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Lots of mothers carry on breastfeeding when they go back to work or college.

Parents' plans will depend on their individual circumstances including the age of the baby and how baby is being fed. Some parents choose to continue exclusively breast milk feeding their young baby, other babies might be eating solid food and also having expressed milk whilst some babies may have a combination of breastmilk and formula.

It is a good idea to discuss with your employer what support and policies are in place.

Here are resources including legal aspects, and practical aspects around expressing:

https://abm.me.uk/breastfeeding-information/breastfeeding-work/

https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/about/breastfeeding-in-the-uk/

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/breastfeeding-and-bottle-feeding/breastfeeding-and-lifestyle/back-to-work/

It can help to know about your rights.

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Colostrum, mothers' first milk is made in very small amounts and is perfect for healthy, term, newborn babies. Colostrum is packed with antibodies to protect the newborn against disease and infection, plus immune and growth factors, and other bioactives that help to activate a newborn’s immune system, jump start gut function, and seed a healthy gut microbiome in the first few days of life.

Women produce colostrum from around 16 weeks of pregnancy, so whether baby is born early, or by caesarean, mothers can provide milk for  their babies.

A baby who is allowed unrestricted skin to skin, and access to their mum's breasts will usually feed within 90 minutes of birth, and thereafter whenever they need.

If your baby is very small at birth, or if they are early, or if for any reason your baby needs extra support, you will be shown how to expressing milk by hand

Sometimes it is helpful to use a pump, or you can hire an electric breast pump .

Feeding twins can bring different challenges for parents – early support really helps.

If breastfeeding hurts, its important to get help with position and attachment, including trying different positions.

https://www.nct.org.uk/sites/default/files/related_documents/NCT%20laidback%20breastfeeding%20information%20sheet.pdf

Your midwives, health visitors and peer supporters will help you to learn how to hold your baby for feeding. Ask for help early.

Baby Buddy have film clips of skin to skin, first feeds, how breastfeeding works, expressing milk, feeding out & about and returning to work. Global Health Media have lots of helpful films including breastfeeding in the first hours.

More information about breastfeeding and bottle feeding is available in Arabic, Bengali, Polish, Romanian and Urdu:  Baby feeding in other languages

Delivery of the placenta triggers messages to make high volume milk, with usually an increase around day 3. often it can seem as though baby is hungry, and wants to feed a lot in the first few days. So long as its comfy, and baby is pooing and weeing, this is often helpful behaviour to stimulate  volume milk.most babies will feed at least 8-12 times in 24h after day 1.

Sometimes babies need a little more patience and encouragement, they might be too sleepy and sometimes milk supply needs more encouragement.

Your baby’s nappies – poos and wees – are a good sign that baby is feeding well.

Hand expressing and / or using a pump as mature milk comes in, can stimulate production as well as providing milk for a reluctant feeder. Lots of skin to skin contact can encourage opportunities to feed. Offering milk via syringe or cup can help to protect breastfeeding whilst ensuring baby is well fed.

Cup feeding your baby

If your baby is not feeding at the breast they can be fed without using a bottle.

Cup feeding can be used from birth for both expressed breastmilk and infant formula, using any clean, open cup with a smooth surface.

The IBFAN and La Leche League International Cup Feeding poster explains how to cup feed your baby safely and effectively. Ask your midwife if you have any questions.

Colostrum - Wikipedia

https://kellymom.com/ages/newborn/when-will-my-milk-come-in/

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/breastfeeding-first-days/

https://breastfeeding.support/when-baby-wont-breastfeed/

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As you prepare for your new baby's birth, you will want to do your best for your baby, making sure you access all of your antenatal appointments, eating a healthy diet,  getting rest, and spending time each day talking to your baby, getting to know each other. Remember they can hear from 20 weeks :)

Remember to book your ‘Getting Ready to Breastfeed’ workshop – 2 hours on Zoom with an infant feeding specialist with lots of practical information to help you get started feeding your new baby.

Newham Hospital offer a range of antenatal workshops, including antenatal expression of colostrum: Newham Parent Education Team Events | Eventbrite

Diet during pregnancy matters – try to eat a healthy balanced diet, take a vitamin D supplement (and folic acid in early pregnancy – speak to your midwife or health visitor for more information)

Building a happy baby - Bonding and attachment starts in pregnancy when parents talk to and respond to baby to baby; supporting  close and loving relationships, baby’s well being and brain development.

How babies and children are fed affects their life long health and well-being. Newham Baby Feeding are here to support you and to provide reliable information, however you feed your baby. We will help with breastfeeding, bottle feeding, mixed feeding, starting solids and weaning.

See Start 4 life for info on healthy eating and physical exercise for babies and children.

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getting ready to breastfeed - online antenatal baby feeding workshop.

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getting ready to breastfeed - online antenatal baby feeding workshop. tickets

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Getting ready to breastfeed - Online antenatal baby feeding workshop.

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Eventbrite - Newham Baby Feeding (Newham Children's Health) presents Getting ready to breastfeed - Online antenatal baby feeding workshop. - Wednesday, 24 June 2020 | Tuesday, 28 December 2021 - Find event and ticket information.

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Congratulations! Having a new baby can be an exciting, wonderful time. It's a time of significant change for you, your partner and any other children.  Sometimes this time can also be exhausting and worrying.

Holding your baby in close skin contact helps to stabilise baby's breathing, heart rate, temperature and blood sugars. Skin contact is calming for mum too, and her partner, and can help get breastfeeding Off to the best start. Keeping baby close helps parents to recognise when baby needs feeding, calming and soothing.

Skin-to-skin contact - Baby Friendly Initiative (unicef.org.uk)

Building a happy baby - Bonding and attachment starts in pregnancy when parents talk to and respond to baby to baby; supporting  close and loving relationships, baby’s wellbeing and brain development.

Dad’s support matters - How you can support mum and how you can bond with your baby, and grandparents can help too: looking after mum and taking care of the housework.

To make enough milk for your baby feed baby whenever he wants, to tell your body to make milk. You don’t need a special diet, but do carry on taking vitamin D, and give baby Vitamin D too. Free vitamins available: Healthy Start Newham

Night feeds are important in the early months for establishing milk supply, and babies need frequent feeds. Caring for your baby at night offers information to support parents with getting some rest, night feeding, safe sleeping environments and helping baby to settle.

Infant Sleep Information Source – evidence based information about normal baby sleep, to support parents.

Holding your baby in close skin contact helps to stabilise baby and mum and help get breastfeeding Off to the best start. Keeping baby close helps parents to recognise when baby needs feeding, calming and soothing.

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Within the first few hours after birth, most healthy newborns will instinctively move to their mother's breast and attach on their own. This video shows early breastfeeding initiation through the journeys of 3 newborns and ways to ensure the success of this vital practice for any new mother and baby.

Join the Conversation

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Breastfeeding in the First Hours - Video - Global Health Media Project

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Within the first few hours after birth, most healthy newborns will instinctively move to their mother's breast and attach on their own. This video shows early breastfeeding initiation through the journeys of 3 newborns and ways to ensure the success of this vital practice for any new mother and baby.

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Accessing good support and reliable information can really help.

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Accessing good support and reliable information can really help.

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If you have any questions or concerns, however big or little about feeding your baby, drop a text to Newham Baby Feeding Helpline on 07534 249 611. Skilled non-judgmental help is available. You can text, What's App, exchange voice messages, arrange video calls and phone calls, whatever works for you.

Our Baby Feeding Cafe meets on Tuesdays, from 1:30 – 3:00pm on Zoom where you can meet other parents to chat and get support.

Newham Baby Feeding are here to support you and to provide reliable information, however you feed your baby. We will help with breastfeeding, bottle feeding, mixed feeding, starting solids and weaning.

In the early days your community midwifery team will be available to support you. They will provide you with details of how to contact them.

Newham Health Visiting - Around day 10-14 your health visitor will take over care from your midwife.

