baby?

How do I bath my baby?

Chantelle: My suggestion of how often you should bath your baby is two to three times a week, that's our recommendation. However if you want to bath your baby every day that's absolutely fine if it does establish a routine and you like it and baby likes it.

So to prepare to bath your baby, you need to fill the bath up, just with cold water first and then add the hot water. We recommend about 8-10 centimetres and then to check it's the correct temperature you use your elbow, dip your elbow into the bath water and it should just feel the same as your body temperature.

So to top and tail your baby before we put your baby into the bath we need to strip your baby off down to the nappy and then we wrap your baby in a towel.

Using the water that you've already run for the bath we will clean your baby's face with cotton wool, use a fresh piece of cotton wool for each eye to avoid infection and the same goes for your baby's ears. Make sure that you clean underneath your baby's chin also and then we'll move onto the bottom.

We'll use clean cotton wool, dip it in the water, wipe your baby's bottom, wipe the excess away, make sure that you've cleaned in between the folds, and that your baby's bottom is nice and dry before you put your baby into the bath.

We need to make sure that your baby is secure so you put one hand underneath your baby's shoulders and neck and the other hand supporting your baby's bottom. Once your baby is secure you can put your baby in the bath water, talking to your baby all the time.

"So once bath time is over bring your baby out of the water, be careful because babies can be very very slippery when they're leaving the bath. Make sure you put your baby straight onto the towel and then it's really important that you dry your baby properly, all the nooks and crannies, clean nappy, clean clothes and lots of cuddles."

When you're feeling more confident with baby bathing, then you can put your baby into the main bath but never ever leave a baby alone in the water.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
How do I bath my baby? Chantelle: My suggestion of how often you should bath your baby is two to three times a week, that's our recommendation. However if you want to bath your baby every day that's absolutely fine if it does establish a routine and you like it and baby likes it.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
NHS VIDEOS | How do I change a dirty nappy? - NHS

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Watch this film to learn how to change a dirty nappy

# data[].attributes.body
ease those aches & pains

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
What is prenatal massage?

Prenatal massage is a type that's similar to regular massage - it aims to relax tense muscles, ease sore spots, improve circulation and mobility, and just make you feel good. But prenatal massage is also customized to the needs of pregnant women and their changing bodies, and therapists trained in prenatal massage adjust their techniques accordingly.

Carrying a baby inside you changes your center of gravity and puts a lot of stress on your back, neck, abdominal muscles, and shoulders. Pregnancy also relaxes your ligaments, meaning your pelvic joints are less stable, and it also changes your posture, pulling your pelvis forward. Add to that the extra weight you're carrying and you may end up with an aching lower back.

A trained prenatal massage therapist knows where a pregnant woman's sore and swollen spots are likely to be and may be able to provide some relief. She'll also know which techniques and areas to avoid.

What are the benefits of massage during pregnancy?

Research on the therapeutic benefits of massage for pregnant women is limited, but small studies suggest that prenatal massage may:

Getting a pregnancy massage can also put you in a more relaxed state of mind to help you cope with all the big changes that are going on in your life.

If you decide to get a massage, it's important to tell your massage therapist which areas of your body need attention. Let her know right away if anything - including your position - causes discomfort during the massage.

How can I find a good prenatal massage therapist?

Get recommendations from your hospital, healthcare provider, or friends. If you already have a favorite massage therapist, ask whether she has training in prenatal massage or can recommend a colleague who does.

You can also visit the American Massage Therapy Association and use their online referral system for therapists in the United States, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, and Canada.

Some massage therapists want clearance from your doctor or midwife before treating you, so ask about that ahead of time. When you meet your therapist, remind her that you're pregnant before you begin your session.

How much does a prenatal massage cost?

An hour-long session can cost anywhere from $60 to $150, depending on where you live. Check your health insurance benefits: Some plans cover part of the cost of a massage if you can get a prescription from your midwife or doctor for a medical reason, such as back pain.

If your health plan includes a health savings account (HSA), or if you have a flexible spending account (FSA), you can pay for the massage out of either account and save money in taxes. You'll just need paperwork from your provider showing that the massage is medically necessary.

How do I lie on the massage table when I'm pregnant?

Right from the start of pregnancy, it may be uncomfortable to lie facedown because of your tender, swollen breasts. And you can't lie facedown on a traditional massage table once your belly has started to grow.

