Margaret Maternity

Pregnancy Bag Checklist for Giving Birth in Hospital

Margaret Maternity — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 16:45:15 +0000

Pregnancy Bag Checklist for Giving Birth in Hospital

If you are an expectant mother due to give birth in the next few months, it’s a wise idea to start thinking about creating a pregnancy bag checklist.

The chances are, your baby will decide to arrive at a time you least expect it, furthermore, you may not be at home when birthing pains commence.

By making sure you have a fully packed pregnancy bag that is easy to find at home, you can then concentrate on your labour.

The pregnancy bag checklist is also a useful list of items to have at hand if you are planning on giving birth at home.

It’s also a good idea to have a packed bag for a birthing partner, make sure the two bags are kept separate, to avoid any confusion during labour!

The following checklist is broken down into three categories:

Your Labour Bag Checklist

Here’s a list of everything you should pack in your labour bag, to help you get through the birth of your new baby…

Your birth plan and maternity notes
Several nightdresses or t-shirts
Slippers or thick socks
A lightweight dressing gown
Lip balm
Water spray or sponge
Snacks and drinks
Maternity pads
TENS machine (optional)
Favourite music
Hair clips and a brush
Tissues or wet wipes
Your mobile phone and charger

Postnatal Hospital Bag Checklist

There are a few things you will need for both you and your new baby so it’s worth packing these in your hospital bag too!

Going-home clothes for you - loose & comfortable
Nursing bras – two or three
Breast pads – just in case you have any leaks!
Maternity pads – at least two packs
Big, comfy underwear
Open-fronted nightie – to enable support for breastfeeding
Toiletries – wash items, toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant

Hospital Bag Checklist for your Baby

Here’s what you’ll need to pack in your hospital bag for your newborn baby or babies:

Baby clothes
Muslins or bibs – useful for mop ups
Nappies, baby toiletries and cotton wool
Baby blanket or shawl – for when you leave the hospital
Baby car seat – this is essential for the journey home after the birth

In Conclusion

The baby items listed, should cover every eventuality for when you are going into hospital to give birth.

It is natural to feel nervous about giving birth, particularly if this is your first childbirth experience.

Are you feeling nervous about your pregnancy and wondering how you will cope post-birth?

I provide online support for the parents of newborn and infant babies, the online clinic is a great way to benefit from the experience of a professional and qualified Maternity Nurse.

The post Pregnancy Bag Checklist for Giving Birth in Hospital appeared first on Margaret Maternity.

Cough and Cold Symptoms in Young Babies

Margaret Maternity — Wed, 26 Oct 2022 10:42:49 +0000

Cough and Cold Symptoms in Young Babies

As the nights draw in and winter edges closer, the season of cough and cold symptoms invariably begin to set in.

It is a natural instinct for a parent to want to protect the baby from germs as much as possible.

Invariably though, the virus can easily be transmitted through close contact and air particles.

As a result of this, it’s likely that at some stage in the first 12-18 months a young baby is likely to show the symptoms of a common cold.

Cough & Cold Symptoms in a Newborn or Infant Baby

Symptoms of the common cold present in the same way as a child or adult, the following symptoms are normally visible:

Runny or Congested Nose

Nasal congestion is clear in appearance initially, turning to grey, green or yellow in appearance.

A runny or congested nose often decreases the baby’s ability to breathe naturally.

This can be uncomfortable for a new-born or infant baby to deal with an cause irritability and frustration.

Decreased Appetite

Due to an increase in nasal congestion, a baby will often experience a decreased appetite.

Whether breast or bottle feeding, keep your baby as upright as possible.

It is advisable to feed your newborn or infant baby little and often during the course of cough and cold symptoms.

A High Temperature

A fever of 37.5°C or above is often a symptom of coughs and colds in babies.

Monitor both your baby and room temperature on a regular basis.

Contact your GP or NHS Helpline if your baby is under 3 months old and has a temperature exceeding 38°C degrees.

Irittable and Unsettled Emotions

With the combination of blocked nasals and increased body temperature, a baby can become increasingly unsettled with cough and cold symptoms.

Subsequently, this can affect feeding and sleeping patterns and a very tired and frustrated baby.

Cough & Cold Treatment in a Newborn or Infant Baby

Fluid intake – The amount of fluid your baby is taking on board each day should be carefully taken into account. Regular liquid intake is important to avoid dehydration, something that young babies are at more risk of, compared to adults.

Medication – Paracetamol, often called Calpol can be administered to babies from two months of age, it is important to wait at least 4 to 6 hours between administering doses of paracetamol.

You should not exceed more than 4 doses of paracetamol in 24 hours.

Nasal Treatment – Running a cool-water humidifier in your baby’s room can help to ease nasal congestion.

Ensure that the water is changed daily, following the manufacturer’s recommended guidelines.

Furthermore, your GP may recommend saline drops for nasal congestion and help with improving a baby’s breathing.

This can help to loosen thick nasal mucus, in turn helping with improved breathing.

Monitoring Baby’s Temperature – If you suspect your baby is running a higher-than-normal temperature, it’s a good idea to check the baby’s temperature with a thermometer.

With a quick result, this can help you work out whether you should seek medical advice.

Ideally, you need a digital thermometer to get a fast, accurate reading.

You can buy these online or from the most well-known pharmacies on the High Street.

Once you have purchased a thermometer, it’s time to take your baby’s temperature. It is advisable to use the following technique:

Hold the baby comfortably on your knee and put the thermometer in the baby’s armpit – always use the thermometer in the armpit with children under 5 years.

Gently, but firmly, hold their arm against their body to keep the thermometer in place for however long it says in the manufacturer’s instructions – usually about 15 seconds.

Some digital thermometers beep when they’re ready. The display on the thermometer will then show your child’s temperature.

Always contact your GP or call 111 if your baby’s temperature is 38C or higher, under 3 months of age.

Or, your baby’s temperature is 39C or higher and 3 to 6 months of age.

When to Consult Your GP or NHS Helpline

The following NHS Guidelines state that if you spot any of the following signs or symptoms in your baby you should contact them via NHS 111 immediately.

your baby is less than 3 months old and has a temperature of 38 °C or above

your child is aged 3 months or older and has a temperature of 39 °C or above

your baby has fewer wet nappies, nappies that seem drier than usual, or a dry nappy for 12 hours or more

your baby’s having difficulty feeding

your baby’s taking less than half their usual amount during their last 2 or 3 feeds

you think your baby may have coronavirus (COVID-19) symptoms

If you’re very concerned about your baby, trust your instincts and phone your GP or 111 for advice straight away.