There’s also lots of local support from our voluntary services as well as the national helplines – 7 days a week:

| National Childbirth Trust (NCT) | 8am - 12pm | 0300 330 0700
| La Leche League GB (LLL) | 24 hours daily | 0845 120 2918
| Breastfeeding Network (BfN) | 9.30am - 9.30pm | 0300 100 0210
| Association of Breastfeeding Mothers | 9.30am - 10.30pm | 0300 330 5453
| National breastfeeding helpline | 9.30am - 9.30pm | 0300 100 0212

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Newham Baby Feeding - Online Postnatal Support Group for new parents with babies. Zoom - 1.5 hours - please join using link provided.

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Sometimes mums need extra help with early problems: if breastfeeding hurts, or concern that baby isn’t getting enough milk. Asking for help soon can really help with most breastfeeding issues - often small adjustments to the latch can make a big difference, especially with sore nipples.

Newham Baby Feeding Helpline is here to help you 07534249611.

Occasionally a baby can’t use their tongue fully – your health visitor, midwife or peer supporter can help you with information about tongue tie

If your baby is very small at birth, or if they are early, or if for any reason your baby needs extra support, you will be shown how to expressing milk by hand

Sometimes it is helpful to use a pump, or you can hire an electric breast pump . Ardo offer £10 off with promocode 'AGENTSNCT'

Feeding twins can bring different challenges for parents – early support really helps.

Medications and breastfeeding can cause concerns, speak to your healthcare professional. These drugs in breastmilk factsheets have helpful information.

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Feeding out and about– Breast feeding is portable – and you are protected by law – you can feed you baby anywhere. Look out for the ‘breastfeeding welcome’ signs when you’re out and about in Newham.

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Introducing Solids - weaning - for Newham families

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Starting solids - weaning your baby usually starts at around 6 months - it can be an exciting time. Talk to your health visitor about why it’s good to wait, and  nutritional needs of babies , which foods are best and signs your baby is ready. Take a look at these recipe ideas with practical advice about weaning, portion size, budget and nutrition information.  It’s best to let babies feed themselves as much as possible. Parents might be concerned about  choking, Always stay with your child when they are eating – eat together as a family – babies copy health habits.

Weaning - introducing solids - family foods
A FREE, 2 hour,  interactive and fun workshop for Newham parents with babies around 4 - 6 months.

When, how and why? Come along to this free and friendly workshop all about helping you and your baby, as baby starts exploring solid foods. Milk is all that babies need until they are 6 months, then a gradual introduction to nutritious family foods is recommended. Over 120 mins we will talk about getting started with weaning your little one: including baby led weaning, equipment, which foods to start with, safety concerns, meal planners and more.

Early Start Nutrition offer excellent resources and workshops including: "Weaning your Baby Webinar" and  "Toddler Meals and Snacks" - 45 minute webinars to support parents with reliable information from nutritionists working with families and nurseries in Newham.

Your local Newham Best Start in Life Children's Centre
also offer workshops facilitated by Health Visitors, speak to your Health Visitor or click on the link for more info about local services.

By 12 months babies need to be moving on from bottles and transitioning to beakers and open cups. Babies and young children’s only drinks should water or milk.

Healthy snacks are an important part of your baby and toddlers meals – here are easy recipe ideas, with portion size and costs from First Steps Nutrition.

https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/salt-nutrition/

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introducing solids - weaning - for newham families

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introducing solids - weaning - for newham families tickets

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Introducing Solids - weaning - for Newham families

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Eventbrite - Newham Baby Feeding (Newham Children's Health) presents Introducing Solids - weaning - for Newham families - Wednesday, 8 September 2021 - Find event and ticket information.

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If your baby already has an allergy, such as a diagnosed food allergy or eczema, or if you have a family history of food allergies, eczema, asthma or hay fever, you may need to be particularly careful when introducing foods. Talk to your GP or health visitor first.

Foods that can trigger an allergic reaction are:

cows' milk

eggs (eggs without a red lion stamp should not be eaten raw or lightly cooked)

foods that contain gluten, including wheat, barley and rye

nuts and peanuts (serve them crushed or ground)

seeds (serve them crushed or ground)

soya

shellfish (do not serve raw or lightly cooked)

fish

When you start introducing solid foods to your baby from around 6 months old, introduce the foods that can trigger allergic reactions one at a time and in very small amounts so that you can spot any reaction.

NHS Food allergies in babies

Research on allergies

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If you have any questions or concerns, however big or little about feeding your baby, drop a text to Newham Baby Feeding Helpline on 07534249611. Skilled non-judgmental help is available. You can arrange video calls, or just chat via text, whatever works for you.

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If you have any questions or concerns, however big or little about feeding your baby, drop a text to Newham Baby Feeding Helpline on 07534249611. Skilled non-judgmental help is available. You can arrange video calls, or just chat via text, whatever works for you.

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If you have any questions or concerns, however big or little about feeding your baby, drop a text to Newham Baby Feeding Helpline on 07534249611. Skilled non-judgmental help is available. You can arrange video calls, or just chat via text, whatever works for you.

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For many women, the first breastfeed that they properly watch up close is their own, with their first baby.

Like most skills, it can often really help to watch other people, and get familiar before giving it a go yourself.

Here's some videos that many mothers have found really helpful, all on one youtube channel :

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIwfKUB6yFWcvxMj2b21L5Z3nI8pwDpfD

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Emotional and practical support in the early days are well known as being very important for helping mothers to establish breastfeeding.

Parents form relationships and deep loving bonds with their babies in many different ways, feeding being one but not the only way.

BBC Radio 4 - The Science of Dad

Partners and breastfeeding - ABM

Dad Matters – Supporting Dads in Greater Manchester to have the best possible relationships with their families.

Grandparents Support

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Breastfeeding provides baby with perfectly tailored nutrition, as well as immune protection. Breastfed babies have fewer infections, healthier weight, and lower risk of many diseases. Breastfeeding helps mothers too, including lower risk of some cancers and healthier weight, you'll find more info here:

NHS:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/your-breastfeeding-questions/

Exclusive breastfeeding (breast milk only) is recommended for around the first 6 months of your baby's life. Breastfeeding alongside solid foods is best for babies from 6 months.

You and your baby can carry on enjoying the benefits of breastfeeding for as long as you like. Breastfeeding into your baby's 2nd year or beyond, alongside other foods, is ideal.

Lots of mothers carry on breastfeeding when they go back to work or college. Read more about breastfeeding after returning to work. You do not have to stop breastfeeding if you get pregnant again, either.

The benefits of breastfeeding - Baby Friendly Initiative (unicef.org.uk)

https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/about/breastfeeding-in-the-uk/

The Lancet Breastfeeding Series 2016
https://www.thelancet.com/series/breastfeeding

WHO presentation of the extensive review of research:

https://www.who.int/nutrition/events/2016_bfhi_congress_presentation_latestscience_nemat.pdf

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Our work to support breastfeeding is based on extensive and resounding evidence that breastfeeding saves lives, improves health and cuts costs in every country worldwide.

Infant health: Breastfeeding protects children from a vast range of illnesses, including infection, diabetes, asthma, heart disease and obesity, as well as cot death (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)

Maternal health: Breastfeeding also protects mothers from breast and ovarian cancers and heart disease

Relationship-building: Breastfeeding supports the mother-baby relationship and the mental health of both baby and mother

Worldwide benefits: The benefits are seen in both high- and low-income countries, with a study published in The Lancet in 2016 finding that increasing breastfeeding rates around the world to near universal levels could prevent 823,000 annual deaths in children younger than five years and 20,000 annual maternal deaths from breast cancer

Cost savings: Breastfeeding contributes to significant savings to the NHS, with initial investments paying off within just a few years. A NICE costing report estimates that Baby Friendly accreditation will start to save a facility money after three years, owing to a reduction in the incidence of certain childhood illnesses. Baby Friendly's report Preventing disease and saving resources found that moderate increases in breastfeeding would translate into cost savings for the NHS of many millions of pounds, and tens of thousands of fewer hospital admissions and GP consultations. In addition, Baby Friendly's staged approach to assessment and accreditation allows facilities to spread costs and enables better financial planning.

