effectively and can lead to blockages or mastitis). Other tips: If your nipples are tender don’t be afraid to ask for help from your partner or health visitor Feed your baby regularly from both breastsKeep a bracelet or band the arm of whichever side you fed

for the new arrival.As your due date approaches, you'll also need to prepare your first child for what will happen to her when you go into labour.'Children are afraid of the unexpected, so keep it light - Mummy will go into hospital and you'll stay with Granny

. While you're in hospital, don't be afraid to seek help and advice from the midwives who are on duty.If you still have concerns, find out the name of the hospital's breastfeeding advisor and ask for her to come to your bedside. It is worth doing some

. While you're in hospital, don't be afraid to seek help and advice from the midwives who are on duty.If you still have concerns, find out the name of the hospital's breastfeeding advisor and ask for her to come to your bedside. It is worth doing some

in pregnancy comes away.What to do:Contact your GP or midwife - labour could be about to start.IF YOU NEED HELPCall Tommy's Pregnancy Information Line on 0870 777 3060 if you have any worriesA miscarriage can be devastating so don't be afraid to ask for support

their heads tend to be round. Can I touch my baby’s soft spot? Don’t be afraid of touching the fontanelle or ‘soft spot’ on the top of his head – it’s covered by a tough membrane and is less fragile than you think. It’s the fontanelle that allowed your baby

emotional and prone to tears, find it hard to rest and lose your appetite, too. You may feel anxious and afraid that you're not a good mother. All of this is perfectly normal.But if these feelings persist, it's time to talk to someone. Bridget O

worse very quicklyBe persistent. Don't be afraid to voice your fear. Be direct - ask, 'Could it be meningitis?'By making sure you have as much information as you can at your fingertips, you can feel confident in knowing what to do in the unlikely event

and may even start to cry. She'll also start making her first sounds like cooing while she's doing something that she enjoys.What you can do:Keep talking to your child as you're doing things, and don't be afraid to slip into ‘motherese' or baby talk.5

. ‘Many parents say it’s a kind method as their child’s not afraid of being left alone, just cross at the lack of attention. It is labour intensive for the first night, but by the end of the first week, most children will fall asleep quickly.’ THE 16