It is recommended that wherever possible, babies are exclusively fed breast milk for the first six months. At birth, giving your baby a long cuddle: Skin to skin contact for up to one hour, calms both mum and baby, it regulates baby’s heart rate and temperature, and stimulates mothering hormones which helps to form a close bond and increase breast milk supply. Baby’s immediate needs are to feel safe and secure, and to be able to feed whenever hungry. Holding your baby close to feed, and responding to all of baby’s needs encourages healthy brain connections. Most of this development will occur within the first two years. Responsive parenting will enable your baby to reach its full potential, to be able to form good relationships and communicate well, giving them the best start in life.
How to tell your baby is having lots of milk:
Remember, your milk fulfils all of your baby’s needs for around six months. It also reduces the incidence of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Ordinary supermarket cow’s milk should not be offered until your baby reaches one year, although it is suitable to use from six months in breakfast cereals.
It is important to find a position that is comfortable and safe.
There are lots of different positions for breastfeeding. You just need to check the following:
If you want further resources on bottle feeding and formula please visit:
https://www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly/baby-friendly-resources/leaflets-and-posters/simple-formula-guide-for-parents/
for safe, evidence based information
For breastfeeding support groups or one to one assistance, ask your health visitor or Children’s Centre for a list of local services.
Have you been shown how to hand express? This is a really useful skill, and it’s free!
Go to your local Breastfeeding Support Group for details. Ask your health visitor for extra advice and support.