My baby has a fever with body temp of 38.5 degrees celcius. He is very clingy. He has had some food and breastmilk, but I'm not sure what else to do to settle him.
Our midwife Melissa says:
"Babies can be very unsettled when they are sick, and this is one sign that you can look for in your baby to let you know that all is not well.It is very normal for babies to be clingy when they are sick.They do this for a few reasons: first, because it is a new experience for them and they can’t yet make sense of what they are experiencing.
As adults, we know why we are sick and how long we are likely to be sick for, but babies don’t have this knowledge.Babies cling to their parents for extra reassurance and comfort.They also do this to increase the mother’s milk production because breast milk contains antibodies that can help babies fight infection.
If your baby is sick, he needs unrestricted access to breastfeeding and cuddles and lots of rest."
This article was written for Birth by midwife Melissa Maimann from Essential Birth Consulting.
To read more about your baby and fever
Last revised: Friday, 4 January 2013
This article contains general information only and is not intended to replace advice from a qualified health professional.