# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Feeding your baby :: NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Information from the Maternity service at Liverpool Women’s University Hospital on how to best feed your baby.

# data[].attributes.headline
Baby Cafe Worcester Breastfeeding Support

# data[].attributes.subject
Baby Cafe Worcester Breastfeeding Support

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
General 4 — Holistic Birth Worcestershire

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Our Weekly Feeding Support Group is run by two experienced breastfeeding counsellors from Holistic Birth Worcestershire.

# data[].attributes.body
Breastfeeding Support Cardiff

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Cardiff and Vale University Health Board

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Breastfeeding support in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
For information, support or help with breastfeeding, you are welcome to attend any of our breastfeeding support groups in Cardiff and Vale.

# data[].attributes.body
Breastfeeding check in the crucial first few days and support beyond then

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
North Cotswold Breastfeeding Support - Supporting your breastfeeding journey

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Wellness check, Offer A Complete Service To Meet Your Needs - North Cotswold Breastfeeding Support

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Nurturing Feeding FoundationsBreastfeeding Wellness CheckHome Visit Becoming a new parent, or even if already a parent and feeding a newborn again, can sometimes feel daunting and overwhelming. To help navigate those first few weeks feeding a newborn, we can visit you just after your baby is born to: Check on position and latch Check on

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
NCT Worcester & Droitwich, Worcester, Worcestershire. 2,065 likes · 9 talking about this · 3 were here. NCT is UK’s largest charity for parents - supporting you through the first 1,000 days.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Ludlow Breastfeeding Support & Social | Facebook

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
A group to meet other breastfeeding mums, ask questions related to breastfeeding and help to support each other. We meet on the last Friday of the month at Helena Lane Community Centre, 20 Hamlet...

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Breastfeeding Support in Cardiff & Vale

Are you looking for breastfeeding support or just want to chat to another mum about breastfeeding?

The Breastfeeding Network has trained peer support volunteers in your local area. All of our groups are completely free and open to breastfeeding mums and their support networks (and, of course, their little ones!).

Our breastfeeding drop in groups are run by fully trained volunteers and take place at locations across the Cardiff area:

Monday

Dinas Powys Community Library, Fairoaks, The Murch, CF64 4QU

10am - 12pm (excluding bank holidays)

St Marks Evangelical Church, North Road, Cardiff, CF14 3BL

10am - 12pm (excluding bank and school holidays)

Wednesday

Salvation Army (corner of Corporation Road/Avondale Road), Grangetown, CF11 7DS

1.30pm - 3.30pm

Penarth Baby Latte, The Crepe Escape Penarth, 15 Glebe St, Penarth, CF64 1ED

10am - 11am

Thursday

Busy Bees Stay and Play and Breastfeeding Peer Support Group, The Beacon Centre, St Mellons, Cf3 0PJ

9.30am - 11am (term time only)

For more information on BfN Cardiff & Vale, find us on Facebook here.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Cardiff & Vale - The Breastfeeding Network

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Breastfeeding Support in Cardiff & Vale Are you looking for breastfeeding support or just want to chat to another mum about breastfeeding? The Breastfeeding Network has trained peer support volunteers in your local area. All of our groups are completely free and open to breastfeeding mums and their support networks (and, of course, their little [...]

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Cardiff and Vale University Health Board

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
For information, support or help with breastfeeding, you are welcome to attend any of our breastfeeding support groups in Cardiff and Vale.

All groups are run by experienced health visitors or midwives, apart from the peer support groups which are run by mothers who have been trained to provide breastfeeding support.

You don't have to have a problem to attend - you might just like to come along for a cup of tea and to meet other breastfeeding mums!