Key sources of breastfeeding research

Lancet breastfeeding series: Confirms the benefits of breastfeeding for children and mothers, regardless of whether they live in high- or low-income nations, and that countries are not doing enough to support breastfeeding

Acta Paediatrica special issue on breastfeeding: Finds that the health benefits of breastfeeding are substantial, lasting well beyond the period of breastfeeding and affecting high- and low-income populations alike, whilst also demonstrating that the Baby Friendly Initiative is highly effective in improving breastfeeding rates

Evidence and rationale for the Baby Friendly standards

Preventing disease and saving resources: Looks at the potential health and cost contributions of increasing breastfeeding rates in the UK.

Find our more in our research section.

Breastfeeding is a natural 'safety net' against the worst effects of poverty ... Exclusive breastfeeding goes a long way toward cancelling out the health difference between being born into poverty and being born into affluence ... It is almost as if breastfeeding takes the infant out of poverty for those first few months in order to give the child a fairer start in life and compensate for the injustice of the world into which it was born.

James P. Grant, Executive Director of UNICEF (1980-1995)

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The benefits of breastfeeding - Baby Friendly Initiative

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Learn more about Baby Friendly's work to support breastfeeding in order to save lives, improve health and cut costs worldwide.

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Parental responsiveness during the first 1001 critical days: cuddles, eye contact, talking, singing, playing with your baby, showing them their world.  The evidence is overwhelming that how babies are cared for in the first 1001 days (conception to 2 years) have by far the greatest impact on their emotional and mental well-being andtheir brain development. In no small part due to the love hormone OXYTOCIN.

Starting in pregnancy, responding to baby's movements, talking to baby, including your partner and baby's older siblings :)

Building a happy baby: A Guide for Parents Leaflet - Baby Friendly Initiative (unicef.org.uk)

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This leaflet offers advice and information for parents on getting to know their baby and setting up the foundations for a close and loving relationship.

We now know that building a strong relationship between parents and their new baby will give them the best possible start in life and will help them to grow up happy and confident. This leaflet is free to download and helps parents to develop that strong relationship, starting in pregnancy and continuing into the early days, weeks and months of a baby's life.

Health professionals may want to use this leaflet in conjunction with the Baby Friendly guide to antenatal and postnatal conversations and accompanying signature sheets.

Printed copies cost £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. Our myth buster posters show the key Happy Baby messages in bright and colourful poster form - find out more.

Building a Happy Baby: A Guide for Parents

Baby Friendly standards

Support to build a close and loving relationship is a key element of the Baby Friendly standards. Find out more about embedding our standards in your service.

Find more relationship building resources

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Building a happy baby: A Guide for Parents Leaflet - Baby Friendly Initiative

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This leaflet helps parents to get to know their baby and to set up the foundations for a close and loving relationship.

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Newborn babies feed frequently: Feeding baby when they show early feeding cues - stirring, opening their mouth, sucking their hands; On day one, some babies feed many times, others as few as 4-5 times; From day 2 healthy babies feed a minimum of 8-12 times in 24 hours.

If baby is feeding at least 8-12 times in 24 hours, and producing plenty of wet and dirty nappies, likely baby is also gaining weight well.

Your midwife, and later,. after day 14, your health visitor, will want to assess how feeding is going, using the form above, or holistic questions based on this form.

Newborn baby poo in nappies: what to expect | NCT

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These tools are for mothers to fill in with their midwife or health visitor and use several common signs to assess whether a baby is breastfeeding well and safely.

Please note that once the assessment has taken place, if there are any unticked boxes on either of the forms you will need to observe a full breastfeed.

For further help on having compassionate and effective conversations with mothers, please see our guidance on antenatal and postnatal conversations.

Breastfeeding Assessment Tool (maternity) - How you and your midwife can recognise that your baby is feeding well

Breastfeeding Assessment Tool (health visiting) - How you and your health visitor can recognise that your baby is feeding well

Breastfeeding Assessment Tool (neonatal) - How you and your nurse/midwife can tell that breastfeeding is going well

Breastfeeding Checklist for Mothers - How can I tell that breastfeeding is going well?

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Breastfeeding Assessment Tools - Baby Friendly Initiative

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These tools are for mothers to fill in with their midwife, neonatal nurse or health visitor and help to assess how a baby is breastfeeding.

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Night feeds in the early days are important for establishing milk supply and comforting and feeding your baby. Here are several resources we hope you find helpful including important information about *safe sleep*:

https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/baby-friendly-resources/sleep-and-night-time-resources/caring-for-your-baby-at-night/

How to reduce the risk of SIDS for your baby - The Lullaby Trust

normal infant sleep:

https://youtu.be/g5fOogsUpIk

https://www.nct.org.uk/baby-toddler/sleep/newborns-and-sleep-routines-and-patterns-0-3-months

https://www.basisonline.org.uk

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/getting-baby-to-sleep/

dummies and sleep

https://www.basisonline.org.uk/dummies/

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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.

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Caring for your baby at night leaflet - Baby Friendly Initiative

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This leaflet, endorsed by BASIS, the RCM and The Lullaby Trust, offers practical advice for parents on caring for their sleeping baby.

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All pregnant women, new mothers and children under four years of age in Newham can receive FREE vitamins funded by Newham Public Health.

Healthy Start Vitamins can help your children grow healthy and strong and help you maintain your health during pregnancy and after birth. Healthy Start vitamins contain Vitamin D and are suitable for Halal and Vegetarian diet.

Please collect your FREE vitamins from participating children centres in Newham from May 2021. Please call the centre before you visit to make sure that they have the stock available. Healthy Start Newham

Baby vitamins

From birth, all breastfed babies should be given a daily supplement of vitamin D (8.5 to 10mcg). But if your baby is having more than 500ml (about a pint) of first infant formula a day, they do not need a supplement because formula is already fortified with vitamin D.

Baby Vitamins | Baby | Start4Life (www.nhs.uk)

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Some mothers express their milk, sometimes as a way to increase milk supply, or if they cannot be there to breastfeed baby. Milk can be stored for 5 days at the back of the fridge, and up to 6 months in the freezer. It is generally advised to wait 4-6 weeks before introducing a bottle to let baby learn to breastfeed, and milk supply to establish well.

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Expressing milk means squeezing milk out of your breast so you can store it and feed it to your baby later.

You might want to express milk if:

How to express breast milk

You can express milk by hand or with a breast pump. How often you express your milk, and how much you express, will depend on why you're doing it.

Sometimes it takes a little while for your milk to start flowing. Try to choose a time when you feel relaxed. Having your baby (or a photo of them) nearby may help your milk to flow.

You may find it easier to express if you cover your breasts with a warm towel first, or after you have a shower or bath.

Expressing breast milk by hand

Some find it easier to express milk by hand, especially in the first few days or weeks. It also means you can express without needing a pump, or an electricity supply.

Hand expressing allows you to encourage milk to flow from a particular part of the breast. This may be useful, for example, if one of the milk ducts in your breast becomes blocked.

Hold a sterilised feeding bottle or container below your breast to catch the milk as it flows.

These tips may help:

Before you start, wash your hands with soap and warm water.

Have something clean ready to collect the milk in.

Some find gently massaging their breasts before expressing helps their milk to let down.

Cup your breast with one hand then, with your other hand, form a "C" shape with your forefinger and thumb.

Squeeze gently, keeping your finger and thumb a few centimetres away from your nipple, just outside the darker area around it (areola). Do not squeeze the nipple itself as you could make it sore. This should not hurt.

Release the pressure, then repeat, building up a rhythm. Try not to slide your fingers over the skin.

