Breastfeeding

We know that most mums choose to breastfeed initially, whether that is breastfeeding all the time, or intermittently supported with formula. How your baby feeds is crucial to healthy development and growth, so it is important to find out as much as possible breastfeeding before you begin.
Breastfeeding is a skill that can take time to develop. Here, we provide links with information on many of the common questions people have, including the basics of breastfeeding, but also where to look for support on a range of related issues.
It is normal to have some worries or concerns. Reaching out to your health visitor or midwife or joining a local breastfeeding support group can be a great source of help.

NHS Better Help Start for Life

The NHS Better Health page has a wealth of information on breastfeeding and has sections with information on the following:

How to breastfeed, including images and a video with a step-by-step guide
Expressing milk (the process of extracting milk out of your breasts in order to store it and use it to feed your baby later) including advice on how to do express by hand, with a pump, and storing the milk
Common breastfeeding challenges including baby complaints like colic and constipation, but also information on what to do if you develop sore nipples, mastitis or infection of the breast
A healthy diet whilst breastfeeding including caffeine, alcohol, foods to choose and avoid, and vitamin use
A section on breastfeeding in certain situations, including if you take any medicines, have questions about birth control, further information on alcohol/illegal drug use whilst breastfeeding, and breastfeeding with breast implants
Advice on breastfeeding in public, including your rights (it is unlawful to be discriminated against for breastfeeding in public spaces under the Equalities Act)
Benefits of breastfeeding, including nutrition for baby and aiding their immune system
Information on breastfeeding and return to work

Visit: NHS Better Help Start for Life

The Breastfeeding Friend

The Breastfeeding Friend is a digital tool that is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It may provide answers to your questions, even in the middle of the night. It is available on Facebook messenger.

Visit: The Breastfeeding Friend

Other Sources of Help & Support

A list of helplines and other organisations providing support during breastfeeding are available here.

National Breastfeeding Helpline

The National Breastfeeding Helpline offers friendly, non-judgemental, independent, evidence based breastfeeding support and information to anyone in the UK who needs it.