In Conclusion

Seeing your baby go through the symptoms of a cold can sometimes feel distressing, and bring about a sense of hopelessness.

More so, when the baby is running at a higher-than-normal temperature and breathing is laboured.

If you are currently pregnant and planning the arrival for your newborn baby, you may find this article Bringing Your Newborn Baby Home useful.

The post Cough and Cold Symptoms in Young Babies appeared first on Margaret Maternity.

My Journey to Become a Maternity Nurse

Margaret Maternity — Sun, 28 Aug 2022 16:54:40 +0000

Becoming a Maternity Nurse, a Personal Journey

My Journey to becoming a qualified and experienced Maternity Nurse has been quite the experience!

It wasn’t a planned career path as such, although I had qualified as a General Nurse in 1990.

As a young girl I knew I wanted to work in a caring capacity.

However, the change from general nursing to a career as a Maternity Nurse developed following a personal experience.

In 1998 I gave birth to my first child, a boy who weighed in at just 3lb and arrived x weeks before he was due to join us.

As many other parents of premature babies will testify, this was an incredibly stressful and worrying time.

A bit about me, since 2009 I’ve been providing successful outcomes for parents and babies.

Subsequently, creating a happy and settled environment.

My training includes: Maternity Nurse with Babyem, Birth & Postnatal Doula with Nurturing Birth and DONA International.

Initially I trained to become a Registered General Nurse, prior to becoming a Maternity Nurse.

Additionally, I’m a Childbirth Educator with CAPPA and Certified Baby Massage Instructor with IAIM.

Specialist support is provided with breast and bottle feeding, sleep, development expectations, the daily routines. maternal and paternal mental health.

Furthermore, I provide in-home support for parents and a range of remote support services via e-mail, telephone and online consultations.

My Maternity Nurse Journey

As far back as I can recall I have always felt a strong desire to care for and support people.

With this intention, from a young age, I wanted to train as a nurse.

Subsequently, in 1991 I qualified as a Registered General Nurse, at Southmead Hospital in Bristol.

Initially I worked on an acute medical ward, palliative care and care of the elderly.

As a result, I enjoyed caring for patients and supporting their families.

Early on in my nursing career I was promoted to a more senior role as a nursing team lead.

As such, this included liaising with a multi-disciplinary team of clinical staff.

Additionally, I was supporting junior staff and ensuring a high standard of patient care.

During the years that followed I trained as a Nursery Nurse gaining a BTEC National Diploma in Childhood Studies.

My first role was establishing and running the baby unit for a new day-care facility.

Meanwhile, I became Deputy Manager of a Preschool.

The role included hearing and vision screening as part of the School Health Nursing team.

Furthermore working as a Special Educational Needs teaching assistant.

The Turning Point

The birth of my son in 1998 at 31 weeks was the turning point in my journey to supporting families with a new baby.

Despite my training and experience in Nursing and Early Years, I felt ill-prepared for the transition of becoming a parent.

Subsequently, I was often anxious and unsure of myself and there seemed to be so much conflicting advice.

Following the birth of my daughter, this time at 35 weeks, I began to research postnatal support.

My instinct was to make families feel nurtured and supported in a role where I could utilise my training and experience.

I came across the role of Postnatal Doula, ‘Mothering the Mother’. The idea was of not only providing practical and emotional support.

Likewise, one that was based on an evidence-based approach.

It was important to me that I was able to provide families with up to date research and options.

As opposed to the often-conflicting advice that I had experienced as a new parent.

Therefore, in 2009 my journey preparing families for birth and supporting them postnatally began.

Training

I trained as a Birth & Postnatal Doula firstly with Nurturing Birth then after a move to Canada in 2011, with DONA International.

I had the privilege of preparing women and their partners for birth and supporting them postnatally in the UK and Canada.

These are two very different maternal healthcare systems.

As I gained experience supporting families with newborns, more training followed.

Maternity Nursing with Babyem, Night Specialist with the Child Sleep Institute in Toronto and Childbirth Educator with CAPPA.

My work in the field of maternity continued to grow and I started to teach private childbirth preparation classes.

The focus was on the first month with a newborn as well as preparing for birth.

I continued to attend births, offering practical and emotional support to women and their partners during labour.

It was an incredible privilege to be included and witness the birth of so many babies and support people’s transition into parenthood.

My postnatal work grew and I loved the nurturing part of my role, helping parents gain confidence and build a relationship with their baby.

Establishing feeding, understanding baby’s cues and cries, implementing settling techniques and time to recover from the birth.

These were just some of the things I was able to offer families. As such, helping ease the first few weeks and sometimes months with a baby.

I started to receive calls asking for help troubleshooting feeding or sleep concerns with older babies.

A home visit would sometimes be useful to get to the root of the issue.

Similarly, at other times, a phone consultation and a written plan would be enough to turn the situation around.

I loved the opportunity to use my education and experience in this way.

Working with Maternity Experts

In 2012 I had the privilege of working alongside Susan Martensen, PDT(DONA), CLC.

I helped to create and facilitate a drop in programme for Mums with postnatal depression and anxiety.

And as such, the aim was to offer a warm, safe, non-judgmental environment.

One in which Mums could come together to share their concerns and challenges. Furthermore, receive support and access local resources as well as building connections.

This programme developed to include a separate support group for Dads and partners.

I learnt so much from being part of this programme, but two things stand out for me. Firstly, Susan taught me that listening is as important as doing.

Listening is the start of encouraging someone to share and release their anxieties without fear of judgement.

Additionally, it offers the opportunity to feel heard and have feelings validated.

When we listen we also have the opportunity to observe. This is so powerful as we look at body language, tone of voice and an insight into any underlying concerns.

From this, we can gain an understanding of the bigger picture and what support, tools and strategies may be useful.

Secondly, Susan and I offered knowledge and experience. However, the most powerful element was the support, trust and community built between parents.

Families formed friendships, offered support on a practical and emotional level and would meet socially outside of the group.

Empowering Parents

Since then I have supported hundreds of families as they transition into parenthood.

Providing the necessary skills and confidence to parent in a style that fits the family dynamic.

Please feel free to take a look at some of the testimonials on the Happy Parents page.

The post My Journey to Become a Maternity Nurse appeared first on Margaret Maternity.

