Congratulations on your new arrival! And welcome to the wonderful journey of parenthood. Don't worry if you're feeling like you're on an emotional rollercoaster - it's all perfectly normal. Your priority is getting to know your baby - and we're here to offer you as much expert help as we can. And don't worry - you're doing great.
You and your baby
Week 1 News
Right now, your little one's limbs are still curled up and their movements are jerky. This is normal as baby gets used to life outside the womb. Don't worry if your little one is still adapting to feeding - they'll settle in. Breastfeeding mums find that gently stroking a cheek with your nipple and seeing your baby turn to your breast to feed is a good way to start. This is called the 'rooting' reflex and is one of nature's little miracles!
Breast is best, and exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months of life. Your milk provides an ideal balanced diet, as well as protection against illness. The very first breast milk is called 'colostrum' and is a thick, golden liquid that is full of protein and antibodies. It gives your baby all of the nutrients they need in those important first days.
The secret to a happy nappy change for both of you is to get everything you need ready first. It'll make the whole process feel far less overwhelming - and remember, you should never leave your baby unattended on the changing mat. Read our step by step guide and watch our video for more help with nappy changes.
Baby poo can vary between babies depending on how they are fed, so try not to worry. The very first offering (called 'meconium') is often a dark greenish-black. Later, you can expect it to change to a mustard colour.
Your baby's tummy button needs a little TLC. Make sure it's clean, dry and is never covered by the nappy. It also helps to dress your baby in loose clothing, so that the area gets lots of air.
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The first weeks can be overwhelming, but we're here to help. Remember our Careline team is always on hand to help. You can talk to our expert mums about breastfeeding or anything else that's on your mind. Get in touch using our live chat, by phone or by email.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: The best way to feed a baby is to breastfeed, as breast milk provides the ideal balanced diet and protection against illness for your baby and also many non-nutritional benefits for both baby and mother. We recommend that you speak to your healthcare professional when deciding on your choice of feeding your baby. Professional guidance should also be sought on the preparation for and maintenance of breastfeeding. If you do choose to breastfeed, it's important to eat a healthy, balanced diet. Infant formula is intended to replace breast milk when mothers choose not to breastfeed or if for some reason they are unable to do so. A decision not to breastfeed, or to introduce partial bottle-feeding, will reduce the supply of breast milk. If for any reason you choose not to breastfeed, do remember that such a decision can be difficult to reverse. Using infant formula also has social and financial implications which must be considered. Infant formula should always be prepared, used and stored as instructed on the label, in order to avoid risks to a baby's health.
