# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
If you are breastfeeding during pregnancy, you may be wondering what happens after your new baby is born. Nursing a new baby while an older one is still nursing is generally referred to as tandem nursing. This could be after a pregnancy and the arrival of a new baby or having adopted a new nursling while continuing to feed your older child.

Thinking about tandem nursing will likely involve considering and weighing up many variables. As a breastfeeding mother, you are aware of how important nursing is to your relationship with your older child. Deciding whether to continue breastfeeding him along with a new nursling or to wean him deserves careful consideration of both of your changing needs. Many mothers find making this decision particularly difficult. You may be drawn to both options at different times. Taking one day at a time may be helpful if you are unsure of what to do. Getting support in making your decision will give you confidence that you are doing what is best for you and your child.

If you do decide to tandem nurse, you are not alone! Many mothers have tandem nursed two, or even three, children and found that it works for their family. Children who have been tandem nursed often continue to have a special bond throughout life, and mothers report that tandem nursing can help to ease the transition of having a new baby in the family.

Why tandem nurse?

Continuing to breastfeed your toddler through the stressful and highly emotional experience of gaining a sibling can help to make the transition smoother for them. They are less likely to be jealous of the baby who is allowed to breastfeed if they can nurse alongside them. The nutrition and immunological properties of breastmilk continue to be valuable and they can help your toddler through any illness, tantrums and fussy phases ("regressions"), which can sometimes occur. Nursing your older child once the new baby arrives can ease engorgement when your milk becomes plentiful and helps protect milk production if your baby is not feeding effectively.

Breastfeeding during pregnancy

Breastfeeding during pregnancy is a special experience for both you and your nursling and recent research on the safety of nursing during pregnancy shows that there is usually no reason for concern (you can read more about this here). Your breastfeeding relationship may change throughout pregnancy to accommodate both your developing needs and the needs of your child. Around the fourth or fifth month (sometimes before), pregnancy hormones will probably cause your milk supply to reduce and its composition and taste to change. These changes may cause some children to nurse less or wean completely (you can read more about this here).

Nursing whilst pregnant continues to meet your child's nutritional and emotional needs and it can be an opportunity for you to savour your unique relationship with your older child, before your baby joins the family. However, it can also be a challenging time for you and it may invoke intense feelings. Getting support at this time may be very beneficial, and you may find talking to an LLL Leader or going to your local LLL meeting really helpful. Our Pregnant and breastfeeding? article has more information.

Preparing yourself and your toddler for a new baby

Adding a new baby to the family has a big impact, no matter if it's your second, or your tenth! Children, particularly younger ones, may not feel emotionally ready to accept this big change easily. It is a good idea to prepare your toddler and any older children by talking about a new baby coming. Reading stories together and showing them pictures of babies nursing can help them to be more accepting when their sibling arrives.

Many mothers find that they don't receive the same offers of support during second or subsequent babies as they did for their first. It is important to remember that as a mother nursing two children (or more), any support given will allow you to focus on mothering your new family. Try to get plenty of rest and eat well before the new baby comes. Actively preparing your support network before your baby arrives will make the transition easier for you all. LLL groups are a great place to meet like-minded mothers whose support can transform your mothering journey.

Labour and birth - tandem style

You may be wondering how you will be able to provide for your older child during labour and whether she will be able to nurse or not. Having a dedicated caregiver for your older child who is able to give her expressed milk (if necessary) and get her to sleep will allow you peace of mind if you are unable to provide for her during labour.

You may want to think about whether to have your older child with you during labour and birth or soon after the new baby arrives. If you are planning a hospital birth, you can inquire about access for your toddler and inform your medical team that you will want your toddler to be present during or soon after the birth. Some nursing mothers opt for a home birth, which usually allows more freedom for your older child to be included whenever you want her too.

Breastfeeding releases oxytocin and can help to progress a slow labour. However, many mothers prefer to focus on the act of birthing and choose not to have their older child with them until the new baby has arrived.

Your baby's first breastfeed is a really special time. If your older child breastfeeds at the same time, this special moment will be part of their memories too.

Any stitches you have had from a tear, episiotomy, or C-section will need to heal and you may find positioning your baby, older child or both challenging and may need a helping hand.

Premature birth or complications

When a baby arrives early or there are birth complications, it can be a really difficult and stressful time, which often involves a hospital stay and being separated from your older child. Although your newborn will need to take priority, trying to have your toddler for short visits whenever possible can be really helpful. If your newborn is unable to nurse right away, your older child can continue nursing and protect your milk production.

The early days - what to expect

When you give birth your body will continue to produce colostrum, with milk becoming plentiful after around 3-5 days. As with your previous baby, you will need to nurse at least 8-12 times per day to establish your milk production. You may worry about your newborn not getting enough colostrum if your older child is feeding too. Some mothers feed their newborn baby first or encourage the older sibling to nurse less if they feel their baby is not feeding enough. Look out for feeding cues and give your baby unrestricted access to your breasts to help ensure he gets plenty of milk. The more milk is removed, the more will be produced. Feeding cues to watch for include rapid eye movement, moving hands, squirming or rooting. Good positioning and a deep attachment at the breast will help your newborn feed effectively. Encourage your baby to finish one breast before switching to the other.

If you are expressing milk for your baby, your toddler's nursing will help your supply. Hands-on expressing while your toddler is nursing may be particularly effective.

See our page Is My Baby Getting Enough Milk for further information.

Toddler nursing like a newborn?

You may find that once your baby arrives your toddler starts nursing frequently again, just like your baby. Older siblings may enjoy increased milk supply, or simply be thinking about breastfeeding more as they see the baby breastfeeding often. If your toddler does increase his milk intake, he may lose interest in solid foods for a while as he enjoys your newly increased milk production. He may have looser stools.

If you are happy to nurse your toddler as much as he wants, it can be a lovely bonding experience for the three of you. However, if you are feeling overwhelmed by his requests or not keen on nursing so frequently, you might like to try negotiating with your toddler about when and for how long he is allowed to breastfeed. See 'Feelings' section for more ideas.

Separately or together?

You may prefer nursing your baby and your toddler separately or breastfeeding both nurslings together. Your older child can access your breast in many creative ways!