Drops should start to appear, and then your milk usually starts to flow.

If no drops appear, try moving your finger and thumb slightly, but still avoid squeezing the darker area near your nipple.

When the flow slows down, move your fingers round to a different section of your breast, and repeat.

When the flow from one breast has slowed, swap to the other breast. Keep changing breasts until your milk drips very slowly or stops altogether.

Watch a video about expressing milk by hand on the UNICEF website

Expressing milk with a breast pump

There are 2 different types of breast pump: manual (hand-operated) and electric.

Manual pumps are cheaper but may not be as quick as an electric pump.

You may be able to hire an electric pump. Your midwife, health visitor or a local breastfeeding supporter can give you details of pump hire services near you.

The suction strength can be altered on some electric pumps. Build up slowly. Setting the strength to high straight away may be painful or damage your nipple.

You may also be able to get different funnel (the part that goes over your nipple) sizes to fit your nipples. The pump should never cause bruising or catch your nipple as it's sucked into the funnel.

Always make sure that the pump and container are clean and sterilised before you use them.

Find out how to sterilise baby bottles

Storing breast milk

You can store breast milk in a sterilised container or in special breast milk storage bags:

in the fridge for up to 8 days at 4C or lower (you can buy fridge thermometers online) - if you're not sure of the temperature of your fridge, or it is higher than 4C, use it within 3 days

for 2 weeks in the ice compartment of a fridge

for up to 6 months in a freezer, if it's -18C or lower

Breast milk that's been cooled in the fridge can be carried in a cool bag with ice packs for up to 24 hours.

Storing breast milk in small quantities will help avoid waste. If you're freezing it, make sure you label and date it first.

Defrosting frozen breast milk

It's best to defrost frozen breast milk slowly in the fridge before giving it to your baby. If you need to use it straight away, you can defrost it by putting it in a jug of warm water or holding it under running warm water.

Once it's defrosted, give it a gentle shake if it has separated. Use it straight away. Do not re-freeze milk that's been defrosted.

Once your baby has drunk from a bottle of breast milk it should be used within 1 hour and anything left over should be thrown away.

Warming breast milk

You can feed expressed milk straight from the fridge if your baby is happy to drink it cold. Or you can warm the milk to body temperature by putting the bottle in a jug of warm water or holding it under running warm water.

Do not use a microwave to heat up or defrost breast milk. This can cause hot spots, which can burn your baby's mouth.

Storing breast milk if your baby is in hospital

If you're expressing breast milk because your baby is premature or sick, ask the hospital staff caring for your baby for advice on how to store it.

Read more about breastfeeding a premature or sick baby

If you're having difficulty expressing breast milk

If you're finding it difficult or uncomfortable to express your breast milk:

Ask your midwife, health visitor or breastfeeding supporter for help. They can also tell you about other breastfeeding support available near you.

Search online for breastfeeding support in your area.

Call the National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212 (9.30am to 9.30pm daily).

The Bliss website also has advice about expressing milk for a premature or sick baby

Community content from HealthUnlocked

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Everything you need to know about expressing and storing your breast milk, including tips on hand expressing and electric breast pumps, and how to freeze, defrost and warm breast milk.

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NHS:

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/your-breastfeeding-questions/

Exclusive breastfeeding (breast milk only) is recommended for around the first 6 months of your baby's life. Breastfeeding alongside solid foods is best for babies from 6 months.

You and your baby can carry on enjoying the benefits of breastfeeding for as long as you like. Breastfeeding into your baby's 2nd year or beyond, alongside other foods, is encouraged by the WHO and NHS. Your breastfeeding questions answered - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Infant and young child feeding (who.int)

Lots of mothers carry on breastfeeding when they go back to work or college. Read more here about breastfeeding after returning to work. You do not have to stop breastfeeding if you get pregnant again, either.

https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/about/breastfeeding-in-the-uk/

The Lancet Breastfeeding Series 2016

WHO presentation of the extensive review of research:

https://www.who.int/nutrition/events/2016_bfhi_congress_presentation_latestscience_nemat.pdf

https://www.thelancet.com/series/breastfeeding

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Get the latest news and research updates from Baby Friendly

Sign up today

Find out about breastfeeding rates in the UK and our work to improve them.

Breastfeeding: a public health issue

Breastfeeding is a highly emotive subject in the UK because so many families have not breastfed, or have experienced the trauma of trying very hard to breastfeed and not succeeding. The pain felt by so many parents at any implication that they have not done the best for their child can close down conversation. It is time to stop laying the blame for the UK's low breastfeeding rates in the laps of individual women and instead acknowledge that this is a public health imperative for which government, policy makers, communities and families all share responsibility.

Unicef UK urges the UK and devolved governments to implement four key actions to create a supportive, enabling environment for women who want to breastfeed. Find out more about our Call to Action campaign.

Breastfeeding rates in the UK

In the UK we have some of the lowest breastfeeding rates in the world, with eight out of ten women stopping breastfeeding before they want to.

The last UK-wide Infant Feeding Survey was conducted in 2010, and we are calling on UK governments to reinstate this. Key findings were:

Breastfeeding initiation: 81% (up from 76% in 2005).

Exclusive breastfeeding at six weeks was 24% in England compared to 17% in Wales and 13% in Northern Ireland - see below for more recent survey results from Scotland.

Exclusive breastfeeding at three months: 17% (up from 13% in 2005).

Exclusive breastfeeding at four months: 12% (up from 7% in 2005).

Exclusive breastfeeding at six months (as recommended by the World Health Organization) remained at around 1%.

The rate of any breastfeeding at six weeks was 55% (rising from 48% in 2005), while at six months it was 34% (rising from 25% in 2005). These improvements coincided with a marked increase in engagement with the Baby Friendly Initiative.

In 2018 Scotland released results from its Maternal and Infant Nutrition Survey, highlighting marked improvements in breastfeeding rates - particularly the rise in breastfeeding at six months from 32% in 2010 to 43% in 2017. The results highlight the positive impact of a national infant feeding strategy, including supporting 100% of maternity and community services in Scotland to achieve Baby Friendly accreditation.

All about breastfeeding

Find out more about the benefits of a successful breastfeeding relationship

Improving UK breastfeeding rates

Improving the UK's breastfeeding rates would have a profoundly positive impact on child health. For example, increasing the number of babies who are breastfed could cut the incidence of common childhood illnesses such as ear, chest and gut infections and save the NHS up to £50 million each year. Breastfeeding rates in comparable European countries, with similar population sizes and demographics, show that it is possible to increase rates with a supportive breastfeeding culture and the political will to do so.

A key aspect of improving breastfeeding rates is the provision of face-to-face, ongoing, predictable support to families across all public services, and social support in the local community. The Baby Friendly Initiative enables mothers to receive this help within healthcare services, delivering a holistic, child-rights based pathway for improving care. We provide the crucial impetus that busy health professionals need to raise standards, enabling them to prioritise what is best for each and every child above the pressures of tightening funds and staff numbers, and providing an achievable roadmap for improvement.

Unicef, working in partnership with the WHO, is uniquely placed to deliver this life-saving work. We have the knowledge, credibility and infrastructure to work with an organization the size of the NHS to put the standards in place to make a difference to children's lives across the UK. For an outline of how Baby Friendly can impact long term public health outcomes, see our Theory of change document on the About Baby Friendly page.

Find breastfeeding statistics and policies for each country in the UK

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Breastfeeding in the UK - Baby Friendly Initiative

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Get the latest news and research updates from Baby Friendly Sign up today Find out about breastfeeding rates in the UK and our work to improve them. Breastfeeding is a highly emotive subject in the UK because so many families have not breastfed, or have experienced the trauma of trying very hard to breastfeed and not succeeding.