Taking Your Baby Overseas for the First Time

Margaret Maternity — Tue, 09 Aug 2022 14:49:03 +0000

Taking Your Baby Overseas for the First Time

The thought of taking your baby overseas for the first time may well be a daunting one.

This is totally understandable with so many considerations to make.

As such, keeping your baby settled during a long journey is sure to be high on your agenda.

Therefore, to improve the chances of enjoying your first trip overseas with your baby it is wise to plan in advance.

Here are some useful things to consider when taking your baby overseas for the first time.

A Passport

Applying for your baby’s passport should be the first consideration above everything else.

After all, without a passport, overseas travel is not possible!

It’s not always easy to capture a photograph of your baby which meets passport standards.

There are apps available such as paspic.com which will review your baby’s photograph and ensure it fits the correct criteria.

A passport can be applied for via the post office online, this can take several weeks to arrive.

There is a fast-track process with additional costs.

You will need your baby’s birth certificate and if applicable, any court documents describing residency or parental responsibility.

Baby Food and Drink Supplies

It’s important to ensure you have food and drink to hand. Both during your journey and whilst you are overseas with your baby.

If your holiday or trip involves flying, it is wise to check what you are able to carry on to the plane in advance. Baby’s may feed more frequently as air quality can be dehydrating.

Feeding can also be comforting to help in the change in air pressure, especially during take-off and landing.

The following lists what you should be taking with you for the entirety of your stay:

Snacks
Ready-made formula
Bibs
Beakers and bottles
Bottle warmer
Sterilising equipment
A Breast Pump
Food pouches or jars
Hand-held blender
Plastic spoons, forks, and bowls

Baby Equipment for Bedtime

Prior to traveling do check with your accommodation provider that a travel cot is included.

Once you are on the plane try and adjust feeds/naps to the local time of the country you are visiting.

This will help your baby transition to the new time zone.

If it is, this is one less heavy item to have to pack, the following items should be considered before traveling overseas.

Travel cot (if not included in accommodation). A cot can also be booked for flights
Sling to settle your baby when walking up and down the aisle of the plane
Bedding
Night sleepwear
Overnight nappies
Night light (you will need the plug adapters too)
A Baby monitor
Blackout blinds
Lightweight foldable buggy which can be taken onto the plane and stored overhead

Baby Personal Care

Your toiletry bag will double in size once you start roaming with your child.

If you’re only going on a short-stay holiday, you can transfer large bottles of shower gel and shampoo into handy travel bottles.

It is worth having a change of clothes on the flight for yourselves in case baby is sick on you.

Sponge, shampoo, and body wash
Plenty of nappies
Nappy rash cream, nappy bags
Swim nappies
Wet Wipes
Hairbrush
Toothbrush and toothpaste (if applicable)

Protection From the Weather

Depending on your destination you will need to take weather conditions into account.

Whether you are going to a warmer or colder country than the UK, the following equipment should be carefully considered:

For warmer countries:

Sunblock
Aftersun cream
A Parasol for pram or buggy
UVA protection pop up beach tent
A Sun hat (or two)
Sunglasses (If applicable)
Insect repellent protection
UVA protection swimsuit

For cooler countries:

Hot water bottle with a safe covering
Cold weather hat and boots
Mittens
Baby leg warmers
Sufficient insulation for pram or buggy
Pram or buggy rain cover

Taking Your Baby Overseas Checklist

This checklist for traveling overseas with a baby does not include items that may be required for a newborn baby with additional needs.

Is your baby is currently having issues settling while you are planning to take your baby overseas?

Margaret Maternity provides a range of services to enable a greater quality of life for both babies and parents alike.

Find out more here about the Remote Maternity Clinic.

The post Taking Your Baby Overseas for the First Time appeared first on Margaret Maternity.

Bringing Your Newborn Baby Home

Margaret Maternity — Tue, 09 Aug 2022 13:36:07 +0000

Bringing Your Newborn Baby Home

Bringing your newborn baby home from the hospital can feel like a nervous time, particularly if it’s your first newborn.

It’s completely natural to feel anxious, however, help and support are readily available.

Planning in advance can help create a smoother transition as you adjust to life with your baby.

Here is a guide of useful information to bringing your newborn baby home from hospital:

Feeding Your Newborn Baby

Whether planning to breastfeed, bottle or combination feed, it is also worth thinking about how you are going to feed yourselves too!

In the first few days and weeks with your newborn your energy and focus will be on feeding and resting.

Consider preparing and freezing meals, setting up a food rota with friends and family or if your budget allows, ordering freshly prepared meals to freeze.

Healthy one handed snacks ( the other hand is holding the baby ) and water to keep you hydrated are necessary to maintain your energy levels.

Breastfeeding can mean you may be burning an extra 200 to 500 calories per day and regular nutritious food can help build your milk supply.

Research resources, professional support and local breastfeeding support before your baby arrives.

Investing in breastfeeding workshops in person or online is worth giving some serious thought.

The Breastfeeding Network offers excellent resources and support. You can chat with someone online or by phone.

Have a look to see if there is a breastfeeding drop-in group or breastfeeding peer support in your area.

Lactation Consultants are highly qualified to offer support with any breastfeeding challenges.

You may be considering bottle feeding with either formula or expressed breastmilk or a combination of the two.

Some bottles will be designed to try and reduce the amount of air your baby takes in when feeding.

All bottles should be BPA (Bisphenol A) free with some made from plastic and others, glass.

Teats will come in different flows; slow, medium and fast and may need to be replaced if they become scratched or marked.

It may be difficult to know which design of bottle may suit your baby at first and so it may be necessary to try a couple of different designs.

Clothing your Newborn Baby

Baby clothes come in many colours and designs, often an outfit is bought for your baby to wear when bringing your newborn baby home

A newborn can feed 8 to 12 times in 24 hours so there may be a few outfit changes from leaked nappies and milk spit-up.

Sleepsuits and vests are very practical in the first few weeks along with a hat and cardigans/pramsuit for when you eventually manage to venture outside!

Depending on how many times a week you are prepared to do some laundry, 4 -6 newborn sleepsuits and vests may be enough.

Your new baby will soon grow out of the newborn size so it is worth buying more 0-3 months clothes.

Layering is key to ensure your baby is comfortable and doesn’t become too hot.

Start with a vest and sleepsuit and check your room temperature is between 16 to 20 Celsius.

You can always add a blanket or swaddle as necessary; feeling the back of your baby’s neck can give you an indicator of how warm they are.