You can lie on your side with pillows, wedges, or a full-length body pillow for support. Some prenatal massage therapists even use a special table or pad with hollowed areas and pillows to accommodate your belly and breasts, so you can lie facedown.

If lying facedown on a special pregnancy massage table stresses your lower back, try lying on your side or ask your therapist to help you find a comfortable position.

And remember that it's not a good idea to lie flat on your back, especially once you're past midpregnancy, because the weight of your uterus puts too much pressure on the vein that returns blood from your legs to your heart.

What prenatal massage techniques can I try at home?

If a professional massage isn't an option, ask your partner or a friend to give you a hand. Pick up an instructional book or check out online videos on prenatal massage.

He or she may not be professionally trained, but a gentle, loving touch may provide the comfort you need. You might even try massage oils.

When is a prenatal massage unsafe?

Having a prenatal massage may be risky in a few situations, such as if:

You have a blood clot or a bone fracture.

You have a skin injury or condition that could be aggravated by rubbing. These include burns, open wounds, skin infections, or eczema.

You've had an allergic reaction to massage oils.

If you have concerns about whether it would be okay for you to have a prenatal massage, talk to your healthcare provider.

Learn more:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Prenatal massage: Help for your pregnancy aches and pains | BabyCenter

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Prenatal massage is a type that's similar to regular massage - it aims to relax tense muscles, ease sore spots, improve circulation and mobility, and just make you feel good. But prenatal massage is also customized to the needs of pregnant women and their changing bodies, and therapists trained in prenatal massage adjust their techniques accordingly.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Pregnancy massage for relaxation | Video | BabyCenter

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Terri Eaton: Labor can be tiring and stressful, and so I'm here with Amy to show you a few techniques of how to make your partner just a little bit more comfortable. Amy, hi. Thank you for coming. Amy: Hi. Terri Eaton: How far along are you today?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Use our helpful factsheets to find expert advice on key areas of looking after your new baby from when they are born to when they go to school. Written by experts in the field, they cover topics such as feeding, health, behaviour and development, and are based on up-to-date research and the experience and knowledge of real-life health visitors working across the UK.

Click on the topic links below to read the factsheets online or download a printable PDF.

Please also see our Parenting through Coronavirus section with resources to support families during the COVID-19 outbreak and beyond.

*The iHV does not authorise the direct placement of any Parent Tips or any other iHV products on any secondary websites hosted by organisations, or other bodies, outside the iHV. If you would like to disseminate iHV Parent Tips please can you do so by sharing the direct link to the product webpage on our website.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Use our helpful factsheets to find expert advice on key areas of looking after your new baby from when they are born to when they go to school.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
AiMH UK Association for Infant Mental Health

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Getting to Know Your Baby videos have been designed to help parents, caregivers and health professionals to know how to support the development of a baby's emotional wellbeing.

The videos help parents to observe their babies. Getting to Know Your Baby includes short videos of the six states of an infant's consciousness: deep sleep, light sleep, drowsy sleep, quite alert, unsettled and crying - to help parents identify their own baby's state, and think about what their feelings may be.

There is also information for AiMH members, to help parents identify how their baby likes to be soothed, and to recognise their subtle cues, likes and sensitivities. The videos get right to the heart of what parents can do to help their baby's emotional brain develop, and to set the thermostat for managing stress. It shows parents watching their baby's behaviour, wondering about their underlying feeling states, and responding with gentle voice, touch and gaze.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Getting to know your baby: videos | AiMH UK Association for Infant Mental Health

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Getting to Know Your Baby videos have been designed to help parents, caregivers and health professionals to know how to support the development of a baby's emotional wellbeing. The videos help parents to observe their babies.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Skin-to-skin contact - Baby Friendly Initiative

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Skin-to-skin contact is important for babies and mothers to develop close, loving parent-infant relationships and to initiate breastfeeding.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Our midwife-led information covers everything you need to know about having a safe and healthy pregnancy, from conception to birth.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Baby Check App - Is Your Baby Really Ill?

# data[].attributes.headline
Womb to world. What it may be like for your baby being born. Clip from "Look who's talking"

# data[].attributes.subject
Womb to world. What it may be like for your baby being born. Clip from "Look who's talking"

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Pregnancy and birth can be unsettling for women at the best of times, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Following the changes made to maternity care at Birmingham Women's Hospital, we have set up a dedicated helpline to provide an additional source of support for women.