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For many mothers and babies across the world, breastfeeding is gradually replaced by other drinks and solid food over a period of years in a process of natural weaning. However, sometimes a mother will want or need to stop breastfeeding sooner rather than later. Stopping breastfeeding is best done gradually over a period of several weeks if possible to give you and your little one time to adjust emotionally as well as nutritionally for the infant, and to avoid painful mastitis for the mother. Some women experience low mood, depression and anxiety when stopping breastfeeding rapidly. This is thought to be due to changing hormone levels.

https://www.nct.org.uk/baby-toddler/feeding/practical-tips/how-do-i-stop-breastfeeding

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/baby/breastfeeding-and-bottle-feeding/breastfeeding/how-to-stop/

https://www.laleche.org.uk/breastfeeding-ends-suddenly/

https://kellymom.com/ages/weaning/wean-how/depression-and-weaning

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Breastfeeding provides nutrition and immunity for your baby. It is also a time for closeness and connection, no matter how old your baby or toddler is.

We support parents whichever way they feed their babies. If you are breastfeeding and you decide you'd like to stop, there are ways to make it easier for you and your baby.

You might find it helpful to explore your options for stopping with a breastfeeding counsellor or supporter from your local NCT branch. You could also call our support line on 0300 330 0700.

Watch our video for tips on how to stop breastfeeding.

Recommendations for when to stop

The NHS and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommend that you exclusively breastfeed your baby - give them breastmilk only - for the first six months of their life. The WHO also recommends continuing to breastfeed your baby for up to two years and beyond. (WHO, 2013c)

"The longer you breastfeed up to two years, the greater the health benefits might be for you and your child.(WHO, 2013c) Yet the most important thing is to continue breastfeeding for as long as feels right for you and your baby, rather than what other people think." (ABM, 2018)

At the same time, it's worth considering your reasons for stopping breastfeeding.

When should I stop breastfeeding?

If you're having breastfeeding problems, there's support available.

"Getting the right support may mean you don't need to stop breastfeeding if you wish to continue."

It's sometimes possible to restart breastfeeding if you've had a short break and want to carry on. If you aren't sure whether to continue breastfeeding, you could call our infant feeding support line on 0300 330 0700.

Common reasons mums consider stopping breastfeeding:

Breastfeeding difficulties. If your baby is struggling to feed efficiently or not gaining weight, there's help available. You can get support from one of our breastfeeding counsellors and peer support from other breastfeeding mums. This may help you continue breastfeeding if you wish to.

Returning to work. This doesn't mean you have to stop breastfeeding - you should be able to continue to breastfeed if you want to. Workplaces should provide a private place for you to express and store breastmilk if required. You may wish to consider changing your work hours or combination feeding your baby (offering both breastmilk and formula milk).

Going on holiday. A break away doesn't mean you need to stop breastfeeding. Many breastfeeding mums find breastfeeding on holiday is easy because they don't need to take bottles, formula or sterilising equipment.

Your baby's age. It's up to you and your baby how long you continue breastfeeding.

How to stop breastfeeding your baby

Even if your baby is eating solids, breast milk or formula still has to be their main drink until they're at least one year old. This is a must.

Whichever way you stop breastfeeding and whenever you do it, take it slowly. Stopping breastfeeding your baby gradually is important for your own comfort and wellbeing. It can also make the adjustment gentler for your baby.

Approaches to stopping breastfeeding

Here are some of the different approaches to stopping breastfeeding but only you know which approach is right for you and your baby.

1. One option can be to drop a feed and replace it with an alternative milk. If your baby is less than 12 months this would be formula milk. If you baby is over 12 months this could be either full fat cows milk or formula milk, unless directed to an alternative type of milk by your health professional. A bottle is suitable if your baby is 6 months or under or a cup for babies over 6 months.

2. You may want to keep some breastfeeds. For example, keep a breastfeed to help your baby settle to sleep in the evening or during the night, or an early morning feed to give you extra time in bed. You can drop these feeds when it suits you and your baby.

3. Some mums go for breastfeeding to natural term, which is where their child chooses when to stop breastfeeding. This is likely to happen gradually over a long time - months or more. If you breastfeed to natural term, you'll notice your little one's feeding sessions eventually become shorter and more infrequent, until they finally stop completely. (La Leche League GB, 2016; NHS Choices, 2017)

It's helpful to stop breastfeeding gradually for toddlers as well as for babies. Often toddlers are very keen on breastfeeding and sometimes increase their need for it. Read our article ten tips for stopping breastfeeding a toddler, to help smooth the transition for you and your toddler.

Other mums who have breastfed beyond babyhood may have useful experiences and tips to share. Check with your local NCT branch to see if there is a drop-in breastfeeding group. These groups give you the chance to chat with other mums or speak to one of our breastfeeding counsellors for support. You can find our breastfeeding support contacts listed here and find out what support might be available in your area here.

"It's important to stop breastfeeding when the time feels right for you. Whenever you choose to stop breastfeeding, support is available."

This page was last reviewed in October 2017

Further information

Our support line offers practical and emotional support in all areas of pregnancy and early parenthood, whether you are breastfeeding your baby, formula-feeding them or a combination: 0300 330 0700.

NHS Choices breastfeeding information.

Visit our breastfeeding support contacts page.

ABM. (2018) Questions mums ask about stopping breastfeeding. Available from: https://abm.me.uk/breastfeeding-information/questions-mums-ask-about-stopping-breastfeeding/ [Accessed 1st October 2017].

La Leche League GB. (2016) Thinking of weaning. Available from: https://www.laleche.org.uk/thinking-of-weaning/ [Accessed 1st October 2017].

La Leche League GB. (2017) When breastfeeding ends suddenly. Available from: https://www.laleche.org.uk/breastfeeding-ends-suddenly/ [Accessed 1st October 2017].

NHS Choices. (2017) How to stop breastfeeding. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/stopping-breastfeeding/ [Accessed 1st October 2017].

WHO. (2013a) Short-term effects of breastfeeding. Available from: http://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/95585/9789241506120_eng.pdf?sequence=1 [Accessed 1st October 2017].

WHO. (2013b) Global strategy for infant and young child feeding. Available from: http://www.who.int/nutrition/publications/infantfeeding/9241562218/en/ [Accessed 1st October 2017].

WHO. (2013c) Beyond survival: integrated delivery care practices for long-term maternal and infant nutrition, health and development. Available from: http://www.who.int/nutrition/publications/infantfeeding/BeyondSurvival_2nd_edition_en.pdf?ua=1 [Accessed 1st October 2017].
Further reading
Ystrom E (2012) Breastfeeding cessation and symptoms of anxiety and depression: a longitudinal cohort study. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth. 12:36. doi:10.1186/1471-2393-12-36. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22621668 [Accessed 1st October 2017].

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How do I stop breastfeeding? | Baby & toddler, Feeding articles & support | NCT

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You can breastfeed your baby for as long as you wish but a time may come when you want to stop. This article offers tips on how to stop breastfeeding.

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If you have any concerns about your baby or young child you can speak to your GP, or Midwife , Health Visitor or call 111.

In an emergency call 999.

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We are seeing an increase in children coming to hospital and parents asking for advice on how to care for their unwell children.

During the last year, there has been a remarkable reduction in children with respiratory, stomach bugs and infections that cause high temperature (fever) as there are many young children who have never been exposed to many common viruses. This means that parents have not seen their children with these symptoms before and do not know what to do or when to worry.

As we interact more with other people and infections rise, it is vital that parents know how to manage common complaints, recognise severe symptoms that need treatment and know what to do if they have concerns.

Childhood illness is normal and a vital part of developing a mature immune system, but the spread of many unwanted infections can be prevented through these simple actions:

wash hands frequently

wash and wipe toys and shared surfaces regularly

keep infected children at home until symptoms have improved

keep newborn babies (who are particularly vulnerable) away from people with colds or flu

avoid smoking around your child and do not let others smoke around them

Useful resources

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

Respiratory illness (bronchiolitis) is increasing in children as restrictions ease and people mix more, with cases higher than usual for this time of year and further increases expected over winter months.