Nappies for your Newborn Baby

From experience, it is worth buying branded disposable nappies. They are usually very absorbent and so reduce the frequency of nappy rashes.

However, absorbency can mean that it is sometimes hard to know if your baby has a wet nappy.

Frequent wet nappies can be a good indicator that your baby is receiving enough milk.

Most brands of nappies have a wetness indicator which turns a strip from yellow to blue when the nappy is wet.

Nappy sizes are determined by weight and as you will be changing your baby’s nappy 8 to 10 times per day.

You may it is worth shopping around, and buying in bulk.

If you are considering cloth or biodegradable nappies it is still advisable to use disposable nappies.

At least during the first few weeks, while you adjust to life with a baby.

Bedding for your Newborn Baby

Whether choosing a moses basket, co-sleeper, crib or cot, make sure it has a firm, flat, waterproof mattress with no gaps around the side.

Sheets should be fitted and not bulky.

If using a blanket ensure it is tucked in at the side and no higher than your baby’s waist.

Swaddles with velcro or sleeping bags are also an option. Consider different togs for sleeping bags depending on the time of year.

Cot bumpers, pillows or any bulky bedding is not recommended and the area should be free of any toys when your baby is sleeping.

For more information on safe sleep please look at the Lullaby Trust guidelines.

Equipment

Baby equipment in terms of must-have and nice to have will differ in each home.

Breast Pumps

There is a wide range of Breast Pumps on the market. Many chemists will hire out a pump for a small monthly fee.

Pram

Purchasing a pram will probably be the most amount of money you will spend on one piece of equipment.

Therefore, it is certainly worth doing your research!

Here are some things you may want to consider:

● Your terrain! Is it robust enough to cope with potholes along a country lane or light enough to manoeuvre in and out of shops in a busy high street?

● Will you be regularly using public transport? Is it easy to collapse and light enough to carry on and off a bus or into a taxi?

● Will the pram fit easily into your car boot space?

● Does it have adjustable handles to adapt to you and your partner’s height?

● Will you be combining exercise with pushing the pram so may want to consider a jogging stroller?

● Do you want to invest in a pram/pushchair/car seat combination?

● Is there reversible seating for the pushchair or just facing forward?

● Accessories required such as buggy board attachment for older children, cup holders, sun parasol and rain covers.

A Playmat for your Newborn Baby

A playmat for a newborn baby is versatile, easy to clean and move around.

Furthermore, it provides an opportunity for a parent to have playtime with the baby in various locations around the home.

After the first couple of weeks at home, you will start to notice that your baby will stay awake for a little longer after feeding.

Placing your baby down on a playmat for 5-10 minutes before settling to sleep can be a gentle way.

A Car Seat for your Newborn Baby

When considering a car seat for your newborn, the NHS has a handy choosing a baby car seat guide.

Before your baby arrives, familiarise yourself with the car seat functions.

In particular, how to loosen and tighten the buckles and lift the car seat in and out of the car.

Manufacturers recommend that babies should not be in a car seat for more than two hours.

The Lullaby Trust has useful information on safe car seat travel with your baby.

A Sterilising Kit for your Newborn Baby

NHS guidelines recommend sterilising all feeding equipment until your baby is twelve months old.

There are an array of sterlisers on the market to suit your budget and circumstances.

Options range from immersing feeding equipment in water with Milton tablets, UV light or steam sterlisers.

Changing your Newborn Baby

If your home is on more than one level it’s a good idea to set up two changing areas.

This will save time and effort spent walking up and downstairs to change your baby’s nappy/clothes.

A basket or nappy caddy is ideal for storing items.

Moreover, each baby station should ideally contain the following items:

A changing mat
Two or three spare babygrows and vests
Wipes
Cotton Pads
Nappies
Nappy Cream
A Nappy Bin
Nappy Bags
Two small bowls for water (one for baby’s face and one for baby’s bottom)

Additionally, it’s a good idea to have a visual distraction for the baby to concentrate on whilst changing nappies/clothes.

Black and white fold-out books can be propped at the side of the changing mat. Although newborn vision is initially blurry, they will start to focus on bold shapes and contrasting colours.

And finally...

Aside from everything listed as must-haves in this blog, there are many other factors to consider too.

There will be family and friends keen to visit the new arrival.

And as such, it’s important to put yourself and your baby’s well-being first. Don’t feel pressurised into inviting visitors straight away.

Be clear with the number of people per visit and the length of time you expect them to stay.

The important thing is to have time to recover from giving birth and the opportunity to build a relationship with your baby.

Likewise finding time for your own personal self-care should be considered carefully.

Additionally, for your partner too, both as individuals and a couple.

This could be as simple as taking five minutes to savour a cup of coffee.

Connecting with a friend online or walking around the block listening to your favourite music.

Becoming a parent can feel like an overwhelming responsibility.

However, be sure to be kind to yourself. Furthermore, understand that while at times your journey as a parent feels tough.

You can be assured the rewards will follow.

Finally, you may find playing with your baby guide a useful read.

Margaret Maternity can assist with supporting you and your baby at home with an initial consultation and remote support.

The post Bringing Your Newborn Baby Home appeared first on Margaret Maternity.

Playing With Your Newborn Baby

Margaret Maternity — Tue, 09 Aug 2022 13:35:17 +0000

Playing With Your Newborn Baby

Playing with your newborn baby is certainly one of the more pleasurable aspects of becoming a parent.

To wait in anticipation for that first wide smile and to hear your baby giggle for the first time is a precious moment.

Essentially, play is key for your baby’s overall development, learning and wellbeing. It develops your baby’s verbal and non-verbal skills.

Additionally, it will teach your baby a variety of motor skills and help to grow their muscle strength.

According to research by the American Academy of Pediatrics, play enhances brain structure and function, allowing us to pursue goals and ignore distractions.

Why Playing With Your Newborn Baby Is Important

Playtime is central to your baby’s learning, well-being and confidence. Your baby will feel loved, happy and safe.

It will help your baby to develop both physical and social skills, similarly build confidence and encourage language and communication.

Here are some engaging ways in which you can play with your newborn baby:

Stretch, Pedal and Tickle

While laying your baby on a blanket, gently hold their hands while you move their arms up, out to the side, and around.

Give your baby’s toes a little squeeze and pedal their legs. Gentle massage and tickles from the bottom of their feet to the top of their head can offer fun for both parent and baby.

Singing to Your Baby

Your baby likes the familiar sound of your voice and takes great comfort from it.