It can take a while before your body adapts to the needs of two different nurslings. Sometimes you may feel lopsided if one breast has been drained more than the other. Eventually things will settle down and you'll have your own individual rhythm. Alternating breasts for each feed helps with development of newborn vision and keeps the size of your breasts balanced. However, some mums find that giving a toddler his 'own side' works for them.

Tandem nursing positions

Just as with nursing one child, there are many different tandem nursing positions you can use which are comfortable and allow for milk to be removed effectively. You may need to experiment to find out what works for you when feeding two nurslings at the same time. Your older child might also have strong opinions about how she likes to nurse!

If you plan to tandem feed out of the house, it might be worthwhile practising a few positions at home first, so you know you can get both nurslings on and off easily. Some mothers find it easier to position the baby first and let the toddler climb on, while others prefer to position the toddler first and then add the baby.

Double cradle hold

Your toddler is positioned curled around or underneath your baby, with each child's head supported by your arms.

Double underarm (clutch or rugby) hold

Your toddler sits or semi-reclines with legs pointed away from you. Your baby is held underarm with his feet away from you. This position is good for protecting caesarean stitches or if your toddler sometimes kicks or disturbs your baby.

Double side-lying hold

Your toddler is positioned laying down next to you, then the baby is perched on top of your toddler.

There are many other variations and combinations of the above positions which you can try.

For more information about feeding positions for a single baby, see Positioning and Attachment.

Fast flow

With each pregnancy your body makes more milk and an abundant milk supply/forceful let-down can be challenging for your newborn. Your older child might oblige and deal with the fast flow; otherwise, expressing just a little milk into a towel until the flow eases may help your newborn.

Feelings

Tandem nursing is a big commitment and emotions can run high at times. You may experience huge highs, deep lows, find it too demanding, and think it is magical, all within a short space of time. It can feel as if it will be this way forever, but it might be helpful to remember that babies are small for a short period of time and the dynamics between you and your two (or more) nurslings will soon change. Having realistic expectations about what you can manage at this point in time can be helpful.

As a tandem nursing mother, you and your breasts are a focal point for nourishment and care for both of your nurslings. This can feel overwhelming and at times you may feel breastfeeding aversion or agitation. This can manifest itself in feeling 'touched out' and having the urge to limit your toddler's nursing. Your reaction may be mild or quite severe with strong urges to stop feeding your older child.

Many mothers report that the nursing agitation they feel is not an accurate reflection of their feelings about breastfeeding or their relationship with their toddler. In this case it may be helpful to do some detective work about why you may be feeling like this. You might realise that you are unwell, need more rest, are not eating well, are stressed about something, or are experiencing a bit of mother burnout. Prioritising self-care and having some time alone can really help to rebalance your mind and recharge. Carving out time for yourself, even if it is only 10 minutes, can give you the strength to manage. Taking time to rest is also important, and you can try to take advantage of daytime opportunities for a nap.

If you want to put some limits on your toddler's nursing, you might like to try negotiating with your toddler about when he is allowed to breastfeed, setting gentle limits about the length of his feeds by counting or singing, or pre-emptively offering snacks or playing games with him.

Finding support from other tandem nursing mothers gives you an opportunity to talk things through with someone else. LLL meetings are a great place to meet tandem nursing mothers.

Looking after yourself

When tandem feeding, you may be constantly thirsty, hungry and tired. It's important to look after yourself by taking every opportunity to rest together and by eating plenty of nutritious snacks and meals. Feeding both children at the same time during the day is a great opportunity to try putting your feet up and relaxing. Accepting offers of help with shopping, housework and cooking from family and friends can be extremely helpful. Taking a few moments to nurture yourself can help avoid feelings of stress or exhaustion.

Self-care is an essential part of mothering, particularly when your body is undergoing such large changes and ongoing demands.

Try to make your needs clear to your partner/support person, as they will be better able to help you if they know what you need. Trying to keep expectations realistic reduces stress for you and the rest of the family. Particularly in the early days, your priority is looking after your new baby and older child(ren), so be kind to yourself.

Eating for Three

Tandem nursing puts physical demands on your body as you produce enough milk to nourish two children. Fatigue can be a warning sign that you are not keeping up with your calorie intake requirements. It is a good idea to drink to thirst and eat as normal using your appetite as a guide.

Nighttimes

Managing bedtimes with two nurslings can be a bit tricky. If you plan to breastfeed both children to sleep you might find you can feed both simultaneously lying down, then move one child once asleep. Or it might work better to have someone else available to hold/entertain one child while you nurse the other to sleep, then nurse the second child to sleep afterwards.

It is possible to nurse both children during the night, but you may need to do some experimenting and find out which positions work for you. See our Safe Sleep and the Breastfed Baby article for more information on safe sleeping practices.

You may choose to night wean your toddler, but this might result in considerable effort and sleep-loss in the short term during the weaning period. It is helpful to consider whether night-weaning will lead to more sleep for you or if it will be more disruptive. If you do decide to night-wean, it can be helpful to have someone else put the toddler to sleep and go to them if they wake during the night.

Becoming a big brother or sister

Children react in many different ways to the birth of their new sibling. It is common for children to find it difficult to adjust to a new family member. As a tandem nursing mother, you may find that nursing your toddler (with or without baby) offers a welcome sanctuary from the stresses of the new family dynamic. Tandem nursing siblings often have an added bond as children and can have a special relationship throughout their lives.

Occupying your toddler while your baby is nursing

Keeping your toddler occupied while breastfeeding your baby may be a challenge you have not faced before. It can work well to set clear expectations about breastfeeding, so your older child understands what he is allowed to do during nursing time. Some older children react well if you give them a warning before you start breastfeeding your baby. It might also work well if you feed your baby in a sling, so your older child may not even notice your baby is nursing.

Here are some ideas to occupy your toddler while you are nursing your baby:

Have a special "breastfeeding toy box" which is only brought out when you are nursing your baby

Ensure your toddler has got a snack and drink prepared beforehand to eat while you are nursing

Share a book and a cuddle with your toddler while nursing your baby

Play verbal games with your toddler, for example "I spy"

Ask your toddler to help you out, for example bringing you a nappy, a muslin etc.

A time for weaning

For some mothers tandem nursing continues for quite a while. Others decide that weaning an older child and nurturing their relationship in a different way works better for them. If you decide to stop breastfeeding your older child, keep in mind that it may be a gradual process and one which needs gentle encouragement and patience.