Our friendly midwives are on hand to answer any questions about your maternity care during COVID-19. Operated by midwives, the hotline will be available from Monday to Friday, 9am until 5pm on 03000 201 201.

The helpline is available for you to discuss changes we have made to the care we provide, to ensure your safety during pregnancy, birth and after you have had your baby. We can offer advice on what you can expect when coming in to our hospital. Our dedicated team is here to support you.

However, in the event of an emergency you should still call 999. For any concerns regarding your wellbeing or if you think that you are in labour you should call Maternity triage on 03000 201 201. To rearrange appointments or for queries relating to specific appointments, please call the Booking Office.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Maternity services launch dedicated COVID-19 hotline | News

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Pregnancy and birth can be unsettling for women at the best of times, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Following the changes made to maternity care at Birmingham Women's Hospital, we have set up a dedicated helpline to provide an additional source of support for women.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The arrival of a new baby in the household will have an impact on your pet, so it's worth taking time to prepare everyone for the changes ahead.

According to the Pet Food Manufacturers' Association, around 40% of households in the UK have a pet. Having a pet at home brings developmental, social and emotional benefits for children, but it's important to be aware of the risks pets can pose to little ones too. Animals can aggravate allergies and asthma, and can carry germs or infections.

Babies and dogs

As soon as you learn that you're expecting a baby, you'll need to start to prepare your home and develop new routines with your dog. This will help to prepare them for the lifestyle changes ahead.

Here are some hints and tips for dog owners to ensure a good, safe start to the relationship between your dog and your baby.
Do

Set up the cot and bring out the buggy before the baby is born so that your dog can get used to seeing them about the house

Play recordings of baby sounds to familiarise your dog with them

Always be around to supervise your dog with your child

Train your dog to go to his bed, or to a safe place in the same room as you and your baby. This will give him somewhere to relax (quiet time) out of the way when you're busy with the baby

Avoid rough play with your dog - you don't want your dog to also be boisterous around your baby

As your child grows, teach them how to behave, play and interact with positively with your dog

Reward good calm behaviour in your dog, and be attentive to their needs too. You may feel tired, especially during the first weeks, but going for a walk is good for your dog and therapeutic for you and your baby too

Learn to recognise your dog's body language, so that you can understand how he is feeling and avoid difficulties

Make sure your dog is healthy - no worms, ticks or fleas

Don't

Leave your baby or child alone with ANY dog. Always supervise

Try to force the relationship

Leave nappies or baby toys around that could be dangerous for your dog

Let your growing child annoy, frustrate or be unkind to your dog

The Blue Cross has more advice on introducing your dog to your baby, as well as information on puppies and children and keeping toddlers safe around dogs.

You may also find this RSPCA leaflet on growing up with a dog useful.

Babies and cats

Once you find out you're pregnant, you'll need to be really careful when feeding your cat and cleaning out the litter tray. If you can get someone else to do this for you, please do. Cat poo can contain an infection called toxoplasmosis, and although it's rare, if you get it when you're pregnant, the infection can be passed to your baby. It can cause harm to the baby or even cause you to miscarry.

If you do have to clean out the litter tray, make sure you wear rubber gloves and always wash your hands thoroughly when you've finished. Further information about toxoplasmosis can be found on the NHS website.

Here are some further hints and tips for cat owners:
Do

Be aware of how your cat reacts to being handled. Some cats don't like being touched and can snag at your skin. This will give you an idea of how your cat is likely to react to an enthusiastic baby grasp in the future

Get your cat used to baby sounds by playing recordings of crying and gurgling babies, softly at first and then gradually increasing the volume. That way, your cat won't be stressed when the baby arrives

Always be there to supervise your cat with your child

Put out your cat's food in a place where the baby won't be able to reach it

Provide your cat with a safe, quiet place to go when things get busy and noisy with the baby

Keep cat toys and baby toys completely separate

Make sure your cat can't get into the room your baby sleeps in, especially at night

Don't

Force your cat to interact with the new baby

Leave dirty nappies about as this may cause the cat to wee and poo in the spot where the nappy was left

Let your cat into your baby's sleep space, whether your baby is in there or not

Leave your baby alone with the cat unsupervised

The Blue Cross offers further information on introducing your cat to your baby.