Breastfeeding support groups in Cardiff and Vale

Dinas Powys Library Breastfeeding Group

Monday, 10am - 12pm (excluding bank holidays)

Dinas Powys Library, Fairoaks, Dinas Powys CF64 4QU

Cardiff North Breastfeeding Support Group

Monday, 10am - 12pm (term time only and excluding bank holidays)

St Mark's Church, North Road, Cardiff CF14 3BL

Cardiff Bay Breastfeeding Group

Wednesday, 1.30pm - 3.30pm

The Salvation Army, Corporation Road CF11 7AY

Barry & Vale Breastfeeding Support Group

Wednesday, 10am - 12pm

Flying Start Family Centre, Gladstone Road, Barry CF63 1NH

Further Breastfeeding Support

* Peer Support and Helplines
*National Breastfeeding Helpline - 0300 100 0212
Association of Breastfeeding Mothers
*La Leche League - 0345 120 2918
*Breastfeeding Support (Bengali/Sylhettui) - 03004562421
* Penarth Baby Latte Peer Support Group at the Crepe Escape Penarth (Wednesdays 10-11am). Please check the facebook page to ensure that there is a volunteer available https://www.facebook.com/PenarthBabyLatte
*Busy Bees Stay and Play Peer Support Group, Beacon Centre, Harrison Drive, St Mellons CF3 0PJ (Thursday 9.30am-11am Term time only)

We currently have two specialist breastfeeding clinics per week. The clinics should be attended by appointment only and your midwife, health visitor or Seren support worker can refer you.

Woodville Christian Centre, Crwys Rd CF24 4ND (Tuesday)

St David's Hospital (Children Centre), Cowbridge Road East, Cardiff, CF11 9XB (Friday afternoons)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Specialist breastfeeding support in Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan from the Seren Team

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
For information, support or help with breastfeeding, you are welcome to attend any of our breastfeeding support groups in Cardiff and Vale.

# data[].attributes.body
Support Groups

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Monmouth Breastfeeding Support Group has 215 members. We welcome everyone who has an interest in breastfeeding their babies. Our aim is to provide advice and support through your breastfeeding...

# data[].attributes.body
Appointments on a Friday

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
If you need urgent help please contact:

UHW Midwifery Led Unit : 029 2074 5030 or 029 2074 5196 (24 hours a day)

Vale Community Midwives : 029 2035 0622 (daytime only)

Please note: Specialist clinics during the COVID-19 restrictions are by appointment only. Appointments can be booked via their midwife or Health Visitor

Once the pandemic restrictions are over, then each mother will be given a list of support groups at discharge from hospital.

Breastfeeding clinics are run by qualified infant feeding advisors for mothers who are experiencing breast feeding problems.

Health visitor breastfeeding groups are run by experienced health visitors and can be used for problem solving or to meet other breastfeeding mums.

Peer support groups are run by mothers who have been trained by Lactation Consultants to provide breastfeeding support. The groups have speakers on a regular basis e.g. baby massage, baby yoga, dental hygienist, etc.

Community Maternity Care Assistants support the Community Midwifery Teams following a mother's discharge from hospital. They can supplement postnatal midwifery visits if a mum had breastfeeding problems up to 28 days after the birth.

Where to go for help

Breastfeeding and peer support groups are available. Find out where and when these take place on our bilingual Breastfeeding Support Poster.

Tongue Tie Division Service (Frenulotomy)

The Tongue Tie Division Service is for breastfeeding babies with breastfeeding challenges due to tongue tie. Each Friday morning appointments are available for this service on First Floor Maternity. Bookings can be made following assessment by a midwife, MCA, GP or health visitor.

Useful websites

Useful numbers

If you have any queries regarding this information, you can contact Breastfeeding Co-ordinator via the MLU on the numbers given above.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Breastfeeding support in the Cardiff and Vale

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
If you need urgent help please contact: UHW Midwifery Led Unit : 029 2074 5030 or 029 2074 5196 (24 hours a day) Vale Community Midwives : 029 2035 0622 (daytime only) Please note: Specialist clinics during the COVID-19 restrictions are by appointment only.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Skip to main content Skip to accessibility tools

Why breastfeed

Many women find it hard to imagine using their breasts to feed a baby and it can be even harder if your family and friends haven't breastfed. The best way to gain confidence and find out more about breastfeeding is to meet mums that are doing it and meet health professionals that can offer you help and advice.