You don’t need to sound as good as Adele!

A soft lullaby in the evening as the baby is settling, or something more uplifting coming from your playlist.

Singing to your baby is a soothing way of helping them to settle.

The familiarity of your voice is comforting and increases the attachment bond with you.

Babies instinctively react to the sound of your voice and respond by communicating their needs and feelings.

In the early weeks, a newborn will start to settle to a familiar voice.

An older baby may react by cooing which is their own way of singing and talking back to you.

Dancing With Your Baby

If there is one thing that babies love its motion; this is something you may already be familiar with.

Therefore why not slip on your sling or cradle your baby to your favourite tunes?

Dancing can be a welcome distraction, not only for an unsettled baby but for you too.

It promotes the release of feel-good endorphins, which help improve our mood when we’re tired or stressed.

Playing Peek-A-Boo

This activity is sure to bring your baby’s focus and create fun.

Watching Mummy or Daddy disappear underneath a towel, only to suddenly reappear again with a big smile.

This game is not only fun, but starts to teach your baby “object permanence”.

Babies are reassured that as you appear and disappear that you are still there.

What if Your Baby Is Not Engaged in Playtime?

What if your baby is not engaged in playtime?

There might be times when your baby simply isn’t engaged in playtime.

He or she could just be tired or bored by engaging in the same activity for too long.

Follow your baby’s cues. If they start to repeatedly look away, show signs of restlessness, or start to cry, then it is time to stop playing.

Often your baby is showing you they are tired and it is time to help them settle to sleep.

Babies develop in their own time. The NHS website Start For Life has lots of tips, advice and activities to help you care for your baby.

Talk to your health visitor if you have any questions or concerns.

Playing With Your Newborn Baby Conclusion

Playing with your baby on a regular basis will certainly help with their development in the early weeks and months.

If you find yourself struggling to settle your baby, then feel free to contact Margaret Maternity.

If there is an overseas trip coming up this year then feel free to read my guide on taking your baby overseas for the first time.

The post Playing With Your Newborn Baby appeared first on Margaret Maternity.

Understanding Postnatal Depression

Margaret Maternity — Tue, 09 Aug 2022 13:33:14 +0000

Understanding Postnatal Depression

Understanding Postnatal Depression is still a relatively new discussion in today’s modern society.

A few years ago, in preparation for a Maternity Nurse training programme, I was asked to write about the birth of my children.

My children were 11 and 7 at the time and in good health. Subsequently, I thought I had long moved on from thoughts of my pregnancies and those early years.

No one had ever asked me about the birth of my children. At the time, a good friend commented that I hardly talked about it.

At first, I shrugged it off, I was a new Mum with a premature baby who needed regular visits to the maternity hospital.

I was constantly having to explain ‘corrected age’ due to my son’s premature arrival, having been born nine weeks prior to his due date.

Consequently, this would result in feeling defensive whenever his development was questioned by medical professionals.

On the surface I was coping, in reality, I was a ball of anxiety.

This was in 1998 and awareness of Postnatal Depression didn’t really exist. At least it wasn’t being discussed generally back then, in the way it is recognised now.

This was prior to the explosion of online information in the mainstream. The following resources are a useful guide to understanding more about postnatal depression statistics.

Between 10 to 20% of women can experience postnatal depression and anxiety after giving birth (Perinatal Mental Health, 2019).

This increased to 47.5% during the first COVID 19 Lockdown, according to figures from UCL Researchers in 2021.

Furthermore, 1 in 10 men/partners can also experience postnatal depression as stated in a report by Psycom in 2020.

So as such, the following information is written to provide both the parent and friends and family with signs and symptoms of Postnatal Depression.

Subsequently, recognising and supporting Postnatal Depression and Anxiety.

Signs & Symptoms of Postnatal Depression

Firstly, it is important to know that Postnatal Depression is a treatable condition and there is help and support available.

Signs of Postnatal Depression often occur during the first few months after the birth of a baby. Furthermore, it can also appear at any time during the first year.

Depression

Depression can present as extreme tiredness, feeling tearful and a lack of interest in taking care of yourself.

Anxiety

You may worry about your health or that of your baby. Anxiety can often result in physical symptoms, particularly headaches and pain in the chest or stomach.

You may feel anxious about going out or meeting up with others, these are natural feelings when dealing with anxiety.

Panic

You may feel overwhelmed by everyday tasks, additionally, you may experience a ‘panicky’ feeling’ and have difficulty breathing.

Tension

Your body often reacts to anxiety. You may feel the tension in your neck, head, shoulders and stomach.

Obsessional and Intrusive Thoughts

This could be about a situation or an activity. Feelings of guilt or anxiety following the birth of your child.

Unable to Sleep

You may feel your mind is racing and it is difficult to relax even when the baby is sleeping.

Loss Of Interest In Sex

This is a common symptom of depression. It is important for partners to realise that this is a cause of the illness and that sexual desire should return.

Feeling Like You Are Going Through The Motions

You can feed, cuddle and settle your baby but not feel any enjoyment.

Some parents describe feeling disconnected, or that they don’t really feel the baby is theirs.

Lack Of Appetite Or Comfort Eating

This is a very common symptom of anxiety and depression. Our emotions are very often connected with food.

Worry a Lot About Your Baby, A Fear of Being Alone With Your Baby

This can feel exhausting. You may feel you are constantly on high alert and unable to relax.

Postnatal Depression Support

Do tell someone how you are feeling, your partner, a friend or a relative.

Are you concerned about the mental health of a relative, loved one or friend following the birth of a baby?

These support services are of use to consider suggesting. Talk to your GP or Health Visitor as a starting point to access help and resources.

Ask to be referred to the local Perimental Health Service.

Keep Talking

Many organisations that support parents with depression and anxiety have telephone and instant messaging support.

Likewise, most are run by parents who have experienced the range of emotions and feelings that you are feeling.

They understand and have lived through it.

PANDAS offer instant text support
APNI have a chat line and instant box chat

Say Yes To Offers Of Help For Postnatal Depression

It is a gift to your friends and family to help you.

People often want to help but they are not sure of the best way. If someone asks,’ is there anything you need?’ then embrace it.

We are not meant to be isolated when parenting. Start creating your village.

Help can be as simple as making you a hot drink, preparing food, shopping, a listening ear, or some company for an afternoon.

The opportunities are endless.

Put Your Oxygen Mask On

I was very fortunate to be able to work with highly regarded and well-respected Birth Doula Susan Martensen.

