Additives

European Union (EU) legislation requires most additives used in foods to be labelled in the list of ingredients either by name or by an E number. All additives with E numbers have passed safety tests and have been approved for use. 

The Food Standards Authority (FSA) has advised parents of children showing signs of hyperactivity that cutting certain artificial colours from their diets might have some beneficial effects.  The additives to avoid are: E110 (Sunset Yellow), E104 (Quinoline yellow), E122 (Carmoisine), E129 (Allura red), E102 (Tartrazine) and E124 (Ponceau 4R). Visit http://www.eatwell.gov.uk for more information.

No artificial additives are used in HiPP Organic baby foods.  For more information on the HiPP Organic product range click here.

Adenoids

Adenoids are found at the back of the nasal passage above the tonsils and they form part of the body’s defences against respiratory infections such as coughs and colds. The adenoids start to grow from birth and reach their maximum size at about 3-5 years old. They start to shrink again around the age of 7, by late teens are barely visible and by adulthood will have disappeared.

In some children the adenoids become enlarged and this can lead to difficulties with breathing and to nasal-sounding speech. Enlarged adenoids can also result in middle-ear infections and a build up of fluid in the middle ear (‘glue ear’). The

Enlarged adenoids generally shrink as the child gets older or they may be surgically removed (either on their own (adenoidectomy) or as part of a tonsillectomy).

ADHD - Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

This is a disorder in which a child is typically constantly active, unable to sit still, has a short attention span, has difficulty in concentrating on tasks and has impulsive behaviour e.g. trouble controlling what they are saying. In some children, certain foods or food additives seem to aggravate symptoms. For more information visit www.eatwell.gov.uk.

ADHD is a medical condition which should not be confused with normal excitable or boisterous behaviour.  

Support groups for ADHD include:

• National Attention Deficit Disorder Information and Support Service: www.addiss.co.uk or
• The Hyperactive Children’s Support Group: www.hacsg.org.uk.

Air Travel

Air travel can usually be undertaken until the 36th week of pregnancy, but after 28 weeks most airlines require a letter from your GP stating that you are fit to fly.  Make sure your travel insurance is valid for pregnancy and that it provides cover for you and the baby if the baby arrives early.

Pregnant women who fly are at a small but significant risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (the medical term for blood clots), referred to as DVT. During a flight, pregnant women should make sure they drink plenty of water, wear special flight socks and get up and walk around at least once every hour. While seated, the calf muscles should frequently be worked by flexing the feet up and down. 

Alcohol In Pregnancy

If you are pregnant, or trying to become pregnant, it’s generally considered best to avoid alcohol in at least the first 3 months if possible. If you would like an occasional drink, restrict your intake to no more than 1 or 2 units of alcohol, once or twice a week and avoid getting drunk, or binge drinking.

One small (125ml) glass of wine is about 1.5 units, half a standard (175ml) glass of wine is about 1 unit, alcopops about 1.5 units and half a pint of (standard strength) beer, lager or cider, or a single measure of spirits, are around 1 unit.

If you require more information visit www.drinkaware.co.uk.

Alcohol While Breastfeeding

Your blood alcohol levels (and the level of alcohol in your milk) will generally be highest 1-1½ hours after your last drink. The occasional glass of wine or other alcoholic drink does not appear to harm a breastfed baby or interfere with milk production. 

Allergies

An allergy is an inappropriate reaction by the body’s immune system to normally harmless substances such as pollen, cat and dog fur, house dust mites, and some foods - most commonly dairy products, seafood, wheat, eggs, peanuts. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can vary but could include itchy skin or a rash, itchy eyes, wheezing, swelling. In rare cases the allergy can produce an extreme and life threatening reaction or anaphylactic shock. Common allergic conditions are hay fever, asthma, eczema and urticaria (also referred to as hives/nettle rash).

Visit the British Allergy Foundation for more information: www.allergyuk.org.

Amniocentesis

This is a diagnostic procedure in which a small amount of the amniotic fluid surrounding a baby in the womb is withdrawn with a syringe, using an ultrasound scan for guidance. The amniotic fluid is analysed to identify or exclude certain disorders or defects. The results of an amniocentesis can also reveal the baby’s sex.