Our Thinking of Weaning? article has information on weaning strategies. Talking to an LLL Leader can help you decide what is going to be best for your family.

Adopting a second nursling

Choosing to breastfeed your adopted baby is a wonderful way of bonding with her. As a mother who is already nursing another child, you are in the good position of already having a milk supply flowing. You will probably need to increase your supply to cater to your new baby's needs. See our article on Relactation and Induced Lactation for more information on how to increase your supply and how to supplement your baby if needed.

Tandem nursing your adopted baby and your toddler can create a special bond between all three of you which could last for life. However, breastfeeding your adopted baby may be challenging and you will benefit from a strong support network. Your local LLL meetings can be a great place to find this support.
Written by Bronwyn Davies, LLL West Kent, July 2018
Further Reading

Birth and Breastfeeding
Is my baby getting enough milk?
Dealing with criticism
Nipple Pain
Pregnant and Breastfeeding?
Relactation and Induced lactation
Safe Sleep & The Breastfed Baby
Still nursing?
Thinking of Weaning?
Toddlers and Food
When you don't enjoy Breastfeeding

Other articles published by La Leche League International
Breastfeeding during pregnancy and tandem nursing Setting limits when breastfeeding Hilary's adventures tandem nursing Breastfeeding during pregnancy and tandem nursing: is it safe? Recent research
Books

Adventures in Tandem Nursing. LLLI, Schaumburg, IL. La Leche League International, 2003
Breastfeeding Answers Made Simple. Morbacher, N. Amarillo, TX: Hale Publishing, 2010

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If you are breastfeeding during pregnancy, you may be wondering what happens after your new baby is born. Nursing a new baby while an older one is still nursing is generally referred to as tandem nursing. This could be after a pregnancy and the arrival of a new baby or having adopted a new nursling [...]

# data[].attributes.body
Newborn infants can really benefit from lots of skin to skin, not just immediately after birth but as an on-going tool to help them become accustomed to life outside of the womb as well as to stimulate feeding instincts.  Milk supply is really enhanced by skin to skin too as it promotes the milk making hormones, Prolactin and Oxytocin:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This video explores skin-to-skin contact, a practice at the heart of the Baby Friendly standards which supports feeding and relationship-building.

Skin-to-skin contact as soon as possible after the birth is a special time for mother and baby and is a fantastic opportunity for helping them both recover from the birth and to get to know each other through all the senses.

This video, produced by the Unicef UK Baby Friendly Initiative, covers both the theory and practice of skin to skin, and what it can mean to mothers and babies meeting each other for the first time.

Find more relationship building resources

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Meeting baby for the first time video - Baby Friendly Initiative

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Skin-to-skin contact as soon as possible after the birth is a special time for mother and baby and is a fantastic opportunity for helping them both recover from the birth and to get to know each other through all the senses.

# data[].attributes.body
Newborn babies need feeding very frequently in the early weeks, not only because their tummies are little and fill and empty quickly but also because this frequent feeding is really good to build mum’s milk supply.  You can feed responsively by spotting your baby’s early feeding cues:

# data[].attributes.headline
Baby Led Attachment Sometimes babies who are finding it difficult to attach at the breast can really benefit from finding their own way there using a technique called Baby led attachment.  Trying lots of skin to skin with baby in a vertical position on your chest will allow them to turn on all of their feeding instincts

# data[].attributes.subject
Baby Led Attachment Sometimes babies who are finding it difficult to attach at the breast can really benefit from finding their own way there using a technique called Baby led attachment.  Trying lots of skin to skin with baby in a vertical position on your chest will allow them to turn on all of their feeding instincts

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Description

With Dr. Tina Smillie and Kittie Frantz, RN, CPNP-PC
film available in English, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, German, Chinese, & Dutch
Let Baby Lead the Way...
In Baby-Led Breastfeeding, we see babies of different ages, with different gestational ages and breastfeeding difficulties ALL seeking the breast and attaching. Mother's viewing baby after baby doing this often realize that their baby can do it also. In this film we see just how babies can do it...when we get out of the babies' way.

Dr Smillie began observing this in her post-discharge pediatric lactation practice. After learning of this phenomenon from Dr. Smillie, Kittie Frantz began to use this same approach first in a private pediatric practice and then at Los Ageles County University of Southern California Medical Center. All physicians and maternity staff at LAC+USC were trained to place the baby prone on mom's chest and watch baby move toward the breast and attach asymmetrically, The staff love it as it saves them time at the bedside and works so easily. Staff also noted a dramatic reduction of nipple soreness and a dramatic decrease in maternal requested formula. The parents react so enthusiastically to see their smart baby do this! Baby-led breastfeeding takes the performance anxiety away from the mother and shows her that the baby is a true valuable partner in the success of breastfeeding.

"We don't have to our babies learn to feed−we just them to follow their instincts to learn."

Running time: Approximately 16 minutes in length, plus over an hour of bonus footage!

DVD - ISBN # 978-1-885748-79-9
View our YouTube video promo below!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Baby-Led Breastfeeding - The Mother-Baby Dance

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
With Dr. Tina Smillie and Kittie Frantz, RN, CPNP-PC film available in English, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, German, Chinese, & Dutch Let Baby Lead the Way... In Baby-Led Breastfeeding, we see babies of different ages, with different gestational ages and breastfeeding difficulties ALL seeking the breast and attaching.

# data[].attributes.body
Lots of issues with breastfeeding are caused by a problem with positioning and attachment at the breast.  These links will show you what to look for:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
In this video, a breastfeeding counsellor helps a mother with her positioning and attachment whilst breastfeeding.

Key to achieving the Baby Friendly standards is a workforce able to support mothers to breastfeed effectively. This video provides some guidance on this.

You can see more of the 'From Bump to Breastfeeding' DVD on the Best Beginnings website.

Video not working? Contact us

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Positioning and attachment video - Baby Friendly Initiativ

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In this video, a breastfeeding counsellor helps a mother with her positioning and attachment whilst breastfeeding. Watch to learn more.

# data[].attributes.body
The following link takes you to a Breastfeeding Assessment Tool.  Some mothers find this a useful questionnaire to complete themselves to review how feeding is going.  If anything comes up from this that you are concerned about, please do contact your midwife, health visitor or children's centre for a more detailed conversation around feeding:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
These tools are for mothers to fill in with their midwife or health visitor and use several common signs to assess whether a baby is breastfeeding well and safely.

