RCH logo
⚠ Microsoft outage

Due to a global Microsoft outage, our email services are not working. If you're experiencing an emergency, call Triple Zero (000). If you need to make urgent contact with the RCH, the hospital phone number is (03) 9345 5522.

Victorian Government caretaker period

As the Victorian State election will be held on Saturday 28 November 2026, the Victorian Government will assume a Caretaker role from 6pm on 3 November 2026. During the caretaker period, content will only be added to this website in accordance with the Caretaker Conventions. See Guidelines for Caretaker Conventions.

COCOON

Ready to feed

  • The decision to start oral feeds is a team decision and this team includes you.

    It is based on your baby's:

    • medical status
    • ability to maintain stability with breathing and heart function
    • ability to digest the milk
    • ability to cope with the positioning and handling associated with feeding
    • ability to remain alert for feeding
    • ability to communicate hunger and fullness
    • ability to suck, swallow and breathe

    Find out more about reading your baby's feeding cues and infant-led feeding below