Welcome to week 19. It's around about now that you might start to think things are under control - then suddenly, along comes a tooth! We have some helpful tips to ease the pain. For both of you.
You and your baby
Week 19 News
Have you experienced your first tooth yet? Don't worry if not, it can arrive any time from 3 months to a year after birth. But you'll know when it does: prepare for soaked bibs and tops from all that dribbling. And probably a little more sleep disruption...
The Expert View
Intense continuous crying can be a sign a tooth is appearing. Stay calm and use your usual soothing methods. A warm bath or a massage can also help. It can be really stressful, especially if you and baby aren't sleeping - but no matter how frustrated and emotional things become, just remember, this is just a phase.
Babies find sitting up one of the hardest things to do. One way to help them learn is to spread their legs into a V shape on the floor, then put one of their favourite toys between their knees. You'll still need a cushion or two behind though! Support with your hand, and never leave them unattended.
Tips for you
Tip: Feeding issues
Don't forget our guide to feeding issues. It's full of helpful facts about common issues around feeding your baby.
You should start toddler-proofing your home even before your little one starts to crawl. Move wires that can be chewed or pulled, as well as covering sharp corners and edges.
Remember our Careline team is always on hand to help. You can talk to our expert mums about teething problems 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.