Please note that once the assessment has taken place, if there are any unticked boxes on either of the forms you will need to observe a full breastfeed.

For further help on having compassionate and effective conversations with mothers, please see our guidance on antenatal and postnatal conversations.

Breastfeeding Assessment Tool (maternity) - How you and your midwife can recognise that your baby is feeding well

Breastfeeding Assessment Tool (health visiting) - How you and your health visitor can recognise that your baby is feeding well

Breastfeeding Assessment Tool (neonatal) - How you and your nurse/midwife can tell that breastfeeding is going well

Breastfeeding Checklist for Mothers - How can I tell that breastfeeding is going well?

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Breastfeeding Assessment Tools - Baby Friendly Initiative

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
These tools are for mothers to fill in with their midwife, neonatal nurse or health visitor and help to assess how a baby is breastfeeding.

# data[].attributes.headline
Effective Sucking and Swallowing on the Breast

# data[].attributes.subject
Effective Sucking and Swallowing on the Breast

# data[].attributes.body
It can be really useful to look at what effective, active feeding at the breast looks like and compare this to just nibbling at the breast.  Compare the two videos entitled ‘Nibbling’ and ‘Really good drinking’ on the following link:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Breastfeeding Videos – International BreastFeeding Centre

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A set of videos which shows how breastfeeding works, how to know if a baby is getting milk, what is a good latch, using a lactation aid, using breast compressions, tongue tie, tongue tie release, vasospasm.

# data[].attributes.body
Vitamin D drops are recommended for all breastfeeding infants as well as those who are combination feeding and taking less than 500ml infant formula per day:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This information can also be viewed as a PDF by clicking here.
The information provided is taken from various reference sources. It is provided as a guideline. No responsibility can be taken by the author or the Breastfeeding Network for the way in which the information is used. Clinical decisions remain the responsibility of medical and breastfeeding practitioners. The data presented here is intended to provide some immediate information but cannot replace input from professionals.
In 2012 the Chief Medical Officer in the UK made recommendations about supplementing all pregnant and breastfeeding mothers and children with Vitamin D. There seems to remain a lot of confusion as to who should take these supplements, why this is necessary and how to obtain them. The recommendations were updated in July 2016 in line with the SACN recommendations on vitamin D and health.

Breastfed babies from birth to one year of age should be given a daily supplement containing 8.5 to 10mcg of vitamin D as a precaution (SACN 2016)

Breastfeeding Mothers should also take a daily Vitamin D supplement of 10 µg per day

Vitamin D deficiency in the UK is a consequence of our weather and the latitude at which we live.

Breastmilk is perfect for babies

Vitamin D drops should be given to babies on a teaspoon as droppers are hard to sterilise

Healthy Start Vitamins remain an excellent, economic source of vitamin D and are provided free of charge in many areas. The daily dose of 5 drops contains 10µg www.healthystart.nhs.uk/for-health-professionals/vitamins/

Babies born to mothers with low vitamin D status are at risk of developing rickets. Taking into account that MOST of us are deficient between October and April at best and MANY of us will have low levels throughout the year, the recommendation that ALL pregnant women should take a supplement of 10 µg Vitamin D per day throughout pregnancy is sensible and cost effective (Prevention of rickets and vitamin D deficiency in Birmingham: the case for universal supplementation).

Babies born to mothers who have not taken a vitamin D supplement in pregnancy are likely to be born with low vitamin D status. Levels of vitamin D in that mother are also likely to be low and even if she begins to take a supplement herself at that time, cannot redress the baby's deficiency by breastfeeding. So the recommendation is that the baby should receive its own oral vitamin D drops containing 7-8.5µg per day from 4 weeks of birth until the age of 5 years. Waiting until the baby is 6 months may be too late to prevent development of symptoms. Mothers may also develop symptoms of deficiency themselves.

Although it was thought that levels of vitamin D stores laid down in pregnancy by a mother who has taken vitamin D supplements in pregnancy would be sufficient for a few months,
new recommendations (July 2016) are that breastfed babies from birth to one year of age should be given a daily supplement containing 8.5 to 10mcg of vitamin D, to make sure they get enough ( www.nhs.uk/Conditions/vitamins-minerals/Pages/Vitamin-D.aspx). In addition breastfeeding mothers should take a daily Vitamin D supplement of 10 µg per day - in fact as more and more conditions are linked with lack of vitamin D most of us would benefit from taking it regularly.

In children; rickets, delayed tooth eruption, increased risk of infection, decreased bone mass, hypocalcaemic seizures, delay in walking.

In adults; osteomalacia, muscle weakness, bone pain plus possible association in many other conditions.

Mothers who are diagnosed with vitamin D deficiency may be prescribed very high dose supplements. Papers looking at these doses are scarce. Hollis and Wagner (2004) concluded that "Maternal vitamin D intakes of 4000 IU/d appear to be safe and to provide sufficient vitamin D to ensure adequate nutritional vitamin D status for both mothers and nursing infants. Hollis et al 2015 that "Maternal vitamin D supplementation with 6400 IU/day safely supplies breast milk with adequate vitamin D to satisfy her nursing infant's requirement and offers an alternate strategy to direct infant supplementation.

For information on high dose vitamin D prescribed for breastfeeding women see https://breastfeeding-and-medication.co.uk/fact-sheet/high-dose-vitamin-d-supplements-and-breastfeeding

Oily fish including trout, salmon, mackerel, herring, sardines, anchovies, pilchards, and fresh tuna

Cod liver oil and other fish oils

Egg yolk; 0.5 micrograms (20 IU) per yolk)

Mushrooms

Supplemented breakfast cereals typically contain between 2 and 8 micrograms (80-320 IU) per 100 g

Margarine

The average dietary vitamin D intake of young women in the UK approximates 3 micrograms per day and fewer than 1% consume more than the 10 micrograms (Williams 2007). The National Diet and Nutrition Survey of British adults suggest that if such a threshold were investigated in the UK population data, some 80-90% would be deficient (Henderson 2003).

The main source is Ultraviolet B sunlight exposure; more than 90% of mankind's vitamin D supply is derived from exposure UVB in sunlight. Deficiency of vitamin D in the UK is predominantly caused by poor weather, increasing use of high factor sunscreen (more than factor 8), and latitude: those born north of approximately Birmingham (40°N) are unlikely to be able to reach sufficient exposure.

