Advice after your nerve block for surgery
On this page…
This page has helpful links and information for you and your new baby.
Go to the following birth section of our maternity website. There you can find:
- community visits – who will come to see you and your baby
- contact numbers – how to call us if you need help
- feeding – where to get advice and support about feeding your baby
- caring for your baby – how to look after your little one
The first days with your baby are a great time to get close and bond. You can do this by:
- keeping your baby close
- enjoying skin-to-skin contact
- feeding when they show signs of hunger
Babies feel safer if most feeds are given by mum or dad, especially in the early weeks.
Feed your baby when they show hunger signs, like:
- moving their head and mouth
- sucking on fingers
- crying is the last sign, so try to feed before they cry.
See the Start for life guide for more details.
- Hold your baby close in a semi-upright position
- Look into their eyes and talk to them
- Switch sides each time you feed
- Gently rub the teat on their top lip so they open their mouth
- Keep the bottle almost flat (slightly tipped) so milk doesn’t flow too fast
- Watch for signs they need a break: turning head, pushing bottle away, spilling milk
Your baby knows how much milk they need. Don’t force them to finish.
- Any brand of first infant formula is fine
- Cows’ or goats’ milk formula is okay
- Ask your midwife before using soy formula
- Stick to first infant formula for the first year
Special milks for colic, reflux, or allergies usually don’t help and might not be safe. Ask your health visitor if you’re worried. To help you make an unbiased choice about which formula milk to use, see First Steps Nutrition Trust.
When your baby turns one, they can drink full-fat cows’ milk. If you have questions, ask your health visitor.
It’s normal for babies to cry, but it can feel hard. There are tips and support to help you cope when your baby cries a lot.
Frimley Healthier Together has helpful information about what signs to look for if your baby is unwell and what you should do.
Watch this short video to learn how to put your baby to sleep safely. It will show you how to lower the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome).
Breastfeeding is the healthiest way to feed your baby. If you stop, you can restart. Giving formula to a breastfed baby will lower your milk supply. You don’t need special foods while breastfeeding, just eat a healthy diet.
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Maternity service.
About this information
Service:
Maternity
Reference:
M/050
Approval date:
20 April 2026
Review date:
1 April 2029
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.