Parents are encouraged to look out for symptoms of severe respiratory infection in at-risk children, including a high temperature of 37.8°C or above (fever), a dry and persistent cough, difficulty feeding, rapid or noisy breathing (wheezing).

For the majority of children, these illnesses will not be serious and they will soon recover following rest and plenty of fluids. Most cases of bronchiolitis (common respiratory infection) are not serious and clear up within 2 to 3 weeks, but parents should contact their GP or call NHS 111 if:

Their child struggles to breath

Their child has taken less than half their usual amount during the last 2 or 3 feeds, or they have had a dry nappy for 12 hours or more

The child has a persistent high temperature of 37.8C or above

Some children under 2, especially those born prematurely or with a heart condition, can suffer more serious consequences from these common respiratory infections.

Dial 999 or go to A&E if:

your baby is having difficulty breathing.

your baby's tongue or lips are blue.

there are long pauses in your baby's breathing.

Find out more about the symptoms and what to do here.

For simple advice on what to do and what to look for download this bronchiolitis advice sheet (PDF).

Diarrhoea and vomiting

Diarrhoea and vomiting are common in children and babies. They're often caused by a stomach bug and should stop in a few days. You can usually treat your child at home and can speak to your pharmacist about the best way to care for your child. The most important thing is to have lots of fluids to avoid dehydration.

In adults and children:

diarrhoea usually stops within 5 to 7 days

vomiting usually stops in 1 or 2 days

For the majority of children, these illnesses will not be serious and they will soon recover following rest and plenty of fluids, but parents should contact their GP or call NHS 111 if:

you're worried about a baby under 12 months

your child stops breast or bottle feeding while they're ill

a child under 5 years has signs of dehydration - such as fewer wet nappies

your child (over 5 years) still has signs of dehydration after using oral rehydration sachets

your child keeps being sick and cannot keep fluid down

your child has bloody diarrhoea or bleeding from the bottom

your child has diarrhoea for more than 7 days or vomiting for more than 2 days

Call 999 or go to A&E if your child:

vomits blood or has vomit that looks like ground coffee

has green or yellow-green vomit

might have swallowed something poisonous

has a stiff neck and pain when looking at bright lights

has a sudden, severe headache or stomach ache

To prevent the spread of bugs that cause diarrhoea and/or vomiting it is important to keep children home from school until they have not been sick or had diarrhoea for at least 2 days.

Find out more about the symptoms and what to do here.

Find out more about common causes of stomach ache here.

For simple advice on what to do and what to look for download this diarrhoea and vomiting advice sheet (PDF).

High temperature (fever)

A high temperature is very common in young children. The temperature usually returns to normal within 3 or 4 days. A normal temperature in babies and children is about 36.4C, but this can vary slightly from child to child.

A high temperature is 38C or more.

A high temperature is the body's natural response to fighting infections like coughs and colds. Many things can cause a high temperature in children, from common childhood illnesses like chickenpox and tonsillitis, to vaccinations.

For the majority of children, these infections will not be serious and they will soon recover following rest and plenty of fluids, but parents should contact their GP or call NHS 111 if your child:

is under 3 months old and has a temperature of 38C or higher, or you think they have a high temperature

is 3 to 6 months old and has a temperature of 39C or higher, or you think they have a high temperature

has other signs of illness, such as a rash, as well as a high temperature

has a high temperature that's lasted for 5 days or more

does not want to eat, or is not their usual self and you're worried

has a high temperature that does not come down with paracetamol

is dehydrated - such as nappies that are not very wet, sunken eyes, and no tears when they're crying

Call 999 or go to A&E if your child:

has a stiff neck

has a rash that does not fade when you press a glass against it (use the "glass test" from Meningitis Now)

is bothered by light

has a fit (febrile seizure) for the first time (they cannot stop shaking)

has unusually cold hands and feet

has blue, pale or blotchy skin, lips or tongue

has a weak, high-pitched cry that's not like their normal cry

is drowsy and hard to wake

is extremely agitated (does not stop crying) or is confused

finds it hard to breathe and sucks their stomach in under their ribs

is not responding like they normally do, or is not interested in feeding or normal activities

Find out more about the symptoms and what to do here.

For simple advice on what to look for and what to do download this fever advice sheet (PDF).

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We are seeing an increase in children coming to hospital and parents asking for advice on how to care for their unwell children. During the last year, there has been a remarkable reduction in children with respiratory, stomach bugs and infections that cause high temperature (fever) as there are many young children who have never been exposed to many common viruses.

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When should I burp my baby?

There are no rules on when you should burp your baby, some babies need burping during their feed, some after. Look for clues – if your baby seems uncomfortable while feeding, have a little burping break. If they seem fine while feeding, wait until they've finished. Your baby will let you know!

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Skip to main content

Breastfeeding takes practice. It takes time to work out which positions feel best - try them all out to see which feels best.

Burping your baby

Winding, or burping your baby, is an important part of feeding. When your baby swallows, air bubbles can become trapped in their tummy and cause a lot of discomfort. Some babies find it easy to burp, while others need a helping hand.

When should I burp my baby?

There are no rules on when you should burp your baby, some babies need burping during their feed, some after. Look for clues - if your baby seems uncomfortable while feeding, have a little burping break. If they seem fine while feeding, wait until they've finished. Your baby will let you know!

Did you know?

Your baby may bring some milk up while burping, so have a burp cloth or muslin square ready (this is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about).

What's the best position to burp my baby?

Support your baby's head and neck, make sure their tummy and back is nice and straight (not curled up), and rub or pat their back gently. You don't need to spend ages burping your baby, a couple of minutes should be enough.

There are a few ways to burp your baby. Try them all out and see which works best - or use a combination:

Over your shoulder

With your baby's chin resting on your shoulder, support the head and shoulder area with one hand, and gently rub and pat your baby's back. It might help to walk around as you are doing this.

Sitting on your lap

Sit your baby on your lap facing away from you. Place the palm of your hand flat against their chest and support their chin and jaw (don't put any pressure on the throat area). Lean your baby forwards slightly and with your free hand, gently rub or pat your baby's back.

Lying across your lap

Lie your baby across your lap face down. Supporting their chin (don't put any pressure on the throat area), use your free hand to gently rub or pat your baby's back.

Breastfeeding Friend from Start4life

The Breastfeeding Friend, a digital tool from Start4Life, has lots of useful information and expert advice to share with you - and because it's a digital tool, you can access it 24 / 7.

What if my baby won't burp?

If these methods don't work and your baby shows signs of trapped wind (crying, arched back, drawing legs into tummy, clenched fists), try lying them on their back and gently massaging their tummy. Also move your baby's legs back and forth - like they're riding a bicycle. If this doesn't work, talk to your health visitor, they'll be able to advise you on the best thing to do.

For confidential breastfeeding information and support, call the National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212. Lines are open 9:30am to 9:30pm every day.

Sign up now for our pregnancy, baby and toddler guide

Get personalised emails for trusted NHS advice, videos and tips on your pregnancy week by week, birth and parenthood.
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Burping your baby will get rid of the air they have swallowed while drinking milk. Find out more about burping tips and best positions

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Skip to main content Breastfeeding takes practice. It takes time to work out which positions feel best - try them all out to see which feels best. Winding, or burping your baby, is an important part of feeding. When your baby swallows, air bubbles can become trapped in their tummy and cause a lot of discomfort.

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Making night times easier and daytimes more enjoyable with your baby

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Making night times easier and daytimes more enjoyable with your baby

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At some point during their baby's first months of life, many parents wonder whether there is something they could - or should - be doing to 'help' their baby sleep longer, deeper, better, or through the night.

BASIS provide reliable, evidence based information to support parents navigating the complex and often contradictory world of advice around sleep.

How Babies Sleep – BASIS (basisonline.org.uk)

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The 'Magic Number' and Long-Term Milk Production (Parts I and II) - Nancy Mohrbacher

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Going back to work or education can be easier
when you know your child is well cared for.