Sunlight exposure needed is 2 hours per day (if only the face exposed), 20-30 minutes a day if the face, arms and neck are exposed without sunscreen. Sun protection factor in excess of 8 prevents absorption of the UVB sufficient to make vitamin D. Need increases for those with darker skins. In all cases it is important to avoid sunburn, particularly in babies.

Those who are eligible for Healthy Start vouchers receive free vitamin tablets and drops containing the correct dose of vitamin D for mothers and children.

Those not eligible for Healthy Start may purchase vitamin supplements form pharmacies and Health Food Stores - please check that they contain 10µg for adults and at least 7-8.5µg for children (usually 10 µg).

Vitamin D deficiency in the UK is a consequence of our weather and the latitude at which we live. The addition of vitamin D to formula milk does not make it better than breastmilk - it does not contain all the immunological properties that make breastmilk specific to cater for each baby's needs.

Some mother and infant groups have been shown to be at increased risk, including:

Babies of mothers with darker skin types

Pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Babies born in the winter months and not exposed to the sun

Babies and mothers who wear concealing clothing, preventing skin exposure to sunlight

Babies and mothers who spend a lot of time indoors or use sun creams, reducing exposure to sunlight

Babies of obese mothers (BMI >30)

Babies of mothers with gestational diabetes.

Ahmed SF et al. Recent trends and clinical features of childhood vitamin D deficiency presenting to a children's hospital in Glasgow. Arch Dis Child 2011;96:694-6 http://adc.bmj.com/content/96/7/694.full.pdf+html

American Academy of Paediatrics Prevention of Rickets and Vitamin D deficiency in infants, children and adolescents 2008 http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/122/5/1142.full.pdf+html

CMO Vitamin D supplements for at risk groups. dh.gov.uk/prod_consum_dh/groups/dh_digitalassets/@dh/@en/documents/digitalasset/dh_132508.pdf

Department of Health. Vitamin D an essential nutrient for all, but who is at risk of vitamin D deficiency? http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/+/www.dh.gov.uk/prod_consum_dh/groups/dh_digitalassets/documents/digitalasset/dh_111302.pdf

Henderson L, Irving K, Gregory J, et al. The National Diet and Nutrition Survey: adults aged 19 to 64 years. Vol 3. Vitamin and mineral intake and urinary analytes . London: Stationery Office, 2003: 1-160.

Hollis BW, Wagner CL. Vitamin D requirements during lactation: high-dose maternal supplementation as therapy to prevent hypovitaminosis D for both the mother and the nursing infant. Am J Clin Nutr. 2004;80(Suppl 6):1752S-1758S

Hollis BW, Wagner CL, Howard CR, Ebeling M, Shary JR, Smith PG,Taylor SN, Morella K, Lawrence RA,Hulsey TC, Maternal Versus Infant Vitamin D Supplementation During Lactation: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Pediatrics 2015;136 (4):

Jones W. Breastfeeding and Medication Routledge 2018

Michie C. Managing vitamin D deficiency in children. London Journal of primary care July 2010 londonjournalofprimarycare.org.uk/articles/3186685.pdf

NHS Choices. nhs.uk/news/2012/01January/Pages/vitamin-d-medical-advice-and-supplements.aspx

Prevention of rickets and vitamin D deficiency in Birmingham: the case for universal supplementation. infantfeedingwm.org.uk/documents/Website_VitD.pdf

SACN Update on Vitamin D 2007. sacn.gov.uk/pdfs/sacn_position_vitamin_d_2007_05_07.pdf

SACN Vitamin D and Health 2016 www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/537616/SACN_Vitamin_D_and_Health_report.pdf

©Dr Wendy Jones MBE, MRPharmS and the Breastfeeding Network June 2020

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Vitamin D and Breastfeeding - The Breastfeeding Network

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This information can also be viewed as a PDF by clicking here. The information provided is taken from various reference sources. It is provided as a guideline. No responsibility can be taken by the author or the Breastfeeding Network for the way in which the information is used.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This leaflet offers advice and information for parents on getting to know their baby and setting up the foundations for a close and loving relationship.

We now know that building a strong relationship between parents and their new baby will give them the best possible start in life and will help them to grow up happy and confident. This leaflet is free to download and helps parents to develop that strong relationship, starting in pregnancy and continuing into the early days, weeks and months of a baby's life.

Health professionals may want to use this leaflet in conjunction with the Baby Friendly guide to antenatal and postnatal conversations and accompanying signature sheets.

Printed copies cost £15 per pack (1-9 packs) or £11 per pack (10 or more packs). There are 50 leaflets per pack and this price includes P&P within UK. Order using the Baby Friendly Resources order form, which you can download from our Resources page.
Please note: Orders for UK delivery only, and include postage and packaging costs. Orders may take up to 7 working days to process. The Baby Friendly Initiative reserve the right to re-print items at any time. If you are looking to order audit tools or e-learning please use our digital resources order form. Our myth buster posters show the key Happy Baby messages in bright and colourful poster form - find out more.

Building a Happy Baby: A Guide for Parents

Baby Friendly standards

Support to build a close and loving relationship is a key element of the Baby Friendly standards. Find out more about embedding our standards in your service.

Find more relationship building resources

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Building a happy baby: A Guide for Parents Leaflet - Baby Friendly Initiative

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This leaflet helps parents to get to know their baby and to set up the foundations for a close and loving relationship.

# data[].attributes.body
As you approach the point of going back to work, it can be useful to think about making a plan for how breastfeeding can continue around work.  The following resource may help:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Published by the Department of Health and the Baby Friendly Initiative, this leaflet provides mothers with information about continuing to breastfeed when going back to work or study.

Going back to study or work may be the first time you have been separated from your baby for long periods. Continuing to breastfeed helps to keep the close relationship you've built up, providing your baby with extra comfort and security for as long as you both want.

You don't need to stop breastfeeding just because you're returning to study or work. Many women find ways to continue breastfeeding their baby - and employers have certain obligations towards breastfeeding women.

The last section in this leaflet sets out how employers can make it easier for you to do so - show this leaflet to your employer.

