Here's your week 12 newsletter from the SMA® Baby Club. This week, we're asking when's a good time to have sex again, as well as pondering the mystery of the empty nappy...
You and your baby
Week 12 News
Your little one's physical prowess is developing fast. They can now probably hold their head steady when held upright. They can clasp their hands, swipe and even kick. And when they lay on their tummies, they'll start to lift their head and chest. Go, baby!
The Expert View
Should you worry about empty nappies? All babies are unique and most changes are nothing to worry about. Some babies poo after every feed, but some can go longer without pooing. Speak to your GP or health visitor if you are worried, or if there are any sudden changes in your baby's nappies.
It's a sensitive subject for a lot of couples after the birth of their baby - when should you start having sex again? The answer's simple: it's up to you! Some people do after a few weeks, whilst some people wait for months. However you feel, don't worry - it's a choice for you and your partner to make together. Just remember contraception when you do eventually decide. You may be fertile even before your periods start again.
Tips for you
Tip:
Massage groups
You can show your baby massage skills - or learn some - at a local massage group. Ask your Health Visitor if there's one near. It's a great way to meet other mums too.
Around the 12th week, your baby might have another big growth spurt. Expect a bit of sleeplessness around now and more frequent demands for your magic milk.
Get some expert help
Remember our Careline team is always on hand to help. You can talk to our expert mums about starting sex again or anything else that's on your mind. Get in touch 24/7 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.