For breastfeeding mums, providing your milk gives your baby extra immune support whilst you're apart, and is a lovely way to reconnect when you're back together.

Protecting your milk supply means you can carry on providing all the milk your baby needs.

You can talk with your health visitor or breastfeeding supporter, or contact the Baby Feeding Helpline to talk through your options and make a plan that's right for you and your little one.

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Breast storage capacity. This is the amount of milk in a woman's breasts when they are at their fullest each day and this amount can vary greatly among mothers. Breast storage capacity affects how many times every 24 hours a woman's breasts need to be drained well of milk-either by breastfeeding or expression-to maintain her milk production. When her breasts become full, this sends her body the signal to make milk slower. In other words, "drained breasts make milk faster" and "full breasts make milk slower." The amount of milk needed to slow milk production will be much greater in a woman with a large breast storage capacity, so she can remove her milk fewer times a day without her milk production decreasing

The "magic number." This refers to the number of times each day a mother's breasts need to be well drained of milk to keep her milk production stable. Due to differences in breast storage capacity, some mothers' "magic number" may be as few as 4-5 or as many as 9-10. But when a mother's total number of breast drainings (breastfeedings plus milk expressions) dips below her "magic number," her milk production slows.

Daily totals. Many of the employed breastfeeding mothers I help by phone are diligent about maintaining their number of milk expressions at work, but often, as the months pass, they breastfeed less and less at home. With this change in routine, they may drop below their "magic number," which causes a dip in milk production.

Recently, as I asked one employed mother with decreasing milk production about her daily routine, she told me that her baby was sleeping in a swing all night. She discovered that in the swing he did not wake at night to feed, so she was sleeping on the couch in her living room next to the swing and waking every hour to check on him. I told her that eliminating those nighttime breastfeedings was the likely cause of her decreased milk production and I asked if she thought returning to breastfeeding at night might mean more sleep for her as well as more milk for her baby.

More breastfeeding when together means less expressed milk needed. The amount of milk per day babies need between 1 and 6 months stays remarkably stable, on average between 25 and 35 oz. (750-1050 mL) per day. By thinking of the 24-hour-day as a whole, it becomes obvious that the more times each day the baby breastfeeds directly, the less expressed milk will be needed while mother and baby are apart. But many mothers don't realize that dropping breastfeedings at home and encouraging baby to sleep more at night adds to the amount of expressed milk their baby needs during the day. Understanding these basic dynamics can go a long way in helping mothers meet their long-term breastfeeding goals.

In response to the previous post, "The 'Magic Number' and Long-Term Milk Production," a reader of this blog wrote: "I have a 6-week-old and just returned to work. I pump once every 3 hours and am pumping more than enough milk for my baby. But I am fearful of pumping less. Given my son's eating routine is still getting established and will likely change still, how do I determine my 'magic number?'"

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The 'Magic Number' and Long-Term Milk Production (Parts I and II) - Nancy Mohrbacher

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In my last blog post , I told a military mother who had returned to work at six weeks postpartum that she was making as much milk as her thriving baby would ever need. To meet her breastfeeding goal of one year, I told her, "all she had to do was maintain her milk production."

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Good news! Slowly, and safely, groups are starting up.

Mother to mother support groups provide important peer support as well as 1-1 help if needed with feeding your baby.

LLL East London Meet

2nd Monday of the month, 10:00am to 12:00pm  at 11th Oliver Thomas Children's Centre. Any questions, please contact 07970 75762.  Please book here:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeMRwhKEYFL4H0gRj3Am3kqj3EuC03RlG1o3zRKRMXaVW1WoA/viewform

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Introducing formula can reduce your milk supply. If you are thinking about giving your baby formula milk, chat with your health visiting team or call the helpline for support and information about safe bottle feeding and protecting your milk supply.

Some mothers express their milk, sometimes as a way to increase milk supply, or if they cannot be there to breastfeed baby. Milk can be stored for 5 days at the back of the fridge, and up to 6 months in the freezer. It is generally advised to wait 4-6 weeks before introducing a bottle to let baby learn to breastfeed, and milk supply to establish well.

Expressing and storing breast milk - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

If your baby cannot be exclusively breastfed, they will need a formula milk until they are 12 months. First stage is recommended: any brand, it really doesn’t matter which as they are all similar – there’s lots of helpful information in this booklet: Infant milks – a simple guide

Guide to bottle feeding leaflet provides information about which formula milk to choose, preparing bottles, and responsive, paced feeding - how to hold your baby for feeding and when to feed your baby.

Bottle Feeding assessment:
UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative - Bottle Feeding Assessment

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Using a responsive, paced bottle feeding technique can improve experience and outcomes for all bottle fed babies and can additionally help breastfed babies who need to have a bottle to combine the two.

https://youtu.be/KY8ct80VqaE

https://www.nct.org.uk/sites/default/files/related_documents/Bottle-feeding for breastfed babies FINAL WITHOUT BLEED.pdf

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Many mothers have concerns about having low milk supply, for most mothers this is not the case. The only signs that can indicate not enough milk transfer for baby, are: inadequate weight gain and insufficient poos and wees.

If baby needs more milk, for most mothers, attention to position and attachment and increasing frequency and duration of breastfeeding as well as skin to skin and possibly expressing as well,  will increase milk supply. Sometimes a supplement of expressed breast milk, donor milk or infant formula  is suggested.

Rarely, some mothers experience low milk supply due to an underlying clinical issue such as surgery to breasts or brain; hormonal issues such as PCOS can sometimes affect supply; retained placenta or significant blood loss after delivery can also sometimes affect supply; insufficient breast tissue development during puberty can also impact milk production for some mothers.

For more info, including about medication and herbs:

https://breastfeeding.support/how-to-make-more-breast-milk/

Breastfeeding Assessment Tools - Baby Friendly Initiative (unicef.org.uk)

https://www.laleche.org.uk/my-baby-needs-more-milk/

https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng75

https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/maximising-breastmilk-and-re-lactation-guidance/amp/

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/breastfeeding-is-baby-getting-enough-milk/

https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/galactagogues/

https://abm.me.uk/breastfeeding-information/relactation

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When you first start breastfeeding, you may wonder if your baby is getting enough milk.
It may take a little while before you feel confident your baby is getting what they need.

"Your baby will generally let you know, but wet and dirty nappies are a good indication, as well as hearing your baby swallow," says Zoe Ralph, an infant feeding worker in Manchester and Fellow of the Institute of Health Visiting.

Exclusive breastfeeding (breast milk only) is recommended for around the first 6 months of your baby's life. Introducing bottle feeds will reduce the amount of breast milk you produce.

See Unicef's checklist How can I tell if breastfeeding is going well? (PDF, 77kb) for more guidance.

Credit:

IAN BODDY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

https://www.sciencephoto.com/media/294115/view

Signs your baby is well attached

Your baby has a wide mouth and a large mouthful of breast.

Your baby's chin is touching your breast, their lower lip is rolled down (you can't always see this) and their nose isn't squashed against your breast.

You don't feel any pain in your breasts or nipples when your baby is feeding, although the first few sucks may feel strong.

You can see more of the dark skin around your nipple (areola) above your baby's top lip than below their bottom lip.

Signs your baby is getting enough milk

Your baby starts feeds with a few rapid sucks followed by long, rhythmic sucks and swallows with occasional pauses.

You can hear and see your baby swallowing.

Your baby's cheeks stay rounded, not hollow, during sucking.

They seem calm and relaxed during feeds.

Your baby comes off the breast on their own at the end of feeds.

Their mouth looks moist after feeds.

Your baby appears content and satisfied after most feeds.

Your breasts feel softer after feeds.

Your nipple looks more or less the same after feeds - not flattened, pinched or white.

You may feel sleepy and relaxed after feeds.