Further useful links:

The most common pets are dogs and cats, but you can find information on a whole range of different pets (and keeping your little ones safe around them), from the following sites:

Remember, you can also discuss pet safety with your health visitor.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Things to think about if you have pets | Pregnancy | Health for Under 5s

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The arrival of a new baby in the household will have an impact on your pet, so it's worth taking time to prepare everyone for the changes ahead. According to the Pet Food Manufacturers' Association, around 40% of households in the UK have a pet.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
What if my cat runs away?

If your cat prefers to run away from your baby, that's fine. Forcing your cat to interact with your baby could be very stressful.

Instead, allow your cat to escape and investigate in their own time. Carry on with your normal daily duties and routine and your cat should begin to accept your new arrival.

How will your cat react to your baby?

If your pet has already experienced the arrival of a new baby, and has coped well, you shouldn't have too many problems. Most cats are extremely adaptable and will cope well with some planning, but some cats might struggle.

If they are struggling, your cat may:

become more avoidant of you or the new baby

spend more time outside than usual

hide away for long periods

become less tolerant of being handled

toilet in areas they haven't previously

start spraying

If your cat is struggling, it's best to speak with a cat behaviourist. You can find a qualified, trusted behaviourist on the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC) website.

Things to think about

There are a few things that you will need to think about and be aware of.

Safety and babies

Never put your baby on the floor with your cat. They need to be supervised at all times. This is the case for all cats, even those with a good temperament.

To keep them safe when you can't supervise, you can:

use a screen door for the baby's nursery. This will allow you to keep the door shut, but still see and hear your baby.

think about using a cot and pram net to stop your cat from investigating your sleeping baby

be mindful of the areas your cat doesn't enjoy being stroked. It's common for most cats to be sensitive around their stomach area and tail. Babies can 'grab' in their enthusiasm to want to touch and stroke, which can easily upset your cat.

Safety and toddlers

Once your baby starts crawling and toddling it's important to remain alert.

Make sure that your cat has a safe place to rest and relax, which is not accessible to your toddler. This will avoid a situation where the cat is continuously followed, cornered and pestered.

Remember to place your cat's litter tray in a quiet area away from anywhere that your infant has access to

Hygiene

It's best to:

make an effort not to leave dirty nappies on the floor. They can cause cats to wee or poo on that spot.

use antibacterial soap to clean your hands after feeding, grooming or playing with your cat

always wear rubber gloves, which are washed afterwards, to clean your cat's litter tray

have a litter tray that has a top on it, so your cat can do their business but your baby can't get in

How will I know how my cat is coping?

You'll know your cat has settled in well with your baby if they:

act the same way they did before your baby arrived

approach your baby calmly and seem relaxed around them

are able to sleep, eat, play and go about their daily business as usual

If they are struggling, you may see some key signs of stress. These can include something as subtle as grooming too much to toileting and spraying in your house.

If you feel that your cat is not settling in well to life with a baby, it's best to speak with a cat behaviourist. You can find a qualified, trusted behaviourist on the Animal Behaviour and Training Council (ABTC) website.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If your cat prefers to run away from your baby, that's fine. Forcing your cat to interact with your baby could be very stressful. Instead, allow your cat to escape and investigate in their own time. Carry on with your normal daily duties and routine and your cat should begin to accept your new arrival.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Learn

Featured Cat

Molly
What pretty blue eyes! I'm Molly and I'm 5...

Latest News

Local supporter and cat lover, Beata Kelbert, is raising funds for East Surrey Cats Protection by ...

A survey of 1,100 cat owners by Cats Protection shows that many people are failing to understand the...

How you can help

BASIC HEALTH PRECAUTIONS
Expecting a baby? Congratulations! Here's some help with how to mix cats and babies.
Sadly, cat shelters often take in cats cast out when the owner is expecting a first baby or because the cat scratched the baby and is therefore "jealous and vicious". Many other couples or expectant mums have had their pet cat(s) for many years before starting a family, but reject the cat once the baby is due.