Amniocentesis may be offered - after counselling -where a screening test has indicated an increased risk of Down's Syndrome, where an ultrasound scan has detected a possible abnormality; or to those women have a past history or family history of a genetic or chromosomal disorder.

Amniocentesis is usually performed between 15-20 weeks of pregnancy and
it is down to personal choice whether you want this procedure to be carried out as it is not entirely risk free.

Amniotic Fluid

This is a fluid surrounding the baby in the womb and is also known as the 'waters'.

Anaemia And Pregnancy

During pregnancy, blood tests are carried out to measure the levels of haemoglobin in the blood. Haemoglobin carries oxygen around the body. Anaemia is a condition in which haemoglobin levels are low - and the resulting lack of oxygen going round the body causes symptoms such as tiredness, breathlessness, poor concentration, paleness/pale skin, weakness. The body uses iron to make haemoglobin and iron deficiency is the most common cause of anaemia. Pregnant women have a greater volume of blood circulating in the body and therefore they need good levels of iron to make enough haemoglobin. For more information click here.

Anaemia In Infants

The stores of iron a child is born with start to run out at about 6 months, so the inclusion of iron-rich foods in the diet is important. Lack of iron may lead to anaemia, which can affect a child's physical and mental development. Meat is a good source of iron, as are fish, eggs, lentils and beans.  To improve iron absorption, give foods or drinks rich in  vitamin C, e.g. fruit or diluted fruit juice, at the same meal. Follow-on milks such as HiPP Organic Follow-on milk also contain increased levels of iron.

Anaphylactic Shock

A rare, life-threatening allergic reaction. Children or adults with a known extreme sensitivity to a particular substance, e.g. insect bites or a certain food, may need to have adrenaline (epinephrine) injections readily available for use in an emergency.

Apgar Score

This is a scoring system used to evaluate the physical condition of a newborn baby one minute after birth (and commonly repeated after 5 minutes). Assessments are made for breathing, heart rate, colour, muscle tone and response to stimulation. Scores are given out of ten and an Apgar score of seven or over indicates that the baby is in good condition.

A slightly low Apgar score (especially at 1 minute) is normal for some newborns, especially those born after a high risk pregnancy, caesarean section or complicated labour and delivery. Lower Apgar scores may also be seen in premature babies.  

ARM (Artificial Rupture Of Membranes)

Also termed amniotomy, this is where a pregnant woman’s ‘waters’ are ‘broken’ by use of a special instrument, i.e. the membranes surrounding the amniotic sac are ruptured in order to induce the birth or to speed up labour.

Asperger's Syndrome

This is a form of autism - a condition affecting the way a sufferer communicates with, and relates to, others. The disorder is usually recognised in childhood because of difficulties with social interactions, stilted speech and very focused, specialised interests. Intelligence levels are usually normal or high. It is often harder to diagnose than other forms of autism as the symptoms tend to be more subtle.

For more information visit the Asperger’s Foundation: www.aspergerfoundation.org.uk.

Asthma

Asthma is an inflammatory condition of the airways of the lungs. During an asthma attack, the airways become narrower and inflamed, causing difficulty in breathing, coughing, wheezing, ‘tight’ chest and considerable distress. The number of children affected with asthma has increased considerably in recent years. For more information on asthma visit www.asthma.org.uk.

Some children under the age of one get wheezy when they have a cold -sometimes called 'viral wheezing', 'baby asthma' or even 'wheezy bronchitis'- but this is different to the asthma that occurs later on in childhood. Asthma is more likely if the child has symptoms that persist even when the cold is better and especially if they have eczema as well.

Autism

More common in boys, an affected child has difficulties with relationships, communication and imagination. The child will also demonstrate repetitive patterns of behaviour. The condition usually becomes apparent in the first year of life.

An autistic child prefers to play alone, does not make eye contact, has difficulty with everyday social interactions and is extremely resistant to change of any kind. Rituals and obsessions are very important. Delay in learning to speak is common and the child may also display one or more sensory sensitivities e.g. extreme reactions to being touched.

For more information contact the National Autism Society: www.nas.org.uk.