Baby benefits
Breast milk protects your baby against many health conditions.
Chest infections

Babies have a limited immune system and they can't fight infections on their own so all of your infection-fighting antibodies are passed on through your breastmilk, helping to boost your baby's immune system.

Tummy upsets

Your breastmilk helps to coat the lining of your baby's gut and contains enzymes that can kill harmful bacteria.

Ear infections

While your baby is feeding they are building up the muscles that help drain the ears, reducing the risk of ear infections. These muscles are not developed as well when babies are bottle fed, as babies suck differently from a bottle.

Obesity

Unlike bottle feeding, breastfeeding allows your baby to satisfy their own appetite, an important skill that will last a lifetime! The very first milk you will feed your baby is called colostrum and is packed full of nutrients and antibodies, which unlike bottle feeding, doesn't stretch your baby's tummy more than it should. The fact that your breastmilk is constantly changing helps your baby recognise when to stop feeding and it helps them to learn to control their own appetite.

Benefits to mother

The benefits of breastfeeding for you are reduced risk of

As well as helping you to develop a strong bond with your baby, breastfeeding is great for your health and losing weight. Women who choose to breastfeed produce hormones that help the womb contract back to its original size more quickly, leaving them with a flatter tummy.

Breastfeeding mums also burn up to 500 extra calories a day, helping them to lose weight and feel great.

Breastfeeding support

Virtual Breastfeeding Support Groups

Midlands Partnership are offering weekly virtual breastfeeding groups, where we can share information, answer your questions and give you the chance to meet other new parents too.

Our virtual groups are open to pregnant and breastfeeding mums. To attend the virtual session you'll need to register first to receive a joining link. The groups are delivered over Microsoft Teams, but you won't need any special equipment or to download any apps, just a smartphone, tablet or laptop and a valid email address. To ensure your safety we'll need to check the NHS number of either you or your baby. It would be really helpful if you could have that to hand when you call or add it to your email.

Your Local Hub

Our Hub staff have all completed additional training to enable them to offer infant feeding support over the telephone. The hubs operate from 9am to 5pm each weekday (excluding bank holidays).

National Breastfeeding Helpline

The National Breastfeeding Helpline operates from 9:30am - 9:30pm each day and can be contacted by telephone on 0300 100 0212, with a webchat service also available - see the National Breastfeeding Helpline for further details.

Support from your midwifery team

Contact your local midwifery team for further information.

If you gave birth at the University Hospital of North Midlands

Breastfeeding support is provided by all staff. There is also an Infant feeding team who provide additional support within the maternity unit, via telephone and face to face following discharge home.

The Infant feeding team can be contacted by telephone on 01782 672212 or by bleep through main switchboard by telephoning 01782 715444, bleep number15811. Support is available during pregnancy and following the birth of your baby.

A 24 hrs helpline is available for all feeding issues at Royal Stoke Maternity Unit by telephoning 01782 672200.

Visit the Maternity pages at University Hospital of North Midlands for further information.

Breastfeeding Network Stoke

For Stoke-on-Trent parents only: Get support on your breastfeeding journey. Access support and meet other parents at our virtual 'drop-in' breastfeeding support groups. The Breastfeeding Network with Stoke-on-Trent City Council is happy to offer you virtual 'drop-in group' breastfeeding support. Group sessions take place Monday and Friday, 10am to 11am via Zoom.

Contact details:

Medication and breastmilk

You may be concerned if you need to take any medication whilst you are breastfeeding. The Breastfeeding Network has provided information on drugs in breastmilk to help you make informed decisions or you can take the information to your GP to discuss together.

Visit Breastfeeding Network - Drugs in Breastmilk: Is It Safe? for more information.

