Feeding my baby

Breast or bottle?

Whether you are breastfeeding or bottle feeding we have information and support that might help with any issues you may be having.

woman breastfeeding

Breastfeeding

Breast milk is specially made for each individual baby by the mother, for the baby’s need at that time, with all the fluid (drink) and nutrition (food) a baby requires, with ongoing benefits after food is introduced from six months.

Mother’s milk is also packed with amazing antibodies which are really important in building your baby’s immune system. Those antibodies play an essential role in protecting your baby from many illnesses and reducing the risk of some illnesses later in life too. 

Breastfeeding has long term health benefits for mum too, as well as reducing environmental waste – it’s good for everyone and the planet!

There may be times when breastfeeding is challenging. Never ignore any issues you may have – talk to your health visitor, midwife, or breastfeeding specialist as soon as possible, they will be able to help you sort it out quickly. Information on local and national support is below.

Talk to someone now about breastfeeding

  • If you're breastfeeding and need support, just text our Community Infant feeding team on 07312 263233 for confidential NHS advice. A member of the team responds within working hours and will chat with you via text, listening, asking questions and providing support in confidence.
  • For confidential breastfeeding information and support, call the National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212. Lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Online support with bottle feeding

If you've decided to bottle feed, you may be worried about what formula to buy, what equipment you'll need and how to get the hang of feeding your baby when everything is so new.

The NHS start4life website can provide you with lots of helpful information and advice on bottle feeding. This includes:

  • How to make up a feed
  • How to bottle feed
  • Bottle feeding challenges

The NHS website has lots of practical information on bottle feeding.

Have a look The Breastfeeding Network website for advice on introducing a bottle.

Local support for you

Whether you're breast feeding, bottle feeding or both, we have baby feeding drop in sessions for mums, dads and carers across the district!

Sessions are delivered by both baby feeding specialists and trained peer support volunteers.

Take a look at our family hub timetables  to find your a session that suits you. You will also find information on our health visitor and midwife clinics that are also held in family hubs.

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