Baby Massage

This is a great way to bond with your baby and may help you and your baby to relax, relieve digestive problems  such as colic, and soothe dry skin. In helping  to reduce  stress levels, baby massage has been shown to help babies sleep better. For advice on baby massage classes in your area, ask your midwife or health visitor, or visit the International Association of Infant Massage

Backache In Pregnancy

During pregnancy, muscles and ligaments relax to let your uterus expand.  This can result in backache (which may also extend to the buttocks). Wear low heels, avoid heavy lifting and try to rest with your feet up. A hot water bottle may help and massage can also be beneficial. If your backache is very painful, your GP or midwife may be able to refer you to an obstetric physiotherapist.

Bedding For Babies

Do not use a duvet, quilt or pillow for babies under 12 months. Place baby ‘feet to foot’ in the cot and make sure the covers reach no higher than the baby’s shoulders.

The amount of bedding you use depends on the room temperature. An ideal room temperature is between 16-20°C (18°C is just right). Feel baby’s tummy or neck to check whether they are too hot or cold - not their feet or hands, which often feel cool.

Babies have different requirements, but if your baby is wearing a vest and sleepsuit, then typical bedding at various room temperatures would be:

• 16°C - 1 sheet plus 3 layers of blanket (a doubled over blanket counts as two layers)

• 18°C (ideal room temperature) - 1 sheet plus 2 layers of blanket

• 21°C - 1 sheet plus 1 layer of blanket

• 24°C - 1 sheet only

Many parents choose to use a baby sleeping bag over the baby’s sleepsuit in place of blankets. Baby sleeping bags are available in various sizes and tog (warmth) ratings. 2.5 tog on its own is for use in standard nursery temperatures of 16-20°C, 1.0 tog for use during warmer weather and room temperatures of 20-24°C.

Bedroom Temperature

The ideal bedroom temperature for a baby is between 16-20°C (18°C is just right). Room thermometers can be obtained cheaply from a number of retailers. 

Birth Plan

This is a written plan of how you would ideally like to give birth. Writing one is a good opportunity to consider options and make decisions about the management of your labour, e.g. pain relief etc. Click here to download HiPP's handy birth plan which you can complete and print out.

Birthmarks/Moles

These may be present at birth or appear soon afterwards. They include moles, freckles and other types of discoloured skin, strawberry marks (red, lumpy protuberances) and port wine stains (flat, often large, areas of purpley red skin). Strawberry marks often get larger at first but then disappear as the child gets older. Port wine stains do not disappear, but may be reduced by laser treatment in later life. Many babies also have ‘stork bites’ - a red mark between the eyebrows that shows up more when the baby is crying. These will soon disappear.

Visit the Birthmark Support Group for more information: www.birthmarksupportgroup.org.uk.

Bleeding In Pregnancy

Bleeding during early pregnancy is surprisingly common - indeed some women may not realise they are pregnant because they have light bleeding at their usual period time (often referred to as implantation bleeding). If you have any bleeding, however, you should take it seriously and check with your doctor. The doctor may arrange for a scan to check all is well.

Blood Pressure

Raised blood pressure in pregnancy can be a sign of pre-eclampsia - a condition that is dangerous for both mother and baby - so blood pressure levels are monitored throughout pregnancy.

Bowel Movements - Babies

In the first day or two after birth, babies pass a greeny-black sticky substance called meconium - consisting of waste products built up in the bowel during the time in the womb. Doctors and midwives will want to know whether baby has passed a motion, since this signifies that the bowels are working properly. After the meconium has been passed, baby’s motions will become generally mustardy-yellow in colour and have a soft almost runny consistency. You can find more information on bowel movements in the A-Z sections on constipation and diarrhoea.

Braxton-Hicks Contractions

These ‘practice’ contractions are often experienced in the final days of pregnancy - and can cause fruitless trips to the maternity hospital! The difference between Braxton -Hicks contractions and true contractions include:true contractions get stronger and more painful over time; true contractions are not stopped by a change in activity; with true contractions you may also have a 'show' - blood stained mucus from the cervix.

Breastfeeding

For Frequently Asked Questions about breastfeeding please click here.

