Give OM the flick with breastfeeding

Did you know when babies are born; hearing is their only fully developed sense?

During their childhood they may experience temporary hearing loss as a result of Otitis Media or middle ear infections.

If a child can’t hear, they may develop speech, language and learning difficulties. Their social, physical and emotional development may be affected as well as their long-term education and employment opportunities.

Signs of otitis media include:

• Cold symptoms
• Pain in the ear
• Fever
• Runny fluid or pus from the ears

There are a range of others which you can view here.  Sometimes kids with otitis media may have none of these symptoms so it’s a good idea to get their ears checked every time you’re at the doctors.

Why breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding from birth helps bubs strengthen their immune system, to fight off colds and infections that lead Otitis Media.

If you’re bottle feeding position the baby in an up-right position. Feeding them on their back allows the milk to flow from their mouth to the tubes that connect the back of the throat to the ear. If fluid gets trapped in there, germs can grow in it and cause ear infections.  

We want your feedback!  We're interested in finding out who is listening, reading and using the resources we're producing for the Listen `Ear project.  

Have a go at our survey for a chance to win a $50 voucher!  The first twenty to respond will also receive an ear health bag containing information about Otitis Media and special story book (pictured).

Please forward this email to others who you think may be interested.

Listen `Ear is funded under the National Indigenous Ear Health campaign, an Australian Government initiative.