Medical information on breastfeeding

Breastfeeding should be pain-free and enjoyable! However, some women are affected by medical problems that can make breastfeeding difficult or painful. The majority of conditions can be quickly and effectively treated and very few conditions requires that the mother gives up breastfeeding.

If you have any of the symptoms below, or any other problems with breastfeeding, we would urge you to continue to feed your baby and contact your midwife, health visitor or GP immediately.

Mastitis

Symptoms

If you have the above symptoms please contact your own GP if you are concerned.

Treatment

For further advice on medication please contact your pharmacist or GP.

Ibuprofen (400 mg) will reduce the inflammation, relieve pain and reduce temperature. Take 400mg three times a day after food. ( If you are asthmatic please consult your G.P)

Paracetamol will relieve pain and reduce temperature but has no anti inflammatory action. Take two 500mg tablets four times a day.

Continue feeding even on the affected side, this will help your recovery.

Antibiotics may be needed, if no improvement in 24 hours please contact your G.P.

Do not stop breastfeeding during mastitis. This can make Mastitis much worse; continuing to breastfeed will help recovery and will not harm the baby.

Visit the Breastfeeding Network - Mastitis and breastfeeding (pdf) to find more information about mastitis

Thrush of the breast

Symptoms

Sudden start of breast and or nipple pain after some days or weeks of pain free breastfeeding

The nipple may be itchy or extra sensitive, pale or reddened

Shooting pains deep within the breast AFTER feeding. Pain can be SEVERE and can last up to an hour

Cracked nipples which don't heal

Permanent (not transient) loss of colour in the nipple or areola

Pain occurs in both breasts because baby transfers infection

History of recent antibiotic use

Baby with oral symptoms of thrush

Maternal symptoms of vaginal thrush at delivery

Nappy rash which does not clear with simple treatment

There may be no obvious signs of infection on the breast but this does not necessarily mean that you don't need to be treated

Treatment

The treatment of both mother and baby is essential even if only one shows symptoms of thrush as thrush can be passed between mum and baby.

Treatment of mother

For further advice on medication please contact your pharmacist or GP.

A smear of Miconazole 2% to the nipple and areola area after each feed. Any cream that can be seen should be gently wiped off before the next feed, but there is no need to wash the residue off

For inflamed/red nipples, a mild steroid cream can be used to help healing, such as Miconozole 2% plus Hydrocortisone 1%

The mother may need additional analgesia until symptoms improve to enable her to cope with the pain caused by thrush

If there is no improvement or deep breast pain develops, oral treatment of Fluconizole can be given alongside topical treatment of mother and baby which is on prescription from your G.P, please contact them

If pain/symptoms have been present for some time a longer course or higher dose of Fluconizole may be required

Treatment of baby

For babies over 4 months old

Oral Miconazole gel applied to baby's oral mucosa and tongue four times a day. The gel should be applied gently in small amounts with a clean finger until all mucosal surfaces have been coated

For babies under 4 months old

Nystatin oral suspension.

Please note that there are other causes of nipple pain, including:

Poor attachment

Eczema

Tongue Tie

Reynaud's Syndrome

White Spot

Bacterial Infection

If you have nipple pain and you are not sure what the cause might be, contact your midwife, health visitor or GP.

Visit the Breastfeeding Network - Thrush and Breastfeeding (pdf) for more information about breastfeeding and thrush.

Baby feeding correctly?

When you baby is well attached

Your baby's chin will be touching the breast

Your baby's mouth will be wide open

You might not be able to see the areola (the darker area around the nipple) at all, or there will be more showing above the baby's top lip

You might be able to see that the baby's lower lip is curled back, although if your baby's well positioned you might not be able to see

Your baby's cheeks will be round and full and shouldn't look sucked in or dimpled at all.

There won't be any smacking or slurping sounds

At first your baby's suck might be quite fast but they will become slower and longer as you feed.

You may feel quite a strong, drawing sensation, which might be a bit uncomfortable at first but it should be painless after a while.

When your baby's all full up, they should come off the breast feeling sleepy and satisfied.