If you would like to know more about the benefits of breastfeeding (both for you and your baby) visit the following NHS website:www.breastfeeding.nhs.uk.

If you would like more information about what to eat whilst breastfeeding visit,: www.eatwell.gov.uk.

If you require any advice or support whilst breastfeeding, contact one of the breastfeeding associations featured in our useful contacts section.

Bronchiolitis

This is a common respiratory infection that affects babies and young toddlers. The tiny airways in the lungs - the bronchioles - become inflamed, making it hard for the baby to breathe. Most of those affected experience only symptoms similar to an ordinary cold, and the condition clears up within 7-10 days, but occasionally more severe breathing problems can develop and you should contact the doctor. Symptoms of bronchiolitis include a dry cough, wheezing, rapid breathing (and sometimes feeding difficulties). If a baby under one year has these symptoms you should also contact the doctor.

Burns/Scalds

Cool the burn immediately with cold water for 10 minutes. The area may start to swell, so remove any constricting items such as bracelets etc. Remove any clothing covering the burned area, making sure it is not stuck to the burn (leave it in place if it is). Cover the burn loosely - cling film (the inside of the roll facing the burn) is ideal, or a new, unused plastic bag or a specialised burns dressing. Never use a cream or ointment to treat a burn as this can cause more damage to the skin. All babies and children with burns should be seen by a doctor.

Caesarean Section

A caesarean section may be planned ('elective caesarean') or carried out as an emergency procedure (if, for example, the baby is in distress or if the mother's blood pressure is too high). An elective caesarean usually takes place around 39 weeks and is often carried out using an epidural anaesthetic.

Caffeine In Pregnancy

Pregnant women are advised to limit their intake of caffeine to not more than 300mg per day (and recent research has suggested this limit should be 200mg). This is because high levels of caffeine can lead to low birthweight or even miscarriage. Caffeine occurs naturally in foods and drinks such as chocolate, tea and coffee, and is also contained in some soft drinks and 'energy' drinks. For more information please click here.

Car Seats

You must by law use a special car seat for your baby when in the car. A rear-facing car seat should be used for as long as possible-those classified as group 0+ can be used until baby is 13kg (as long as the baby's head does not stick up over the top of the car seat).

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

During pregnancy, an increase in fluid can cause swelling around the channel of the nerves in the wrist (the carpal tunnel), resulting in tingling, pain and numbness in the hands. The symptoms can appear at any time but most commonly begin in the fifth and sixth month of pregnancy. For most women it is only mild and temporary.

Cerebral Palsy

A disorder that results, in most cases, from damage to the developing brain before, during or just after birth, or in early childhood. The condition has different symptoms depending upon the area of the brain affected and the extent of the damage and cerebral palsy may not therefore be recognised at first. A baby with this condition may be floppy, have difficulties in feeding, and be late in sitting up unsupported. Although it cannot be cured, much can be done to help children with cerebral palsy.

Visit Scope for more information: www.scope.org.uk/.

Chickenpox (Varicella)

Chickenpox is a common, infectious childhood disease. Usually mild in children, it is more serious in adults. Chickenpox starts with a rash and slight fever. The rash develops two to three weeks after infection. The small, red itchy spots soon become fluid-filled blisters. The blisters then dry up and scab over. Scratching the blisters may lead to infection and scarring. Chickenpox is highly infectious from about two days before the rash appears to about a week afterwards. An attack usually gives immunity for life, but the virus remains dormant in the body and can reappear as shingles later in life.

Most pregnant women (around 95%) will have had the disease and already be immune. Pregnant women who have never had the disease (or who are unsure if they have had it), however, should try to avoid children with chickenpox, since the disease can be serious in pregnancy. If they are exposed, they should contact their GP, midwife or obstetrician at once. A blood test will establish if they are immune.

A doctor should also be consulted if a breastfeeding mother who has never had chickenpox comes into contact with the virus, or if a newborn baby (under 4 weeks old) is exposed to the disease.

Choking

Babies and children can usually cough and clear the obstruction - if they can cry or talk afterwards, they can breathe. If they cannot clear the obstruction themselves, help them in the following way:

 

Babies under 12 months

• Hold the baby face down along your arm with their legs either side of your arm and their head below the level of the chest.

