Newborn support

The Swakopmunder Clinic offers free Newborn support service for all.

Tuesday mornings 09:00 and 13:00.

This service includes weighing your baby, gentle feeding support and advice, and time to talk through any common challenges in the early weeks.
We would love to meet you and support you during this special time.

Common Questions

Is my baby getting enough milk?

Most newborns feed 8–12 times in 24 hours. It sounds like a lot… because it is! In the early weeks, it can feel like you’re feeding all day.

The good news? This is completely normal. Your milk, your warmth, and being close to you are exactly what your baby needs.

The most reassuring sign is steady weight gain. We aim for about 200 g per week. You’re welcome to pop in to Swakopmunder Clinic on Tuesday mornings for a free weight check.

Other good signs:

  • 6+ wet nappies a day after day 5
  • Regular yellow stools
  • You can hear baby swallowing
  • Baby seems settled after feeds

If you’re ever unsure, please ask for help. You’re not expected to figure it all out alone.

How do I latch my baby?

Get comfortable first, using pillows or a footrest if needed.

Hold baby close, tummy to tummy, with their nose level with your nipple.

Wait for a wide-open mouth, then bring baby to the breast (chin first).

A good latch means baby’s chin is tucked into the breast, nose is free, and lips are flanged out.

If you’re unsure, or breastfeeding is painful (which doesn’t necessarily mean you’re doing anything wrong), don’t struggle on your own. Reach out to an experienced friend, a lactation consultant, or pop in to Swakopmunder Clinic and we’ll gladly assess the latch with you.

Can you Overfeed a breastfed baby?

Many parents worry that every cry means their baby is hungry. But babies also want the breast for comfort, closeness, warmth, or simply to help them settle.

Before offering another feed, try a cuddle, gentle rocking, burping, a nappy change, or a little walk outside. If baby is still showing hunger cues, go ahead and feed them.

The good news is that it’s very difficult to overfeed a breastfed baby. Babies are excellent at regulating how much milk they need, and they often feed for comfort as well as nutrition.

Does baby need anything other than Breastmilk?

For healthy, full-term babies, milk is all they need for about the first 6 months.

Around 6 months, baby is usually ready for solids when they:

  • Can sit unsupported
  • Have lost the tongue-thrust reflex
  • Can pick up food and bring it to their mouth
  • Show interest in what you’re eating

Starting solids earlier doesn’t help babies sleep longer or increase overall calorie intake.

Don’t rush it. Over the next 18 years you’ll make around 20,000 meals for your child. 😉