Signs that your baby isn't well attached

Skin to skin contact

Having skin-on-skin contact as soon as possible after you've given birth is a really good idea.

Having this close contact as early as possible keeps your baby calm, regulates their breathing and heartbeat and makes the first time you breastfeed easier.

Is my baby getting enough milk?

The best way to tell if your baby is getting enough milk is to take a look at their nappy.

After the first few days your baby will be having around six wet nappies a day. Your baby's poo will change a lot during their first week, starting off black to dark brown and then turning to a runny, mustard coloured poo.

After the first couple of weeks the best way to tell if your baby is getting enough milk is by monitoring their weight gain.

Visit the UNICEF - Off to the best start (pdf) to download a copy of "Off to the Best Start"

If you do have any concerns please contact your Midwife or Health Visitor.

Storing and expressing breastmilk

Expressing milk means squeezing milk out of your breast so that you can store it and feed it to your baby at a later time.

You might want to express milk

if you have to be away from your baby. This could be because your baby is ill or premature, or because you're going back to work.

if your breasts feel uncomfortably full or if your baby isn't sucking well but you still want to give them breast milk.

to use with your baby's first solid foods.

How do I do it?

You can express milk by hand or with a breast pump. Different pumps suit different women, so ask for advice or see if you can try one before you buy it. Always make sure that the container or pump is clean and has been sterilised before you use it.

Expressing by hand

You may find it easier to express milk by hand than to use a pump, especially in the first few days. It also means you won't have to buy or borrow a pump.

The following suggestions may help

Before you start, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water, and gently massage your breast

Cup your breast just behind your areola (the darker part of your breast)

Squeeze gently, using your thumb and the rest of your fingers in a C shape (see image above). This shouldn't hurt (don't squeeze the nipple directly as you'll make it sore and unable to express). See how this is done in the video at the bottom of the page

Release the pressure then repeat, building up a rhythm. Try not to slide your fingers over the skin. At first, only drops will appear, but keep going as this will help to build up your milk supply. With practice and a little time, milk may flow freely

When no more drops come out, move your fingers round and try a different section of your breast, and repeat

When the flow slows down, swap to the other breast. Keep changing breasts until the milk drips very slowly or stops altogether

If the milk doesn't flow, try moving your fingers slightly towards the nipple or further away, or give the breast a gentle massage

Hold a sterilised feeding bottle or container below your breast to catch the milk as it flows

UNICEF - Hand Expression Video has a video on how to hand express and about the times when hand expression might be useful to you.

Cup feeding

Sometimes your baby may need extra milk or find it hard to feed from your breast. In this case, your midwife may suggest that you give your baby some expressed milk in a cup.

This should be done under the supervision of a midwife until you feel confident enough to avoid the risk of your baby choking.

Storing breast milk

You can store breast milk in a sterilised container:

In the fridge for up to five days at 4°C or lower

For two weeks in the ice compartment of a fridge

For up to six months in a freezer

Breast milk must always be stored in a sterilised container. If you use a pump, always sterilise it before and after use.

Defrosting frozen breast milk

If you have frozen your milk, defrost it in the fridge before giving it to your baby. Once it's defrosted, use it straight away. Milk that's been frozen is still good for your baby and better than formula milk. Don't re-freeze milk once it's thawed.

Warming breast milk

You can feed expressed milk straight from the fridge if your baby is happy to drink it cold. Or you can warm the milk to body temperature by placing the bottle in lukewarm water.

Don't use a microwave to heat up or defrost breast milk as it can cause hot spots, which can burn your baby's mouth:

If your baby is in hospital

If you're expressing milk because your baby is premature or ill, ask the hospital staff caring for your baby for information about storing it, as the hospital will have its own guidelines

Breastfeeding Network - Expressing and Storing Breastmilk
Expressing and Returning to Work

The first few days

In the first few days, you and your baby will be getting to know each other. It may take time for both of you to get the hang of breastfeeding.