Other signs your baby is feeding well

Your baby gains weight steadily after the first 2 weeks - it's normal for babies to lose some of their birth weight in the first 2 weeks.

They appear healthy and alert when they're awake.

From the fourth day, they should do at least 2 soft, yellow poos the size of a £2 coin every day for the first few weeks.

From day 5 onwards, wet nappies should start to become more frequent, with at least 6 heavy, wet nappies every 24 hours. In the first 48 hours, your baby is likely to have only 2 or 3 wet nappies.

It can be hard to tell if disposable nappies are wet. To get an idea, take an unused nappy and add 2 to 4 tablespoons of water. This will give you an idea of what to look and feel for.

Ways to boost your breast milk supply

Ask your midwife, health visitor or breastfeeding specialist to watch your baby feeding. They can offer guidance and support to help you properly position and attach your baby to the breast.

Avoid giving your baby bottles of formula for the first 6 months or a dummy until breastfeeding is well established.

Feed your baby as often as they want and for as long as they want.

Expressing some breast milk after feeds once breastfeeding is established will help build up your supply.

Offer both breasts at each feed and alternate which breast you start with.

Keep your baby close to you and hold them skin to skin. This will help you spot signs your baby is ready to feed early on, before they start crying.

See more ways to boost your milk supply.

Things that can affect your milk supply

Poor attachment and positioning.

Not feeding your baby often enough.

Drinking alcohol and smoking while breastfeeding - these can both interfere with your milk production.

Previous breast surgery, particularly if your nipples have been moved.

Having to spend time away from your baby after the birth - for example, because they were premature: "Frequent gentle hand expression will help," Zoe Ralph advises.

Illness in you or your baby.

Giving your baby bottles of formula or a dummy before breastfeeding is well established.

Using nipple shields - although this may be the only way to feed your baby with damaged nipples and is preferable to stopping feeding.

Some medications, including dopamine, ergotamine and pyridoxine. Read more about breastfeeding and medicines.

Anxiety, stress or depression.

Your baby having a tongue tie that restricts the movement of their tongue.

With skilled help, lots of these problems can be sorted out. If you have concerns about how much milk your baby is getting, it's important to ask for help early. Speak to your midwife, health visitor or a breastfeeding specialist. They can also tell you where you can get further support.

"They can offer suggestions to make sure your baby is properly positioned and attached at the breast and is feeding well," says Zoe Ralph.

Got a breastfeeding question?

Sign in to Facebook and message the Start4Life Breastfeeding Friend chatbot for fast, friendly, trusted NHS advice anytime, day or night.

Video: Is my baby getting enough milk?

In this video, a health visitor talks about the signs your baby is getting enough milk.

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Breastfeeding: is my baby getting enough milk?

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When you first start breastfeeding, you may wonder if your baby is getting enough milk. It may take a little while before you feel confident your baby is getting what they need.

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A video that reassures you about the signs to know your baby is getting enough milk

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Is Your Baby Getting Enough Milk - Video - Global Health Media Project

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A common concern of a new mother is whether her baby is getting enough milk. This video shows signs to tell whether the baby is feeding well.

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Oral Health - Start those healthy oral health habits from the first teeth your baby has. Find out about where you can register with a dentist for your baby.

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We understand that oral health plays a vital role in our daily lives, affecting our ability to eat, speak, and feel confident. Through this web page, we aim to empower you with the knowledge and tools necessary to take care of your oral hygiene and prevent dental problems.

Dental Care Pathway for Children with SEND in North East London

Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust , North East London Paediatric and Adult Special Care Dental Services provide dental care for children and adults in North East London who would not be able to access or accept care from high street dentists. This could be because of social, behavioural, psychological, medical or physical issues.

If a child attends a mainstream school, we accept referrals into our service from any health, education or social service professionals eg the SENCo.

If a child attends a SEND school, in this case parents can refer directly into our service themselves.

Not all children with SEND require our services. An assessment appointment is booked to establish whether the child meets the criteria for acceptance into our service, and we may plan for a "shared care" approach with a high street dentist. We may also refer onwards to a hospital paediatric dental department if general anaesthetic is required for treatment.
How to make a referral into our service
You can make a referral into our paediatric dental service online using the following link: London Paediatric Dental referral form | Kent Community Health NHS Foundation Trust

Supervised toothbrushing and parent workshops

Kent Community Health Foundation Trust provides supervised tooth brushing training and parent workshops promoting Oral Health to early years providers in Newham. This is designed to increase knowledge and gain confidence to share key oral health messages and learn how to prevent dental decay. This also includes specific Oral Health advice for SEN children. To organise supervised tooth brushing training or parent engagement workshops for your early years setting please e-mail: L.Zinyengere@nhs.net

Where to find a Dentist?

There is no need to register with a dentist in the same way as with a GP because you are not bound to a catchment area. Simply find a dental surgery that is convenient for you, whether it's near your home or work, and phone them to see if there are any appointments available.
You can search for an NHS dentist on the NHS website.
Dental surgeries will not always have the capacity to take on new NHS patients. You may have to join a waiting list, look for a different dentist who is taking on new NHS patients, or be seen privately.

Once you find a dental surgery, you may have to fill in a registration form at your first visit, which is so they can add you to their patient database. This does not mean you have guaranteed access to an NHS dental appointment in the future.
Problems finding a dentist
If after contacting several dental surgeries you still cannot find a dentist accepting NHS patients, call NHS England's Customer Contact Centre on 0300 311 2233.
Dental emergency and out-of-hours care
If you think you need urgent care, contact your usual dentist as some surgeries offer emergency dental slots and will provide care if clinically necessary.

You can also contact NHS 111, who can put you in touch with an urgent dental service.

Do not contact a GP, as they will not be able to offer urgent or emergency dental care.
When to go to A&E
Only visit A&E in serious circumstances, such as:

severe pain

heavy bleeding

injuries to the face, mouth or teeth

If you're not sure whether you should go to A&E, contact NHS 111, who will be able to advise you.

Healthy Teeth Tips for Children

Start brushing your baby's teeth as soon as the first milk tooth breaks through (usually at around 6 months, but it can be earlier or later)

Brush your child's teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste containing no less than 1000ppm fluoride. Brushing should be supervised by a parent or carer

The best times to brush teeth are in the morning and last thing at night

Spit out after brushing - do not rinse with water

Visit a dentist for a dental check by age one or when the first tooth erupts

more information visit https://www.bspd.co.uk/Patients/PatientInfo British Society Paediatric Dentistry - A practical guide to Children's Teeth

Choosing healthy drinks and snacks

Try to avoid sugary or fizzy drinks. Plain milk and water are the best drinks for children's teeth

Try to limit the amount of sugary foods offered to your child. Choose healthier snacks such as fresh fruit

Choose sugar free medicines where possible

For more examples on Tooth Friendly Drinks and Snacks please visit Tooth Friendly Drinks and Snacks - Early Start Group

Fluoride Varnish in Schools

Fluoride, when applied to the teeth by a dentist, helps to strengthen children's teeth.

Fluoride varnish is offered annually to all children in Newham who are in state maintained nursery, reception and Year 1.

To sign up for the fluoride-varnishing programme, you will need to complete the consent form that is provided to you by your school.

Dental fluoride varnish application at your child's school from Kent Community Health on Vimeo.

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Newham Families Advice and Support | Oral Health

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We understand that oral health plays a vital role in our daily lives, affecting our ability to eat, speak, and feel confident. Through this web page, we aim to empower you with the knowledge and tools necessary to take care of your oral hygiene and...

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Oral health Choosing a cup for your baby

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Oral health Choosing a cup for your baby

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Choosing a cup that supports your baby's oral health

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Choosing cups for babies and toddlers | Information, Baby & toddler articles & support | NCT

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Once they’re old enough, you can start encouraging your baby to drink from a cup or beaker. Here we discuss your options and when to start.

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Lots of resources from Chelsea & Westminster Hospital