In touch with your baby

Being aware of your unborn baby at all times is the first stage in bonding with her and making sure you have a good relationship in the future. Keeping in touch means you'll be aware of what's best for your baby's physical and emotional health.

Get in touch with your baby

It's never too early to start getting in touch with your baby. What you say, do, think, or feel, even the way you move, may be carried through to your baby in your womb.

Talk and sing

Get in the habit of talking out loud to your baby, and singing to her. Some children have recognized lullabies played to them when they were in the womb. Play music to your baby.

Touching

Stroking your baby through your tummy is another way of keeping in touch. It will usually quieten her, and stroking her may continue to do so after she is born. In the final months you may be able to feel her foot or hand through your skin.

Thinking

Be aware of your baby. Think positive, happy thoughts about her. If you're upset about something, don't shut her out.

Moving

Keep your movements as relaxed as you can. The gentle movement of your womb as you walk soothes her. Rocking and swinging will remain a favourite relaxing activity after she's born.

Feeling

When you feel happy and excited, so does your baby. When you feel depressed, so does she - so reassure her that you still love her. Share feelings with her consciously.

What your baby does to get in touch

Even while still in the womb, your baby is a little personality, with many ways of interacting with her world.

Movement

She moves constantly while she's awake. She'll kick and wriggle her body in response to what's happening outside - for instance, if you sit in a position she finds uncomfortable.