Before the birth

It's good to find out as much as you can about breastfeeding before the birth. Knowing what to expect should help you feel as confident as possible when you've just given birth and want to breastfeed your baby.

Antenatal sessions should cover the most important aspects of breastfeeding, such as positioning and attachment, expressing, common questions and concerns, and how to overcome them. You can find out more from your Midwife.

Although the health benefits of breastfeeding are overwhelmingly clear, the reality is that many parents don't get the practical information and support they need to start breastfeeding or to continue as long as they wish. Nine out of ten women who have stopped breastfeeding before six months say they wished they could have carried on for longer, and many say they stopped because of a lack of information and support.

The series of online videos From Bump to Breastfeeding - best beginnings follow real mothers and their babies and shows new parents how to get started breastfeeding; provides practical answers to the common problems. This valuable resource, which is endorsed by five Royal Colleges, has been designed to motivate and enable the next generation of mothers to make a supported choice to breastfeed and can be viewed in seven languages including Urdu, Bengali and Somali.

Immediately after your baby is born

Having Skin to skin contact with your baby straight after the birth will help to keep your body warm, calm your baby, and help with the first breastfeed.

Every pregnant woman makes milk for her baby, which is ready and available at birth. This milk is called colostrum and is sometimes a yellow colour. It's very concentrated, so your baby will only need a small amount at each feed (approximately a teaspoonful). Your baby may want to feed quite frequently, perhaps every hour. But they will begin to have longer feeds more often when your milk comes in, in a few days. The more you breastfeed the more milk you'll produce. The time between feeds will vary, and you and your baby will settle into a pattern, which may change from time to time.

How often will my baby feed?

All babies are different, and it may depend on the type of birth you've had. Your baby should feed within the first hour after birth to get off to a good start. Babies then sometimes have a sleep and will start to give you signs that they're ready for the next feed. These signs include:

starting to move about as they wake up

moving their head around

finding something to suck, usually their fingers

Building up your milk supply

Around two to four days after birth you may notice that your breasts become fuller and warmer. This is often referred to as your milk 'coming in'. Your milk will vary according to your baby's needs. It will look thin compared with colostrum, but gets creamier as the feed goes on.

Each time your baby feeds, your body knows to make the next feed. Feed your baby as often as they want. This is called responsive feeding (it's also known as 'on-demand' or 'baby-led'). Let your baby decide when they've had enough. It's not necessary to time the feeds. In the beginning, it can seem that you're doing nothing but feeding, but gradually, you and your baby will get into a pattern of feeding, and the amount of milk you produce will settle.

It's important to breastfeed at night because this is when you produce more of the hormone prolactin, which helps build up your milk supply. At night, your baby will be safest sleeping in a cot in the same room as you.

Help and support

If you're very uncomfortable or sore, ask for help. Midwives, health visitors and trained volunteers can offer information and practical help with breastfeeding. Talk to your midwife or health visitor about the information and support available in your area.

The National Breastfeeding Helpline offers telephone support from 9.30am to 9.30pm every day of the year and can be contacted by telephoning 0300 100 0212

Helping your partner to breastfeed

Partners play an important role in supporting mothers who decide to breastfeed. Support and encouragement are a 'must' so that baby and mum can feel comfortable. Sometimes you may want to ask questions and don't always feel you can or don't wish to upset your partner if they have decided they are going to breastfeed and you're not sure about it.

What you can do to help

It's normal to feel like a bit of a spare part at first but there are plenty of ways to get involved and play your part:

Give compliments - this really is vital to keep your partner happy and positive. It is important you tell her how well she is doing and offer your support and love.

Encourage your partner to eat and drink regularly so she feels more able to cope

Listen and talk honestly about how you feel

Be involved with the baby in other ways so that the care is shared.

You can also help with housework and any other siblings

Do I really make a difference?

Partners play a big part in the mother's decision to breastfeed, so if you're positive then your partner should feel more comfortable and proud to breastfeed. A woman is more likely to choose to breastfeed if she is certain her partner is positive about it too.

