It’s #NationalBreastfeedingWeek, and everyone has a part to play in helping mums to breastfeed 👶
Supporting breastfeeding
Dads, partners and family are a hugely important source of breastfeeding support. There are many ways you can get support with breastfeeding e.g. Midwives, peer supporters, breastfeeding cafes, helplines, grandparents, everyone plays a unique role. Why not offer to cook food for the family, or provide childcare for any older children? This helps parents to focus on becoming a family unit. Here are a few more ways you can support someone who is breastfeeding:
- Attend antenatal or breastfeeding sessions.
- Make her comfortable with extra pillows.
- Bring her some to drink and a snack.
- Help by being involved in the baby’s care e.g. change their nappy.
Happy baby
A happy baby isn’t just a fed baby. Every cuddle, smile and interaction counts, for you and your baby. Here are some top tips for keeping your little one happy.
- Sing songs and rhymes with your baby.
- Talk to your baby about anything and everything.
- See if your baby can copy you when you stick out your tongue.
- Try baby massage.
Breastfeeding in public
Breastfeeding in public may make you feel nervous, but you have a legal right to breastfeed anytime and anywhere. No-one can ask you to leave a public place while you’re breastfeeding. Read these top tips below to make you feel more comfortable
- Fortunately, the majority of people don’t notice.
- Look out for Breastfeeding friendly stickers in windows.
- If you feel self-conscious, try to remind yourself that you are doing the most natural thing for baby.
- If you are asked to leave somewhere, you are within your rights to challenge that request.
Breastfeeding and work
If you’re returning to work after maternity leave, you might wonder whether you can continue breastfeeding your baby. It’s completely possible and many women do it. Here are some tips for breastfeeding and going back to work.
- See if there is an option for you to work flexibly.
- Try and find childcare close to work so you can breastfeed in your breaks.
- Experiment with mixed feeding – breastfeeding at home and expressing milk at work.
- Your workplace is legally required to provide suitable facilities for you to rest or express (and it shouldn’t be a toilet.)
Our services
Our Health Visiting services are here to support you with breastfeeding, feel free to contact them for support on the details below:
Bromley 0 to 19
Call 0300 330 5777 or email bromh.bromley0to19@nhs.net
Bexley 0 to 19
Call 0300 330 5777 or email bromh.bexley0to19@nhs.net
Greenwich 0 to 4
Call 0300 330 5777 or email bromh.greenwich0to4@nhs.net