Visit ACAS to find out more about pregnancy and maternity rights, as well as breastfeeding at work.
Please note this leaflet is currently unavailable

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Breastfeeding at study or work - Baby Friendly Initiative

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This leaflet provides mothers with information about continuing to breastfeed when going back to work or study.

# data[].attributes.body
The following link from the Breastfeeding Network will give you all the information you need on storage of breastmilk:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This page gives you some tips on how to hand express and store your breastmilk. It also answers some frequently asked questions on this topic.

You might be thinking of returning to work, or study, or planning a night out. It can also help relieve pressure from a blocked duct or mastitis. Expressing small amounts of colostrum before your baby is born can help give your baby extra milk in the first few days.

Please also refer to our downloadable leaflet on Expressing and Storing Breastmilk.

If you will be exclusively expressing (feeding only expressed breastmilk), whether for just a few days or longer, you might like to read our blog post on this.

Note: If your baby has been ill or was born prematurely please discuss this information with your health professional to check that the storage times apply. This is especially important if you are bringing your colostrum or milk into hospital for your baby.

Your breastmilk

Can be expressed by hand, by hand pump or by electric pump. Once you know how, hand expressing is easy and needs little equipment.

Contains anti-infective ingredients that limit the growth of unwanted bacteria.

Should still be handled and stored carefully to stop unwanted bacteria from getting into your milk and growing.

Stays at the highest quality when stored in a fridge, particularly when running at 4°C or below. Note: some fridges run higher at 5-10°C - if you don't know the temperature of your fridge assume it is running at this higher temperature.

Can be frozen, which affects some (but by no means all) of the nutrients and anti-infective ingredients of breastmilk.

Expressing breastmilk

When you first start to express it is common to get only a few drops of milk. As with breastfeeding, the more you practice, the easier it gets. Expressing at a different time of day may work better for you.

When might I need to express?

Before your baby is born - you may be advised that your baby might need extra milk when they are born. You can express and store your first milk (colostrum) from 36 to 37 weeks gestation. You can read more about this here.

In the first few days - if your baby is sleepy, or to help them attach and feed.

For both these stages your midwife will give you small oral syringes to collect your milk. These are usually 1ml to begin with.

Use the ideas in this leaflet to discover what works for you. Colostrum usually starts in tiny droplets and is often sticky - having help to collect these drops in the syringe can be useful.

Aim to express twice a day from 36-37 weeks for no more than 10 minutes, freezing the same day.

Once your baby is born, express as needed aiming to stimulate your breasts at least 8 times a day including once overnight through direct breastfeeding or expressing as this will increase your milk supply to meet your baby's needs and can help you feel more comfortable.

Hand Expressing

Once your milk is flowing, you will need a wide mouthed container like a sterile plastic pot or container that is well-cleaned and scalded with boiling water - a jug is ideal - so get this ready before you start.

Remember to wash your hands first.

Find somewhere comfortable to relax, then to help your milk to flow (let down) you might:

Relax with a warm drink, music or TV.

Have your baby close, or look at a photograph, clothing or toy to remind you of your baby.

Warm your breasts in a bath, shower or using warm flannels and practice expressing.

Try some ways to gently massage your whole breast, working from the outside toward your nipple.

Take care not to drag your skin:

Stroke with your fingertips

Roll using your knuckles.

Try using circular movements.

Make a 'C' shape by placing your thumb above and your fingers below your breast 2-3 centimetres back from your nipple

Gently press your thumb and fingers together, release your fingers and repeat in a rhythmic movement.

Sometimes pressing inwards back towards your chest wall as you squeeze helps. You may need to experiment with how far back from your nipple to squeeze - everyone is slightly different.

When the milk flow slows, re-position your fingers and thumb (as if moving them around a clock face), then express another area of your breast.

Try to express all areas of your breast and alternate between breasts.

See this video on hand expressing from UNICEF for more ideas.

Good hygiene is very important:

Always wash your hands before expressing and handling breastmilk and ask others giving expressed milk to do the same.

Always use a sterile container with a lid, not the collection jug, to store your breastmilk. You can buy disposable containers. Take care with plastic bags that can puncture easily.

Try to use a different storage container each time you collect milk. If necessary, newly collected milk may be cooled and added to previously stored milk on the same day only.

Label the storage containers or syringes with your name, breastmilk, time and date and put inside a clean sealed bag or box before storing. Name and date the bag too.

Store your breastmilk in the fridge or freezer as soon as possible.

Store away from meat products, eggs or any uncooked foods. Store at the back of the fridge and not in the door.

Storing expressed breastmilk

How long can I keep my breastmilk at room temperature if a fridge is not available?

If your breastmilk is freshly expressed it will keep for 6 hours without refrigeration, either at home or away from home. See 'travelling with breastmilk' section below for more details.
If your baby has been ill or was born prematurely please discuss this with your health professional to check that the same storage times apply.
How long can I store breastmilk in the fridge?

You can store your breastmilk for up to 3 days where you don't know the temperature, or it runs between 5-10°C.

Breastmilk can be stored for 5 days in a fridge running at 4°C or lower.*
*One study has shown fresh breastmilk can be used for up to 8 days when the fridge temperature is kept stable at 4°C or below.

If the fridge temperature goes above 4°C during this time, use your milk within 6 hours or throw away.

If you can't use a fridge at 4°C, try using a cool bag or box with deep frozen ice packs (changed every 24 hours). Protect your milk from direct contact with the ice packs or it may freeze - try wrapping the ice packs in kitchen towel. The bag can also be used to carry milk.

The lower the storage temperature, the longer expressed breastmilk can be stored. The storage temperatures given here include a degree of caution so that your milk remains safe for your baby.

If you wish to store your breastmilk for longer than 5 days, freeze as soon as you can after expressing.
If taking colostrum or milk into hospital follow their storage and transport times. REMEMBER: The more often the fridge door is opened, the more likely the temperature will rise. Try to check the temperature of every fridge (or cool bag) used for storing your milk each time you use it. If the fridge has no built in thermometer, use a fridge thermometer which can be bought cheaply from kitchenware stores.
How long can I store breastmilk in the freezer?

Breastmilk can be stored in a freezer at -18°C for up to six months.

You can store breastmilk in the ice compartment of a fridge for two weeks.

Safe Storage of breastmilk in the home

This table aims to provide a guide to how long you can store breastmilk for a full term baby with no additional health concerns.

Why are there variations in recommendations for storing expressed breastmilk?