I'm worried that I'll feel pushed out

It's normal to feel a bit left out when everything seems to be about the baby and your partner's doing all the feeding; this can take a little while to get used to. You may sometimes feel jealous or left out as mother and baby form a very close relationship. However, breastfeeding is only one way of caring for your baby.
You can still be involved by:

Playing

Soothing

Bathing

Changing nappies

Entertaining

Winding

Talking

Taking for walks

Lay baby on your chest, skin to skin

Once your partner is breastfeeding successfully then she might be able to express some milk so that you can feed your baby too. It's really important not to introduce formula to replace breastfeeding, as it will affect the amount of milk your partner produces and there might not be enough milk for your baby.

I feel uncomfortable about my partner breastfeeding in public

Many worry about this and by discussing this together you can agree how to handle it. Once baby is born and you are used to seeing breastfeeding it may not be an issue. There is usually little or no breast showing when baby is feeding. Visit the 'Breastfeeding Friendly Places' section for more information.

Will breastfeeding affect our sex life?

Tiredness may affect this more. There are a few things you need to know below but there is no reason why you can't still enjoy sex whilst breastfeeding is taking place:

Do I need to know much about breastfeeding?

You may find it helpful to know how breastfeeding works and what is normal behaviour for breastfed babies. Here are some useful facts:

Baby will be happier if he's fed as soon as he shows signs of being hungry

Breastfed babies usually feed frequently (at least 2 - 3 hourly) in the early weeks, especially during the evenings, but every baby is individual

Some babies are slow feeders at first, but they get quicker as they get older

The more the baby feeds, the more milk the mother makes

Babies are usually less windy, and put on weight better, if they finish feeding from the first breast before being offered the second

A mother will enjoy feeding more if she is comfortable and relaxed

The baby needs to open his mouth really wide, have the nipple in the back of his mouth and have his chin against his mother's breast to feed well, as he massages the milk out with his tongue

Nipple soreness or pain during feeding is generally a sign that baby is not getting a large enough mouthful of breast.

Resources

The NCT offer a range of articles and information around 'Life as a parent' .

Further information around breast and chestfeeding for transgender men and women, and non-binary and genderqueer individuals can be found by visiting the KellyMom website section: ​​​​ Transgender Parents Chest/Breastfeeding - kellymom

Breastfeeding premature babies

Giving birth to a preterm baby can be a frightening and traumatic time for parents. Fears about the wellbeing of your baby and the sense of emergency within the delivery room can result in you and your partner feeling excluded and powerless. Understandably, the health of your baby will take precedent at this time and the nurses and medical staff will be focusing on ensuring that your baby's condition is stabilised.

However even very preterm babies sometimes go through an initial period of stability and there may be an opportunity for you to hold him in skin-to-skin contact for a short period of time. This can help stabilise his breathing and heart rate and stimulates mothering hormones which will help you to produce breastmilk. If you are unable to have skin-to-skin contact at this time, you can look forward to when you and your baby are well enough to enjoy skin contact on the neonatal unit.

Breastfeeding is extra-important if your baby is born preterm or is ill

They can be vunerable to infections

They need the milk that is specifically designed for them

When babies are born early, often this can mean that the physical changes that happen in your breasts to enable you to breastfeed have not yet fully completed. Therefore in order to get a good milk supply started it is really important that you start to express your milk as soon as possible after the birth of your baby.

Even though you may be feeling exhausted, anxious and frightened if your baby was born prematurely, gently expressing milk by hand as soon as you are able (but preferably within the first couple of hours after birth) will help to switch on your milk supply. Ask a member of staff to show you how to hand express your milk. It is important to express your milk at least 8 times in 24 hours including once during the night to maximise the amount of milk you produce. If you have a large glass of water before you go to bed at night your bladder will be sure to wake you up and you can then fit in an expression.