• Give up to 5 blows between the baby’s shoulder blades with the flat of your fingers - checking each time to see if the obstruction has cleared.
  

What if this doesn't work?
Turn the baby over (face up, but again with the head below the level of the chest) and use your first two fingers to give up to 5 sharp thrusts on the chest, checking between each thrust.

Keep repeating these two procedures until the obstruction clears. If it doesn’t work, keep trying and ask someone to dial 999.

 

Toddlers and children over 12 months

• Look in the baby or child’s mouth, and if the object can be seen remove it carefully. But do not try to reach blindly into the back of the throat

• Put the baby or child over your lap, face down - or bend them forwards - so that the head is lower than the chest

• Give up to 5 blows between the shoulder blades with the flat of your hand - checking each time to see if the obstruction has cleared.

What if this doesn't work?
If this doesn’t work, kneel behind the (standing) child and put both arms around them. Make a fist with one hand and place it just above the belly button, with your thumb facing inwards. Grasp your fist with the other hand and thrust inwards and upwards. Do this up to 5 times, checking each time to see if the obstruction has cleared. (These are known as abdominal thrusts and should not be performed on young babies).

Repeat these two procedures until the obstruction clears. If it doesn’t work, keep trying and ask someone to dial 999.

Has the baby/child loss consciousness?
If the baby or child loses consciousness, and you know how to do it, carry out CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation, also known as mouth-to-mouth) at a rate of 5 rescue breaths then 30 compressions.

See ‘First Aid’ for information about first aid courses.

Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS)

This is a diagnostic test carried out during the 10th-12th week of pregnancy (earlier than an amniocentesis). A small sample of tissue is taken for analysis from the outer edge of the placenta. It may be offered if you have a family history of genetic disorders, or if you have previously had an affected child.

Circumcision

This procedure involves surgical removal of the foreskin of the penis. It may be carried out for religious or cultural reasons or may be medically required.

Cleft Lip/Palate

Present at birth, a cleft lip is a vertical split in the upper lip. It may only be small or may extend up to the nose. A cleft palate means there is a gap in the palate - the roof of the mouth - which may be open to the nasal cavity behind. Both cleft lip/palate are usually repaired surgically.

For more advice and information visit the Cleft Lip and Palate Association: www.clapa.com.

Clicky Hips (Developmental Hip Dysplasia)

Babies are examined after birth to check whether they have ‘clicky hips’. This is a disorder where the head of the thigh bone does not fit properly into the socket. This condition more commonly affects girls and may be apparent in one or both hips. Treatment consists of splints worn for about 3 months until the condition corrects itself - the baby will be splinted into a frog-like position.

Cold Sores

Caused by the herpes simplex virus, which lies dormant most of the time, cold sores periodically appear around the lips. Regular treatments such as Zovirax are not recommended during pregnancy, and so a pregnant woman suffering from a cold sore should contact their doctor or a pharmacist for treatment advice.

If a baby/child develops a cold sore, advice should be sought from a doctor or pharmacist on how to treat this. Try to prevent a baby/child who has a cold sore from touching their eyes as this can spread the virus and cause a serious eye infection. Contact a doctor if a sore develops on or around the eye area.

Colds/Flu

Caused by viruses, these infections often occur frequently during infancy and childhood, as babies and children build up their immunity. Ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice on helping to soothe symptoms.

Colds/flu can sometimes lead to a secondary infection such as tonsillitis, ear infections, conjunctivitis and bronchiolitis. If the cold causes difficulties feeding, an infant may also become dehydrated.

If the mucus is more watery and accompanied by an itchy nose/sneezing or watery/itchy eyes then the child may be suffering from hay fever.

Colic

Many babies have crying sessions at particular times in the day - often in the early evening. We don’t know why, but it’s very difficult to cope with - and it can go on for hours.

Sometimes, especially in babies around 3 months, the crying is thought to be associated with colic - a kind of stomach cramp that comes in waves. Babies may scream and pull up their legs and they cannot be comforted. A doctor or pharmacist should be able to give advice on treatments for colic.