Susan taught me the analogy of putting on your oxygen mask (as you would on a plane), in order to be well and care for your family.

Self-care is vital and you may not feel you have the energy or motivation for it.

Be kind to yourself. Start slowly, remind yourself to eat, try and take a walk outside.

Put on some music as a distraction. Try and plan to get out of your home at least once a day.

Try not to add to your anxiety by feeling responsible for everyone around you.

If your partner says they are fine and not stressed, then believe them.

Don’t carry the idea of someone else’s anxiety which may not be there in the first place. Refocus on yourself.

Spend Time Out of the House

When you are feeling anxious or depressed it can be hard to imagine any form of socialising.

Ask a friend or relative to come over and keep you company. Shower, eat during this time, and suggest a walk with them.

Build on this and see if there is a drop-in group for parents and babies nearby. Ask someone to go with you.

Trust in Your Instinct

Spend some time out of the house. I had a client who was very anxious about being alone in the house with her baby. Not to mention, her anxiety would often feel overwhelming and she would start to feel panicky.

She decided to write the 5-4-3-2-1- anxiety plan and post it around the house so that wherever she was she had a reminder of a strategy she could use.

5 things you can see
4 things you can touch
3 things you can hear
2 things you can smell
1 thing you can taste

So how can you help someone suffering from postnatal depression or anxiety?

Take Time To Listen And Validate Feelings About Understanding Postnatal Depression

For a person with PND, their experience and feelings are very real to them even if you may see the situation differently.

You don’t need to try and ‘fix’ someone with PND, simply give them your attention and provide a non-judgemental listening ear.

Understanding Postnatal Depression itself is a key skill in winning the battle against PND.

Offer Encouragement To Seek Help And Receive The Treatment Needed

A starting point could be talking to their GP or Health Visitor and asking to be referred to the local Perimental Health Service.

Your partner or friend may be feeling isolated and that they are the only ones experiencing depression or anxiety.

Reassure them that support is available and help them to access it.

Connect With Other Parents Who Have Experience In Understanding Postnatal Depression

This could be parents in your friend’s group or a drop-in programme once a week.

Parents who find understanding postnatal depression should be a natural course of action.

My weekly get-together with other Mums during the first year of my son’s life was my saving grace.

Knowing that someone else was also up in the night or swapping strategies on how to cope.

Subsequently receiving great support with feeding, lack of sleep, teething etc. it also helped reduce the isolation I felt.

Most organisations are now running drop-in groups for Dads run by Dads.

If you feel your partner is not ready to reach out, then try and encourage them to meet up with another Dad in your friend group.

Have a Look for Understanding Postnatal Depression Groups in Your Area

Children’s Centres are a good starting point, often running support programmes and drop-in groups for parents and babies.

These organisations have an excellent understanding of Postnatal Depression.

Some organisations such as Bluebell Care will have a buddy system in place. This helps build confidence in seeking help and attending building confidence to socialise.

The Pandas Foundation offers instant text support and APNI have a chatline and instant box chat.

Offer Practical Help

This can be in the form of shopping, preparing meals and helping with the housework.

Encourage the practice and importance of self-care. Ask your relative/friend what they used to enjoy before the baby arrived.

Reassure them that this is a very important aspect of recovery.

Self-care can be as simple as an uninterrupted time to enjoy a shower/bath and dry their hair
Exercise, walk in the park, swim
Taking a short walk to a cafe and grabbing a coffee
Time with friends or family
Listening to music
Time spent cuddling their baby. rather than focusing on feeding and trying to settle them

Encourage Time Out - And for You Too!

It takes a lot of energy to care for a baby and support one another.

Both of you need time to recharge. In the early weeks, it is so busy that it is hard to fit this in, but it is doable.

I always talk to my clients about what they enjoyed doing before their routine changed with a baby.

This could be exercising, meeting with friends, being with family, music, or cooking. almost anything.

What can you incorporate so you can switch off for a short while? Start small, 20 minutes to yourself can feel like a luxury.

And finally, this will pass, it really will. It may not feel like it, but how you are feeling, the situation you are in, it will not be forever.

Hopefully, you will now have a better knowledge of understanding Postnatal Depression.

Further Postnatal Depression Resources For Understanding Postnatal Depression

The Birth Trauma Association – supports anyone affected by birth trauma, including partners. Tel: 01264 860380

Maternal OCD – supports people experiencing perinatal OCD, and family members. Mail: info@maternalocd.org

Dads in Mind – offer both group and 1:1 support to dads supporting their partners with mental health during pregnancy and after birth.

Furthermore, experience depression/anxiety related to their own new role as a parent.

Currently operating in the West Country region. Mail adrian@dadsinmind.org

If you are bringing your newborn baby home for the first time you may find this article useful.

Margaret Maternity provides remote Maternity Nurse Services for parents of unsettled babies, for more information take a look at Margaret Maternity’s Online Clinic.

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The Role of a Doula

Margaret Maternity — Tue, 09 Aug 2022 13:30:28 +0000

The Role of a Doula: How Doulas Support You Through Birth and Beyond

The role of a Doula in pregnancy is still relatively unknown in the UK, particularly in comparison to other countries.

There are many misconceptions about what a Doula is and the responsibilities during and following childbirth.

Essentially there are many differences between the role of a Doula and a Maternity Nurse.

What Does Doula Mean?

The word Doula originates from the Greek language and translates as a ‘helper’ or ‘caregiver’.

A Doula is a person, usually, a woman, who is not medically trained but who gives help and support to a woman during pregnancy and during and after the birth of her baby.

How a Doula Works

The role is to offer continuity of care helping to prepare you for the birth of your baby.

Furthermore, offering support for you and your partner during labour and postnatally.

Additionally, providing practical and emotional support.

Furthermore, to signpost you to evidence-based information.

This will enable you to make informed decisions about the care you receive.

During labour, you and your partner will be supported with different ideas for comfort measures and positions.

A Postnatal Doula will ease and nurture you through the transition with your baby during the fourth trimester.

She will ensure you are fed, hydrated and rested.

She is there to provide a listening ear, support and education with feeding, time to help you bond with your baby and practical support.

Is a Doula Right for You?

It is a common myth that Doulas are only hired if you are planning on an unmedicated birth.

This is not the case. A Doula is there to encourage you to be an advocate for yourself, to remind you of your options and to be with you whatever your decision and the outcome of the birth.

