your baby is very nearly ready for birth. By week 36 her lungs are almost fully mature, her brain is very well developed, and she's been busy building up a store of fat and glycogen to give her energy during labour and the first few days. By the end

or later it will happen.Learning the techniques of breastfeeding for both mother and newborn can also be a tricky business. I found holding the baby in the correct “latching on” position to be an art harder than macramé and one that needs mastering

. Immediately after birthSleeping and visitorsHow do I look?Afterpains and bleedingGoing to the looChills and sweatsWindImmediately after birthThe first few minutes after birth are a busy time. In amongst health checks, weighing, nose suctioning, cleaning

little to a time when he's still alert enough to eat well, and keep him nice and busy in the period leading up that. Some babies will prefer a long late-morning sleep, in which case the transition may be a bit easier.At playAs your toddler's fine motor

are so busy being mummy and daddy that they find it difficult to find time to nurture their partnerships. But changing your behaviour just a little on a daily basis can help you make time for each other. At the end of the day when all the children

still won't understand a lot of what your toddler says to you, but listening is very important never-the-less. You obviously can't hang on every 'word', particularly when he's busy chattering away ten to the dozen, but if you pay close attention when he

on showing that he can.He's been busy working on his manual dexterity and can now open many doors, cupboards, bottles, lids and quite possibly a few of your baby-proof fasteners too, so keep a sharp eye out and update anything that's no longer effective. He

to expect a level of support." If you’ve had to take time off and your employer thinks it’s been placing excessive strain on the business, they have to tell you so, and you will need to work together to develop a solution to the situation. Despite your best

and put your feet up if you can. You'll get tired far more quickly in hot weather, so listen to your body and rest whenever you feel the need. The last thing you need in hot weather is to be in busy crowds or cramped conditions, so try and avoid those

of help and advice. The Ectopic Pregnancy Trust offers a wealth of information and support, including a telephone help line (0207 733 2653, 10 - 4 on work days) as well as a busy support forum. There are also, of course, many waiting and sympathetic ears