If you think your baby may have colic, keep a record of when and for how long your baby cries and consult your health visitor or doctor.

CRY-SIS is a support organisation for families having difficulty in coping with a constantly crying baby: www.cry-sis.org.uk.

Constipation - In Babies

Every baby will have a different pattern of bowel movements. It is possible, however, for some babies to experience constipation, particularly if they are being bottle fed. The most common cause of constipation in babies is dehydration.

If the baby is being bottle fed it is important to make sure that feeds are prepared correctly and it may be necessary to offer cooled boiled water between feeds.

Babies being breastfed are less likely to become constipated and stools tend to be softer and more frequent than those of formula-fed babies. If they do become constipated, however,  try to offer more feeds (making sure that you drink plenty of fluids as well).

For babies who have started weaning and who are constipated, try offering cool boiled water, or a little diluted fruit or prune juice in a beaker (diluted one part fruit juice to ten parts cool, boiled water), stewed prunes, or other stewed fruit.

Constipation - In Pregnancy

This can be a common problem. Drink plenty of fluids, and eat extra fibre - wholegrain breakfast cereals and bread and lots of fruit and vegetables.

Visit www.eatwell.gov.uk for more information about healthy eating during pregnancy.

Exercise also helps - for information on exercising safely during pregnancy click here.

If the problem persists discuss this with your GP.

Convulsions

Convulsions (or fits) can occur in young children and are frequently caused by a high fever or rapid rise in temperature (febrile convulsions). The area of the brain that controls body temperature does not fully develop until a child is around 4.

If your child has a convulsion, stay with them to make sure they come to no harm. They will usually go straight to sleep afterwards. Put them in the recovery position, on their side, and call the doctor or ambulance.

If your baby suffers from febrile convulsions and starts to run a high temperature, try to cool them down by removing extra clothes and bedding. Offer extra fluids (breastmilk, if breastfeeding, or cool, boiled water). Infant paracetamol or ibuprofen liquid preparations may also be given, but it is important that you follow the instructions on the pack. Check with a health professional for further information. 

Cot Death (SIDS)

Most cot deaths (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) occur in babies under six months. We do not know exactly why they happen, but some theories suggest that affected babies may have problems with regulation of breathing, or temperature control.

To reduce the risk of cot death:

• Do not smoke during or after pregnancy - and do not allow others to smoke around the baby

• ‘Back to sleep’ - put baby on his or her back to sleep, with feet at the bottom of the cot or pram (‘Feet to Foot’)

• Do not cover baby’s head (or use a hat) when they are asleep

• Avoid overheating the baby. Keep baby’s room at a temperature of around 18°C (bedroom temperature)

• Avoid excess bedding (bedding for babies). Do not use duvets, quilts or pillows for babies under 1 year old

• Check their tummy (not hands or feet) to make sure they are not too hot

• Do not put the cot next to a radiator, and place the cot out of direct sunlight making sure that it is not within reach of any kind of cord e.g. light or curtain pull

• It is ideal to have a new mattress for each new baby. However, if this is not possible check that the mattress is undamaged and that it is thoroughly clean before re-using.

• Don’t share a bed with your baby - particularly if you or your partner have been drinking, are very tired (or taking medication that causes drowsiness), if either of you smoke, or if the baby was premature or low birthweight

• Current advice is for babies to sleep in a cot in their parents’ room for the first six months

• Do not fall asleep with your baby on the sofa - it is not safe. Always put them back in their cot to sleep.
• Settling your baby to sleep (day and night) with a dummy can reduce the risk of cot death, even if the dummy falls out while your baby is asleep.(If breastfeeding, do not begin to give a dummy until your baby is one month old to ensure breastfeeding is well established.) Don't force your baby to take a dummy if he or she doesn't want it and never coat the dummy in anything sweet.
• If your baby is unwell, seek medical advice.
  

The Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths can provide more information, advice and support on cot death (SIDS) visit: www.fsid.org.uk.

You can download the Department of Health leaflet ‘reduce the risk of cot death by clicking here.

Coughs

Most babies and children suffer from coughs and colds which will clear up without treatment. If you are concerned about your baby’s cough, ask your pharmacist or doctor for advice. More information on coughs can also be found in the following sections: bronchiolitis and asthma.