You usually prepare for the birth of a baby once the pregnancy is confirmed; you should extend this preparation to your cat. By getting the cat ready for the event several months in advance, your baby can enjoy growing up with animals.
Exposure to animals early on helps children to respect them and may even improve the immune system.
BE PREPARED - ESTABLISH A NEW ROUTINE
How will Puss react to the new addition?
A timid cat that is over-dependent on you, but hides from other people may find the new addition difficult to start with but you need to help it become more confident and less dependent on you well before the birth.

A devoted cat that joins in human activities will probably have hurt feelings, but is likely to join in with caring for baby if you let him.

An independent cat who treats you like a hotel will probably ignore the baby as long as hotel services remain unchanged.

Many cats become protective of what they view as a 'people-kitten' and there are accounts of cats raising the alarm when a baby shows signs of sudden illness. Far from being vicious creatures willing to suck a baby's breath, some have even saved abandoned babies' lives by snuggling up to infants that were at risk of hypothermia. Cats' emotions are different to human emotions and. contrary to common belief, cats do not plot or plan to do future things through jealousy or vengefulness.

You may have heard old wives' tales about jealous cats harming infants by suffocation or mauling. These scare stories are widely circulated and regularly crop up on pregnancy forums. They are usually exaggerated and the few that are genuine are only newsworthy due to their EXTREME rarity. Tales about cats suffocating babies abound, but actual occurrences are very rare; in many cases the presence of the cat was incidental. There was one confirmed case where the baby inhaled the cat's fur and its breathing was obstructed. Use a crib-net to keep your cat out of the crib or pram - this will reduce any accidental scratches and the transmission of bacteria.

Get information from your doctor and your vet about cat-borne organisms that can harm unborn babies and take appropriate precautions e.g. don't handle soiled cat litter and scrub garden vegetables before eating them.

Toxoplasmosis can harm an unborn baby, but cats are not the sole source of toxoplasmosis. Use rubber gloves and common sense about hygiene when cleaning out litter trays (if this task is unavoidable).

Ensure Puss is healthy and vaccinated. De-flea and de-worm him regularly as you don't want either parasite transferring itself to a baby or child. Children have little concept of hygiene and roundworm infection is actually quite common. There are roundworm remedies available for children and adults from pharmacies, but prevention is preferable. In some countries, flea and tick bites can carry blood parasites that harm cats and humans, so flea and tick treatment is essential.
AFTER THE ARRIVAL
Establish the cat's new routine gradually and well in advance of the new arrival. That way he has time to adapt. Let him sniff the crib, pram, baby-bath etc but teach him not to get inside them. Let him investigate the intended nursery room before making it out-of-bounds. If Puss knows what's in there, it is less of a tantalising mystery and he's more likely to ignore it. You may need to fit a scratch-guard to protect the shut door from an over-curious cat.

If you're concerned that Puss will try to sleep with the baby (they are nice and warm to snuggle up to), get crib and pram nets so he can't bed down with baby. These must be taut when fitted or the cat may use them as a hammock. Some American readers have mentioned difficulty in getting these, but they can be fashioned from large sections of fine mesh lace curtain (net curtain) or mosquito netting.

As the time of the arrival approaches, gradually reduce the amount of time spent petting your cat. Towards the end of pregnancy, Puss may not have much room to sit on the expectant mother's lap due to the "bump". Some cats are fascinated by the "bump," perhaps able to detect the movement within it. After the baby arrives you will have less time for petting and it will be less of an upheaval if you have already weaned Puss off having you at his beck and call. Establish a special 'cat-time' (e.g. in the evening after a baby's bed-time) to spend quality time together or, if possible, get your partner or an older child to become more active in caring for the cat and giving it attention while you care for junior. Some older children enjoy taking on the responsibility of becoming "mother" to Puss.

Ensure Puss's feeding area and litter tray are well away from areas needed for preparing baby's meals. Clean work surfaces before food preparation in case Puss has walked across them. As well as carrying in contaminants from outdoors or from the litter tray (normal bacteria from the faeces may be beneficial in the gut, but are not beneficial if ingested), some cats carrying the Helicobacter pylori bacteria associated with stomach ulcers.

Simple hygiene using a cat- and baby-safe disinfectant or anti-bacterial spray are recommended. If you use litter trays, persuade Puss to use a covered litter-tray with a cat-flap entrance (this reduces odours and the scattering of litter by enthusiastic excavators).