More information about this can be found at the bottom of this page.

Please note that previous versions of our leaflet are still available in our shop and the information is still correct, noting the above.

Feeding baby expressed breastmilk

What happens if my baby doesn't take all of one bottle? Can I put it back in the fridge or on the side use it again?

Once the baby has drunk from a bottle of expressed milk it should be used up within an hour or thrown away. To avoid wasting your expressed breastmilk it is best to offer the baby only a little (e.g. 30ml) at a time until you know your baby's pattern. You can do this by keeping most of it in one container, in the fridge, and using it to top up the baby's bottle a little at a time.

Defrosting frozen breastmilk

How do I defrost my milk?

Ideally, defrost frozen breastmilk in the fridge. This milk should be used once fully defrosted which usually takes about 12 hours. If your breastmilk is still frozen after this time or you need to use it quickly, try defrosting under cool, then warm, running water. Dry the outside of the container with kitchen paper before use and use immediately. If you frequently find your milk is frozen after 12 hours in the fridge, try to freeze in smaller quantities.

How long can I keep defrosted breastmilk?

Defrosted breastmilk should be used straight away once it has fully defrosted. Throw away any unused milk.

Why can't I defrost breastmilk in a microwave?

Breastmilk should not be defrosted in the microwave because it heats unevenly, destroying antibodies and nutrients. There is also a risk of scalds and the milk would need to be left at room temperature before use.

Travelling with expressed breastmilk

How do I bring my milk home, which I have expressed at work or elsewhere?

Try to use a cool bag for transportation and put the milk in the fridge once you are home.

Fresh breastmilk can be transported within 24 hours provided storage temperatures are maintained using an insulated box or bag and deep frozen ice-packs, and total storage and transportation times do not exceed the recommended storage times.

Previously refrigerated breastmilk can be kept cool (10°C or below) for up to 24 hours when in a well-insulated bag with deep-frozen ice-packs. Take care not to freeze your milk by wrapping the ice-packs in kitchen paper first. Ensure this milk is used within the recommended refrigeration storage times as mentioned above.

Re-heating expressed breastmilk

How do I re-heat expressed breastmilk?

Expressed breastmilk can be used straight from the fridge. It does not need to be warmed. If you would like it warmed place the container (such as a bottle or sealed cup) in warm water to take the chill off. Take care not to over warm.

If the milk smells sour DO NOT USE.

When stored, the cream and milk may separate out. This is normal. Shake gently to mix before use.

Some babies are reluctant to take milk from a bottle, particularly at first. Try offering milk from a cup or spoon. They may be less reluctant when someone else gives it. If expressed milk is refused try not to worry - your baby will make up any missed feeds by breastfeeding more often or for longer on your return. See also info on this page about introducing a bottle.

Finding a breast pump

The two UK breast pump hire companies are:
Ardo breast pumps Medela breast pumps
Your midwife, health visitor or a local breastfeeding supporter may also be able to give you details of pump hire services near you.

Useful links
Human Milk Foundation
UKAMB (UK Milk Banks - find out about donating or receiving milk)
Milk Bank Scotland
Antenatal Expressing - more detailed information about this

References

(links checked May 2023)

Cook, P. Food Standards Agency. MCN10. 2006 Handling and storage of expressed breastmilk pp1-12 https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ph11/documents/mcn-consultation-expert-report-handling-and-storage-of-expressed-breast-milk2

Eglash, A, Simon, L, and The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine, ABM Clinical Protocol #8: Human Milk Storage Information for Home Use for Full-Term Infants, BREASTFEEDING MEDICINE Volume 12, Number 7, 2017 (c) Mary Ann Liebert, Inc. pp390-395 https://abm.memberclicks.net/assets/DOCUMENTS/PROTOCOLS/8-human-milk-storage-protocol-english.pdf See correction to freezer temp here: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6065517/

Forster, Della A et al. (2017) Advising women with diabetes in pregnancy to express breastmilk in late pregnancy (Diabetes and Antenatal Milk Expressing [DAME]): a multicentre, unblinded, randomised controlled trial. The Lancet, Volume 389, Issue 10085, 2204 - 2213 https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(17)31373-9/ppt

Hands A. (2003) Safe storage of expressed breastmilk in the home. MIDIRS Midwifery Digest, vol 13, no 3.

Royle, J. Weaver, G. (2016) Guidelines for the Preparation and Handling of Expressed and Donor Breast Milk and Special Feeds for Infants and Children in Neonatal and Paediatric Health Care Settings. 2nd Ed. Section 6, p18-32
BDA Guidelines for the Preparation and Handling of Expressed and Donor Breast Milk and Specialist Feeds for Infants and Children in Neonatal and Paediatric Health Care Settings
IMPORTANT: If you have any further questions on expressing or breastfeeding, do contact your midwife, health visitor or breastfeeding supporter for help and support. You can also call the National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212, open 9.30am-9.30pm every day of the year.

Page reviewed and updated November 2019

Variations in Recommendations for Storing Expressed Breast Milk

Written by Anabel Hands

In 2003, aware of the confusion for mothers resulting from the significant variations in recommendations for storing expressed breast milk, the BfN decided to collate all available information from primary research papers, and national and local guidance documents. These findings were published in the MIDIRS Midwifery Digest 1. The study found that storage temperature clearly determines storage time. Recommended storage times given in our Expressing and Storing Breast Milk leaflet were based on the primary research papers discussed in the study. You can find the link to this leaflet below for more information 2.

Our publication was sent to other breastfeeding organisations, including the Department of Health (DH), to facilitate agreement on storage recommendations using the results of primary research. The DH asked the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) to review breast milk storage guidelines, and official storage recommendations were changed from 24 hours in the fridge to up to 5 days at 4°C or lower, two weeks in the ice compartment of a fridge and up to six months in a freezer (March 2008) 3.NICE also recognised that refrigeration preserves the unique properties of breast milk more effectively than freezing. The National Health Service (NHS) adopted these guidelines, which appear in their leaflet Off to the best start (updated November 2009) which you can find a link to below 4.

Although a little different to BfN guidelines, the NICE and NHS recommendations took into account that fridge temperatures can vary and that a 5-day storage time covered most situations, including the need for milk expressed at the end of one working week to be used at the beginning of the following week. Some busy hospital neonatal units restrict the time milk is refrigerated as an added precaution; this is because their fridges are opened very frequently, which may affect the storage temperatures 5.

