Ask the Expert

NiS is supported and advised by medical experts including GP and TV doctor Dr Chris Steele, health journalist, medical author and GP Dr Sarah Brewer, and consultant paediatrician Dr Colin Michie.

Dr Sarah Brewer answers a number of commonly asked questions

Q: I've heard that massaging my baby after changing his nappy is good for him. How do I do this?

A: It is thought that the healing power of touch means that babies who are massaged regularly are more active, fall asleep better and gain more weight than unmassaged babies - as well as being better tempered, more sociable and less likely to cry.

Only start to massage your baby if he is in good health and has passed his six-week health check.
Wash your hands thoroughly before you start and remove any jewellery and your watch.
Play some quiet, relaxing music. Show your baby lots of love and affection during the massage and talk or sing quietly to him throughout, maintaining eye contact as much as possible.
Make sure the room is warm, wrap your naked baby in a fluffy towel and place him on a soft changing mat on the floor.
Pour a little baby oil or lotion into your hands and rub them together to warm them.
Gently stroke your baby's chest using sweeping, gliding motions that are firm enough not to tickle but gentle enough not to hurt. You can also make small circular motions with your thumbs.
Repeat the massage on his arms, tummy, legs and back.
Be careful holding your baby afterwards as he will be slippery!

Some babies get upset during their first massage. If so, wrap your baby in the towel and cuddle him close. Try again another day.

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