Women who feel listened to, respected, emotionally supported and receive continual care from their Doula will view the birth process as a much more positive experience.

Birth Partners are often surprised at how much they benefited from having a Doula as part of the birthing team.

As a partner, supporting a loved one through the process of labour can sometimes feel overwhelming.

A Doula can offer a calm presence, suggesting different comfort measures to offer and encouraging the partner to be an advocate.

The key to deciding on Doula support is to choose someone with who you feel a personal connection.

Someone who you feel comfortable with, who you trust to provide a calm, supportive and informative approach.

This will help those important oxytocin hormones to flow and so labour to progress!

What to Ask a Doula?

If this is your first experience hiring a Doula and you are keen to have this type of support, then you are likely to have many questions.

The following questions are an essential starting point to enable you to consider if this type of support is right for you, your baby and your partner;

Are you available around my due date?
What are your fees, and could you please send me a copy of your payment terms and conditions?

Additionally, once you have had feedback about availability and costs there may well be many other questions you have.

Here are some examples of many other commonly asked questions;

How long have you been a doula? How many families have you worked for?
Do you have a written contract in place? If yes, can you send it to me?
Do you have a backup? If yes, who is your backup, and can I meet her?
Under what circumstances would you send your backup?
Are you insured for your work?
Can you provide professional references?
What training, courses or additional learning have you done?
Explain your philosophy of childbirth, parenting and your work.
What skills and abilities do you personally feel you bring to your role?

It’s a good idea to prepare a list of questions you may have in advance.

Likewise, it’s a good idea to do some research on appropriate websites. Two reputable websites are listed in the section below.

How to Find a Doula?

There are several resources in the UK that have a directory of Doulas.

Find my Doula is a website directory listing both qualified and trainee Doulas by postcode search.

Additionally, another useful resource for further information is Doula UK.

Furthermore, the website provides a broad range of information, including training and support for families.

Margaret Maternity can offer post-natal Doula support for expectant parents, for more information please fill out your details on our contact page.

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Hiring a Maternity Nurse, 4 Things to Consider

Margaret Maternity — Tue, 09 Aug 2022 13:29:40 +0000

Hiring a Maternity Nurse, 4 Things to Consider

Hiring a Maternity Nurse can be undertaken either within the home or remotely via online consultations.

What exactly does Maternity Nurse support look like and what do you need to consider when you are hiring one?

Here are 4 things to consider when hiring a Maternity Nurse:

Professional Training and Experience

Firstly it is important to mention that the Maternity Nurse industry is not regulated.

As such, like in other unregulated industries, there can be complications.

Furthermore, talking from experience it is evident that there are demands for a ‘Maternity Nurse’ who is happy to do household cleaning chores and cooking.

Likewise, certain agencies will cater to clients who demand a ‘Maternity Nurse’, Cook, Cleaner and Nanny, all rolled into one.

For the seasoned and experienced Maternity Nurses amongst us, however, we bring a wealth of training and professional expertise to our clients.

Such professional training would normally include Nursing, Midwifery, Nursery Nursing and Social Work.

All of these offer a very specialised skill set, Furthermore, a knowledge to enable supporting families who are fully focused on the newborn baby’s development and settling-in process.

A Maternity Nurse may well have completed a Maternity Nurse training or workshop.

Thus acquiring the skills needed to address a variety of challenges that can present following the birth of a newborn or young baby.

It is important to look at her professional profile, furthermore how often she keeps herself updated with industry-relevant training.

What Will an Experienced Maternity Nurse Do?

First and foremost, a Maternity Nurse is there to offer practical and emotional support.

Additionally, on hand to ease the transition with your baby and to help you recover from the birth of your child.

Ideally, the sooner you have the required support, the easier the transition.

Your Maternity Nurse can arrive the day you bring your baby home from the hospital.

Likewise, then you will feel supported and can focus on recovering from giving birth.

The first 10 days to two weeks are all about feeding!

The focus will be on ensuring your baby is feeding well, gaining weight and observing for any feeding issues.

If you plan to breastfeed your Maternity Nurse will be able to suggest different feeding positions.

Additionally, she will observe the latch, help you understand feeding cues and how to ensure you maintain your milk supply.

If necessary, your Maternity Nurse can recommend a Lactation Consultant.

Practical Support That Your Maternity Nurse Can Offer

Help you set up your baby’s nursery with a list of suggestions for equipment (including what is essential and what is a luxury!).

Set up equipment and show you how to use and care for it e.g. breast pumps. Wash and sterilise bottles and prepare formula safely.

Suggest when and if there is a need to pump breastmilk and how to store the milk. Help you bathe your baby and care for the umbilical cord.

Help you recover from giving birth by ensuring you are hydrated, eating well and resting. Show you how to settle your baby.

What an experienced Maternity Nurse will do is identify feeding and settling issues.

A Maternity Nurse will refer to a team of professionals, where appropriate.

Such as, Lactation Consultants, Paediatricians, Osteopaths and Tongue Tie Specialists.

Your Maternity Nurse should have a sound knowledge of newborn development, feeding expectations, growth spurts and how to manage them.

Additionally, they should guide you through your baby’s cues such as which cry is tired, hungry, I want a cuddle, or I want to be put down.

They will have knowledge of sleep expectations with your baby. To support you and your partner in building a relationship with your baby.

Answer ALL your questions, you are sure to have many! Listen and reassure you, help you process your birth experience.

Observe for signs of Postnatal Depression and Anxiety. Have a list of resources and professionals who may be useful to you in your baby’s first year.

It will leave you feeling confident, with expectations and strategies for the next stage of your baby’s development.

Additional Points to Consider and Questions to Ask

There are several factors worth considering if you are thinking about hiring a Maternity Nurse.

What is the Maternity Nurse’s approach? Does she adopt a routine-focused or baby-led approach?

Do you feel comfortable and at ease with this person?

Is this someone you feel you could ask a question at 2 am when feeding is not going well and you are exhausted?

When will the Maternity Nurse take a break?

Most Maternity Nurses will have a break of 4 hours out of the 20 hours they are available to you.

Usually, this break is taken during the morning and will ensure that she is rested in order to continue to care for you and your baby.

Take time to plan for how many 24-hour cycles you require a Maternity Nurse, and for how long you will require support for your baby.

Furthermore, packages can be created to suit personal needs.

It can be anything from a couple of nights when you return home from the hospital or 2 or 3 months of support.

Help is offered weighing up personal options, starting with filling out our contact form.

