After Delivery &
Breastfeeding

Find helpful information and tips as you enter the final stage of your pregnancy journey.

Starting a New Chapter

Welcoming a baby is the start of a new and exciting chapter – one that’s often filled with new experiences, a whirlwind of emotions, and lots of learning along the way. You may have questions or uncertainties about the best way to nourish and protect your newborn, especially with all the different opinions and options out there. The most important thing is to find what works for you and your baby.

Remember, parenting is a deeply personal journey. What works for one family might not work for yours, and that's absolutely fine. From breastfeeding to bottle-feeding to vaccinations, there are many steps you can take to support your baby’s health and well-being in the days and weeks following birth.

Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is one of many ways you can help keep your baby healthy and protected after they are born. Breastmilk contains protective antibodies from your body that can help your baby fight off infections. This is especially important during the first few months of life when babies are most vulnerable to getting very sick and aren’t old enough to get their own vaccinations.

If breastfeeding or pumping isn’t right for you, that’s perfectly okay! This new chapter is all about finding what works best for you, your baby, and your family. Talk to your paediatrician or healthcare provider about the different options available for you and your baby. They can help recommend a formula that meets your baby’s needs. Another option is getting donor milk from a credible milk bank. Whatever path you take should feel comfortable for you.

Vaccines & Breastfeeding

Additional Tips

Another important step you can take to keep your baby healthy and protected in the months following birth is to encourage other people in your life to get vaccinated. Start by making sure that your baby's caregivers and close contacts, such as partners, grandparents, and siblings, are up-to-date on their vaccinations. This helps prevent the spread of harmful germs to your baby. Vaccinating also protects other members of your community, like elderly family members or those with weakened immune systems who are more likely to get very sick. This makes your community safer for everyone.

  • Communicate: Talk to family members and close friends about the importance of vaccinations. Discuss their role in protecting your newborn.

  • Consult Healthcare Providers: Encourage those closest to your baby to consult their healthcare providers about necessary vaccinations.

  • Plan Ahead: If possible, have this conversation well before the baby's arrival, so there's enough time for everyone to get up-to-date on their vaccinations.

Resources

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