6 week old

How your baby's growing

Ever since she was born, your baby has been growing more and more attached to you and your partner. By now, she may make it obvious that you're her favourite people, by cooing and kicking with pleasure when she sees you. And the more you cuddle, tickle, and play with her, the greater your chance of seeing her first real smile soon.

Your baby’s also becoming more sensitive to her surroundings. For example, you may notice her responding to sudden noises, such as the doorbell. She may jump, cry or even go quiet, as she tries to understand this surprising new sensation.

It’s likely that your baby’s favourite sounds will be the voices of you and your partner. Make the most of every opportunity to talk, read, sing or make noises at her, which she’ll love.

Even if your baby doesn’t understand what you’re talking about, letting her hear your voice is a great foundation for learning to talk later on. It doesn't matter what words you use. You could point out objects around the room and describe their colours and shapes, give a running commentary of what you're doing, or talk about family and friends.

Your life: your postnatal check

At some point in the next few weeks, your GP should offer you a postnatal check-up, to make sure that you and your baby are doing well. If you have any questions or concerns, or if you're having any trouble coping, your postnatal check is a great time to bring it up.

Many new mums feel overwhelmed, particularly if they're dealing with colic or suffering from postnatal depression (PND). Your GP will have seen it all before, and she's not there to judge you. She'll simply offer extra help and support. Of course, you can also call your health visitor at any time.

Your GP may offer you a physical examination to make sure you're healing well. You can also talk to her about nutrition, to make sure you're not low in iron. She'll probably also mention contraception, and help you work out which is the best method for you.

If you're feeling ready to have sex again, it may be worth trying it before your postnatal check. That way, if you experience any discomfort, you'll be able to bring it up while you're at the surgery. But there's no need to rush it. Keep up with your pelvic floor exercises, as these can help to make sex more satisfying when you're ready to try it again.

Chat about sex and romance after a baby with close friends who've been there, and be sure to always keep communicating with your partner as you explore your changing relationship as new parents.

What you need to know this week

• It can be frustrating if your baby sleeps more during the day than at night. These sleep strategies may help to turn things around. In the meantime, experiment with our 10 ways to get more sleep yourself.
• Post-baby bodies come in all shapes and sizes. See our 10 surprising facts about your body in the fourth trimester and check out our slideshow of mum bellies to reassure yourself that your recovery is normal.
• If you’re formula-feeding or mixing breast and bottle, your periods could start again soon. It's possible to conceive two weeks before your period starts, so you may want to start thinking about contraception now.
• If you're exclusively breastfeeding on demand, you’re less likely to conceive while your baby is under six months old. But if you want to be totally safe, there are contraceptives you can use while breastfeeding.
• Featured video: through the eyes of a child: your newborn to six month old.

Let’s play

You don't need a pile of baby toys to have fun with your little one. Explore two games that won't cost you a penny, and will give your baby plenty of amusement.

FAQs at 6 weeks

• Which is better – dummy or thumb?
• What are the dos and don'ts of swaddling?
• Is it safe to eat spicy food when breastfeeding?
• What colour should my breastfed baby's poo be?