Cows' Milk

Cows’ milk should not be given as a main drink until babies are at least 12 months, although small quantities may be used from 6 months of age in preparing baby foods. Cows’ milk used in preparing baby foods, or given to babies over 12 months, should be whole, full-fat milk (and you may prefer to choose organic milk for better nutritional content and taste). Semi-skimmed milk is not recommended for children under 2 years of age, and skimmed milk is not recommended under 5 years of age.

Cracked/Sore Nipples

Some mums find their nipples become sore or cracked when they start breastfeeding. To help avoid this, it is important to ensure that your baby is correctly positioned and has 'latched on' well (it's a good idea to seek advice from your midwife, health visitor or a breastfeeding counsellor). Check your baby is taking the whole of the nipple and surrounding area well in when feeding. Leave your nipples exposed to dry naturally if possible after feeding. Special nipple cream can also help to prevent soreness; ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

If you do become sore, you may need to give that breast a rest from feeding for 24 hours (or try using a nipple shield). Traditional remedies include putting a cabbage leaf over your nipple inside your bra.

Visit The Breastfeeding Network for more advice information and support: www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk.

Cradle Cap

This is very common in babies, has nothing to do with cleanliness or hygiene and it is not contagious. Cradle cap usually appears within the first 3 months of life, and generally clears up by the time the child is 2 years old. Thick yellowish scales cover parts of baby’s scalp.

Cradle cap requires no specific treatment and will eventually clear up on its own. if you wish, however, you can obtain special cradle cap shampoo, but perhaps the most effective treatment is to smooth some baby oil or olive oil on baby’s scalp, leave it for some hours or overnight to soften the scales and loosen them, and then wash it off with baby shampoo. Do not pick at the cradle cap or it may become infected. talk to your health visitor or doctor if you are concerned.

Cramp In Pregnancy

This can be common in legs or feet in the latter part of pregnancy. Firm massage can help, and flexing of the foot. Acupuncture may also relieve cramp in pregnancy.

Croup

Croup is quite common in babies and young children. It usually starts with cold-type symptoms. The airway from the throat to the lungs then becomes inflamed and restricted, causing noisy breathing and a harsh, barking cough. If your child has croup, and is distressed, sit them upright on your lap. This will provide comfort and reassurance and help to stop them crying, which makes symptoms worse. Coughing may be eased by steamy conditions, e.g. sit in a steamy bathroom with the child, or sit in the kitchen while a pan of water is boiling. Make sure nobody smokes around your child as smoke may irritate their airway. If your child has a high temperature, medicines such as infant paracetamol will help to lower it (follow the instructions on the pack). Occasionally croup may cause severe breathing difficulties - in this case seek medical assistance.

Crying

All babies cry - and some cry more than others. It is quite common for babies to have a regular crying session during the day - often around late afternoon/early evening. Some babies cry before they go to sleep. If babies become overtired they may cry too. Try the obvious causes - wet/dirty nappy, hunger - but sometimes babies seem to be inconsolable for no apparent reason. Excessive crying can be a symptom of colic.

If you are concerned about your baby’s crying, it may help to make a note of how often it occurs and how long it lasts, what time of day etc, and then discussing it with your health visitor or doctor.

If your baby cries excessively, it can be very upsetting. The support group CRY-SIS has a helpline available 7 days a week from 9am-10pm (08451 228 669) or you can visit www.cry-sis.org.uk for more information, advice and support.

Cuts/Grazes

Toddlers and children often fall over and suffer from cuts and grazes. Just clean the graze with warm water and cotton wool, pat dry, and use a dressing or plaster if necessary

Cystic Fibrosis (CF)

Cystic fibrosis is a serious genetic disorder whose main feature is the secretion of sticky viscous mucus - not only in the nose, throat and airways, but also in the intestines. Highly specialised treatment for CF - drugs, physiotherapy, special diet - improves quality and length of life.

Visit the Cystic Fibrosis Trust for more information: http://www.cftrust.org.uk/

Newborns are routinely tested for CF at about 7 days - as part of the newborn blood spot screening or 'heel prick' test.  Click here for further information