Health tips for the fourth trimester

Bite-sized guidance from our midwives — written for Nigerian families.

Midwife gently bathing a newborn in warm water during a home visit
Bath time

Warm water, calm hands — one of baby's favourite rituals.

Nigerian mother breastfeeding her newborn with a comfortable latch
Feeding

A good latch is the foundation of easy feeds.

Happy Nigerian family bonding with their newborn through skin-to-skin contact
Bonding

Skin-to-skin and shared smiles build a secure baby.

Feeding

The first latch: 5 signs baby is drinking well

Look for rhythmic jaw movement, audible swallows, a wide-open mouth and relaxed hands after a feed.

Recovery

Caring for a C-section wound at home

Keep the incision dry, wear loose cotton, and call your midwife if you notice redness, warmth or discharge.

Mental Health

Baby blues vs postpartum depression

Tearfulness in the first two weeks is normal. Persistent sadness beyond that deserves professional support.

Newborn

Cord care in the Nigerian climate

Keep the stump clean and dry — no palm oil, no methylated spirit unless prescribed. It usually falls off in 7–14 days.

Sleep

Safe sleep for your newborn

Back to sleep, on a firm mattress, no pillows or heavy blankets. Room-share for the first 6 months.

Nutrition

Foods that support breastmilk supply

Ogi, oats, moi-moi, palm-nut soup, plenty of water and iron-rich green leafy vegetables.