Other breastfeeding organisations, such as La Leche League, updated their published recommendations to distinguish between acceptable storage (8 days in the fridge) from ideal storage (72 hours in the fridge), and also recognised that refrigerated expressed breast milk was preferable to frozen breast milk (March 2012) see link below for more information. These recommendations are in line with the BfN leaflet 6.

It is important for mothers and breastfeeding supporters to note that leaflets and recommendations inconsistent with the published research are still in circulation, particularly on the Internet, and that countries outside of the UK may recommend different guidelines.

Please note that previous versions of our leaflet are still available in our shop and the information is still correct, noting the above.

References

1. HANDS A. Safe storage of expressed breast milk in the home. MIDIRS Midwifery Digest, vol 13, no 3, Sep 2003, pp 378 & 385.

2. BfN (Breastfeeding Network) leaflet. Expressing and storing breast milk. September 2004.

3. National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) Public health guidance 11: Maternal and child nutrition. March 2008.

4. Department of Health. Off to the best start. Crown Copyright 2007 278957 5p 200k Nov 09 (BEL) 299223.

5. MCN consultation: Expert report & Handling and storage of expressed breast milk. 05 April 2007.

6. La Leche League International. "The Breastfeeding Answer Book" Updated March 2012.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Expressing and storing breastmilk - The Breastfeeding Network

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This page gives you some tips on how to hand express and store your breastmilk. It also answers some frequently asked questions on this topic. You might be thinking of returning to work, or study, or planning a night out. It can also help relieve pressure from a blocked duct or mastitis.

# data[].attributes.body
It is important that your baby has control of how much they take from the bottle as well as the speed at which they feed.  Responsively bottle feed by looking out for feeding cues to know they are hungry, as well as signs that they want to take a pause from the bottle or that they are full will make feeding effective and minimise the risk of over feeding.  Have a look at the following guide to Responsive Bottle feeding:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This simple, concise guide provides parents who are bottle feeding with an overview on how to bottle feed responsively and, for parents who are formula feeding, how to choose an infant formula.

Bottle feeding as responsively as possible can help support the development of a close and loving parent-infant relationship. More tips on building a close and loving relationship with babies can be found in our Building a Happy Baby leaflet for parents.

UNICEF UK's Baby Friendly Initiative is firmly committed to the promotion, protection and support of breastfeeding. However, in the UK bottle feeding remains very common and so we also work to ensure the best outcomes possible for babies when they are not breastfed. When considering use of our materials outside of the UK, we suggest taking into account the country context and individual needs before deciding whether or not our materials are suitable for use.

Further reading

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Infant formula and responsive bottle feeding - Baby Friendly Initiative

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This guide provides an overview on how to bottle feed responsively and, for parents who are formula feeding, how to choose an infant formula.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
First Steps Nutrition Trust is an independent public health nutrition charity. We endeavour to fill practical and policy-relevant information gaps and provide resources for health workers supporting eating well from pre-conception to five years.

Our Mission

To influence policies which enable the safe, appropriate and optimal feeding of infants and young children in the UK, and to protect them from commercial interest.

To ensure that the importance of good nutrition from pre-conception to age five remains on everyone's agenda.

To provide conflict of interest-free information on infant milks marketed in the UK, and to promote better regulation and marketing of breastmilk substitutes.

To provide resources for health workers to support them in their work with pregnant women and young families.

Our Resources:

Are put together by nutrition experts and are regularly updated.

Can be used in Unicef UK Baby Friendly Initiative accredited settings.

Are available as free pdf downloads for use by anyone promoting better public health on a not-for profit basis.

Everyone who works at First Steps Nutrition Trust feels passionately about the need for better information and support for good nutrition - and good food - from pre-conception to five years.

First Steps Nutrition Trust is supported by generous individual donations and conflict of interest free grants. First Steps Nutrition Trust does not work with organisations or individuals that work with, or take funding from, the breastmilk substitute industry and we reserve the right not to sell them our subsidised resources.

First Steps works with and supports a number of organisations including Unicef UK Baby Friendly Initiative, the Baby Feeding Law Group, the Obesity Health Alliance, the Children's Food Campaign and the APPG on Infant Feeding and Inequalities.

First Steps Nutrition Trust host and regularly update their partner site infantmilkinfo.org which contains comprehensive information about infant milks (for 0-12 month olds) available on the UK market.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
First Steps Nutrition Trust is a charity which provides clear, evidence-based and independent information and support for good nutrition from pre-conception to five years of age.

# data[].attributes.body
Hand expressing is a really useful technique for mums to know about for a whole range of reasons: from relieving fullness to help baby to latch, to resolving a blocked duct to expressing for baby to take milk in a bottle.  See the link below for more information on how to hand express:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This video guides mothers through how to hand express, and talks about the times when hand expression might be useful.

See the Breastfeeding Network website for FAQs and a leaflet all about expressing and storing breastmilk.

Problems viewing this video? Please contact us

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Hand expression video - Baby Friendly Initiative

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
See the Breastfeeding Network website for FAQs and a leaflet all about expressing and storing breastmilk. Problems viewing this video? Please contact us

# data[].attributes.body
All babies go through developmental leaps.  Being aware of what is going on for your baby developmentally may help you to understand why they need more cuddles and comfort, milk and nutrition from one week to the next:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Our sanity saving, all explaining apps. The must have 'original', our AudiBook app and our newest Milestone Memories app.

# data[].attributes.body
The Breastfeeding Hub App has a whole range of helpful videos with regards to achieving a comfortable, effective feed.  You can also use it to find out about where is breastfeeding friendly if heading out and about:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How a child's brain develops through early experiences

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
I was a bit scared when we found out we were having a baby, obviously happy, but a bit scared and in the beginning I was a bit clueless. The child development part is my favourite bit, but there's things in there, like things about mental health, that I didn't know about and that I didn't know you needed to know about.

Ross, 22

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
DadPad | The Essential Guide for New Dads | Support Guide for New Dads

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Developed with the NHS, DadPad gives new dads and dads-to-be the knowledge and skills needed to gain confidence and give their baby the best start in life.

# data[].attributes.headline
Understanding your mental health and well-being

# data[].attributes.subject
Understanding your mental health and well-being