Alternatively, help is available from a very good charity at home start.

I provide a bespoke remote consultation package for parents of newborn and infant babies up to 2 years.

Further details can be found via the Online Clinic.

The post Hiring a Maternity Nurse, 4 Things to Consider appeared first on Margaret Maternity.

Remote Support for Parents and Babies

Margaret Maternity — Tue, 09 Aug 2022 13:24:46 +0000

Remote Support for Parents and Babies

The idea of offering Remote Support for Parents and Babies evolved during the first Lockdown of the Pandemic.

My Maternity Nurse role involves supporting families in their homes with a new baby.

This work literally dried up overnight as we were instructed to stay at home.

I started to receive frantic calls from parents asking for advice on caring for their newborn.

How to check the latch when breastfeeding?

Should they pump as well? Is this the normal colour of baby poo?

Why won’t my baby sleep? Is my baby sleeping too much?

Why won’t my baby stop crying?

Fortunately, with remote support, I was able to assist parents with these issues and challenges!

Why Do New Parents Choose Remote Support?

For many, remote support can be an affordable and practical option when addressing issues such as feeding or sleep.

Parents have access to an experienced maternity practitioner who can listen and guide them through implementing changes and strategies.

Furthermore, parents can often feel overwhelmed with the amount of information available.

It is hard to know what is a reliable source on the internet and how up-to-date the information is.

My role, as a Remote Maternity Nurse Consultant is to empower parents.

Creating a plan of support that is right for their baby and for them as a family dynamic.

There is no ‘one sleep solution’ that suits all babies or the parents trying to implement it!

How Do Remote 1-1 Consultations Work?

Initially, when parents contact me asking for remote support I will email them a questionnaire and book a 1-1 Skype or Zoom Consultation.

The questionnaire covers pregnancy, labour, birth and includes a typical 24 hours in your baby’s life with feeding and sleep.

It is helpful for me to gather as much information as possible prior to the Remote Consultation.

This enables me to create a general overview of what has been happening.

Furthermore, create relevant strategies for enabling a happier and more peaceful family environment, for the baby and parents.

Remote Consultations generally last about an hour, however, for more complex cases, the time is not limited to an hour.

I work to ensure that parents have the opportunity to include everything they need to talk about.

Additionally, an opportunity to ask questions and fully understand and agree on the plan of support is also included in the first consultation.

Following the initial remote consultation, parents will receive a written plan of what was discussed.

Strategies are given to start implementing and resources as needed.

I am able to support parents as they implement changes and communicate via E-mail or Video Call.

Often coaching parents as they begin a new strategy such as settling their baby in a cot for naps.

Talking parents through how to resettle a crying baby and helping to extend sleep cycles.

What Are the Benefits of Remote Support for Newborn or Infant Babies?

Messaging services offer a convenient method to communicate what is happening with the baby or babies on a daily basis.

Furthermore, this enables me to give parents the confidence to continue with the plan and the information to change things as necessary.

It is also beneficial to have regular Skype or Zoom reviews to discuss what is working and what may need changing.

Usually one live remote consultation a week is enough, however, I want parents to feel as supported as possible.

Therefore, sometimes parents will ask for a call and we can often sort things out very quickly.

Sometimes parents will add a remote support package as an extension of the in-home Maternity Nurse support.

This works very well as parents feel reassured that they will still have continued support.

For more details on the remote services I am able to offer please feel free to visit the Online Clinic page.

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Margaret Maternity

Pregnancy Bag Checklist for Giving Birth in Hospital

Pregnancy Bag Checklist for Giving Birth in Hospital

Your Labour Bag Checklist

Postnatal Hospital Bag Checklist

Hospital Bag Checklist for your Baby

In Conclusion

Cough and Cold Symptoms in Young Babies​

Cough and Cold Symptoms in Young Babies

Cough & Cold Symptoms in a Newborn or Infant Baby

Runny or Congested Nose

Decreased Appetite

A High Temperature

Irittable and Unsettled Emotions

Cough & Cold Treatment in a Newborn or Infant Baby

When to Consult Your GP or NHS Helpline

In Conclusion

My Journey to Become a Maternity Nurse

Becoming a Maternity Nurse, a Personal Journey

My Maternity Nurse Journey

The Turning Point

Training

Working with Maternity Experts

Empowering Parents

Taking Your Baby Overseas for the First Time

Taking Your Baby Overseas for the First Time

A Passport

Baby Food and Drink Supplies

Baby Equipment for Bedtime

Baby Personal Care

Protection From the Weather

Taking Your Baby Overseas Checklist

Bringing Your Newborn Baby Home

Bringing Your Newborn Baby Home

Feeding Your Newborn Baby

Clothing your Newborn Baby

Nappies for your Newborn Baby

Bedding for your Newborn Baby​

Equipment

Breast Pumps

Pram

A Playmat for your Newborn Baby

A Car Seat for your Newborn Baby

A Sterilising Kit for your Newborn Baby

Changing your Newborn Baby

And finally...

Playing With Your Newborn Baby

Playing With Your Newborn Baby​

Why Playing With Your Newborn Baby Is Important

Stretch, Pedal and Tickle​

Singing to Your Baby

Dancing With Your Baby

Playing Peek-A-Boo

What if Your Baby Is Not Engaged in Playtime?

Playing With Your Newborn Baby Conclusion

Understanding Postnatal Depression

Understanding Postnatal Depression​

Signs & Symptoms of Postnatal Depression

Depression

Anxiety

Panic

Tension

Obsessional and Intrusive Thoughts

Unable to Sleep

Loss Of Interest In Sex

Feeling Like You Are Going Through The Motions

Lack Of Appetite Or Comfort Eating

Worry a Lot About Your Baby, A Fear of Being Alone With Your Baby

Postnatal Depression Support

Keep Talking

Say Yes To Offers Of Help For Postnatal Depression

Put Your Oxygen Mask On

Spend Time Out of the House

Trust in Your Instinct

Take Time To Listen And Validate Feelings About Understanding Postnatal Depression

Offer Encouragement To Seek Help And Receive The Treatment Needed

Connect With Other Parents Who Have Experience In Understanding Postnatal Depression

Have a Look for Understanding Postnatal Depression Groups in Your Area

Offer Practical Help

Encourage Time Out - And for You Too!

Cough and Cold Symptoms in Young Babies

Bedding for your Newborn Baby

Playing With Your Newborn Baby

Stretch, Pedal and Tickle

Understanding Postnatal Depression