When baby arrives, Puss will probably be curious and probably somewhat wary of the new and noisy arrival so don't panic when he sniffs the crib or hangs around. Many cats soon lose interest and look for entertainment elsewhere. Some become self-appointed guardians to the new arrival and will want to watch you as your care for the baby. The warmth of a crib, with baby in residence or not, is attractive to cats and though they usually stay away from a baby's face (contrary to old wives' tales, most cats dislike the smell of human breath).

Keep the nursery door closed or fit a screen door when baby is asleep, but make sure Puss is not accidentally shut inside the nursery. If the nursery is at ground level or accessible from a roof or wall, keep the nursery windows closed or fit mesh screens. This precaution will keep cats - including strays and neighbours' cats - from entering from outdoors. A baby alarm or intercom will allow you to monitor baby.

Keep baby's feeding utensils out of Puss's reach and wipe up spilt baby food before Puss gets into the habit of hanging around and doing it for you. Keep cat food and baby food well separated to prevent cross-contamination. What goes in must come out (in the case of babies either upwards or downwards), so keep soiled nappies (diapers) shut firmly away from Puss.

Though it sounds gross to us, many cats are fascinated by bodily scents and will investigate soiled items. Something that many owners don't realise is that some cats love to chew or suck on wool and may be attracted to baby blankets! Wool-eating (pica) is more common in Siamese and related breeds. It is also not unknown for cats to steal small items of baby clothing (bonnets, boottees) and take them to bed, perhaps attracted by the smell.

Avoid cross-contamination by washing your hands after petting the cat and after cleaning litter tray, cat bedding and food bowls. If possible, use a different pair rubber gloves for these tasks. There are also alcohol-based anti-bacterial hand-scrubs available.

Don't leave cat and baby together unattended; most scratches are due to a cat fending off an inquisitive grasping or crawling baby. The jerky movements of a small child can catch a cat unawares and though it only means to fend off an "attack", cats' sharp claws and babies' fragile skin do not mix. Cats' mouths also carry lots of bacteria and though you shouldn't become paranoid (we actually need to encounter germs in order to develop a good immune system) it's not a good idea to let Puss keep licking the baby, however cute it seems - especially if you've just seen Puss leave his litter tray.

Inevitably you'll have friends and family round to see the new baby. Encourage these visitors to pay attention to the cat as well as the baby. Don't make Puss feel rejected, the baby is part of his life too and if he is made to feel part of the baby-raising activities he will be more accepting of the noisy intruder. Babies can be very stressful, especially if you aren't getting a good night's sleep and your cat also wants some fuss. If you get tired or irritated, don't take it out on Puss. Always keep a sense of priorities. You only have one pair of hands: baby is top priority, cat usually second and most other jobs can wait a few minutes unless you have a partner to help out (or an older child to give Puss plenty of attention).

Last, but not least, regularly de-worm and de-flea/de-tick Puss. Check which flea powders and flea-sprays are safest in a house where there is a baby or toddler. Also comb Puss regularly to remove any fleas and also any loose hair. Flea combing can be part of his quality time after baby's bedtime.

For every several hundred people who have raised cats and babies side-by-side, or who have grown up with cats, there will be one person who claims horror stories. Try not to take them too seriously, your cat(s) is a loving member of your family, please try and consider their happiness and wellbeing alongside the human members of the family. Cats and children can live in harmony!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Learn Featured Cat Molly What pretty blue eyes! I'm Molly and I'm 5... Latest News Local supporter and cat lover, Beata Kelbert, is raising funds for East Surrey Cats Protection by ... A survey of 1,100 cat owners by Cats Protection shows that many people are failing to understand the...

# data[].attributes.headline
Keeping babies and children safe around dogs in the home

# data[].attributes.subject
Keeping babies and children safe around dogs in the home

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
We know that having a dog can make children very happy and teach them about responsibility, how to be loved and loving, and how to respect living things. However, it is important to remember that dogs are a different species.

There is a lot that parents can do to reduce the risk of dogs harming babies and children. This guide provides advice to parents looking forward to welcoming a new baby into the home, as well as those who already have children and a dog in the household. The advice provided should be shared with friends, neighbours, carers and relatives.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Parent Tips - Keeping babies and children safe around dogs in the home - IHV

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We know that having a dog can make children very happy and teach them about responsibility, how to be loved and loving, and how to respect living things. However, it is important to remember that dogs are a different species.