Sweet tasting solutions.

You know how chocolate gives you that happy feeling? The same thing happens to babies!

Although breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact are recommended as the best way to comfort your baby during painful procedures, sweet tasting solutions can also reduce their pain during procedures.

If you are nervous about being with your baby for the procedure, sweet tasting solutions are a great way to provide pain relief when you can’t be there.

The process

In hospital:

• Your nurse is usually the one who can give sweet tasting solutions to your baby

• You can help provide comfort during the procedure by swaddling and holding your baby, as well as letting your baby suck a gloved finger or soother for added comfort

• Your nurse will give a small amount of sweet tasting solution directly to your baby’s tongue 2 minutes before the painful procedure and will give more during the procedure to keep them comfortable

Outside of the hospital:

For procedures outside of the hospital, like immunizations, you can make your own sweet tasting solution!

• Mix 1 teaspoon of sugar with 2 teaspoons of water

• Give your baby a small taste before and during the procedure

Remember, this solution should only be used to relieve pain during procedures and cannot be used to soothe babies who are upset for another reason. Always consult your healthcare provider before giving a sweet tasting solution.