You don't have to express to a strict routine, but if you think about how a baby would feed (two or three times close together followed by a longer gap) this flexibility can help you fit in the eight or more expressions needed for an effective milk supply. Having something to remind you of your baby (photos, sound recording, item of clothing that will have his smell) will help your milk to 'let down'. Practicing relaxation techniques and gentle breast massage will also help. Remember, providing your breastmilk for your baby is a valuable and unique contribution to helping him grow and develop during this crucial time.

Depending on how early your baby is born he may need to remain in the neonatal unit for a prolonged period of time. This can be a stressful and demanding time for you and your family. Frequent visits to the hospital and the ongoing regime of expressing and storing breastmilk can be very tiring and you may feel as if there is no time left for normal family life.

But remember that the breastmilk you're providing serves an invaluable function, providing your baby with both nutrition and protective factors which are essential for babies, particularly those exposed to hospital-acquired infections.

Preterm and very low birth weight babies are at increased risk of infection in the early days because their gut is underdeveloped. This allows pathogens and allergens to migrate into the baby's system. Breastmilk not only helps to seal the gut but also promotes gut growth and maturity. This is often referred to as 'priming' the gut. Anti-infective and anti-inflammatory factors in breastmilk also protect against infection and inflammatory-based diseases.

As your breastmilk production becomes more established, there is more flexibility to the expressing regime. Double pumping is not only effective at removing milk but will really help to reduce expressing time. Cluster expressing (expressing 2-3 times within a short timeframe to allow a longer gap later) can help you to manage your time better. Night time expressions are important but again you can be more flexible about these as your milk production becomes more established. Spending as much time as possible in skin contact with your baby will really help you maintain your milk production.

Storing milk

Remember to use a sterilised container to put the milk in. You can store milk in the fridge for up to five days at 4°C or lower (usually at the back). Breast milk can be stored for two weeks in the ice compartment of a fridge or for up to six months in a freezer. Defrost frozen breastmilk in the fridge and once thawed use it straight away.

For further information on feeding your premature baby visit NHS - Breastfeeding your premature baby.

Breastfeeding twins and more

Breastfeeding friendly places

During your baby's early days, you may prefer to breastfeed only where you feel most comfortable. But, as you get more used to doing it, you're likely to feel more confident about breastfeeding in front of other people when you're out and about.

Here are some ideas to help you get started.

Plan ahead

Before you go out, it can help to think about where you will feel comfortable breastfeeding when your baby gets hungry. Ask breastfeeding friends or your health visitor if they know of a spot, such as a cafe, that they've found to be breastfeeding-friendly.

Clothes and bra

What you wear when you're breastfeeding is a matter of personal taste and what you feel comfortable in. For example, some mums like to wear loose tops that can be lifted up. Others, who prefer to keep their tummy covered, wear two stretchy tops so that the top layer can be lifted up and the bottom layer can be pulled down. A soft non-underwired bra can be easily pulled up or down when you want to feed your baby.

Baby slings, scarves and cloths

Some baby slings are designed in such a way that you can breastfeed while your baby is still in the sling. Ask your health visitor for more information. Some mums feel more comfortable laying a scarf or muslin cloth over their chest while they're breastfeeding.

Take someone with you

Sometimes, it helps to go with a friend who has an older baby and can take you to places that she already knows would be comfortable for you to sit and feed. Or go with someone else, such as your mum, partner, sister or friend so that there's always someone to talk to.

Avoid the loos

Don't feel that you should sit in a public toilet to breastfeed. You wouldn't eat in there, so don't feel that your baby should.

Know your rights

You shouldn't ever be made to feel uncomfortable about breastfeeding in public. In fact, the Equality Act 2010 has made it illegal for anyone to ask a breastfeeding woman to leave a public place such as a cafe, shop or public transport

Out and about in Staffordshire and Stoke - where can I breastfeed?
Check the business is still trading before making a special journey:

Returning to work

The World Health Organisation recommends exclusive breastfeeding for around six months, and there are benefits to continuing breastfeeding for up to two years after this.

Every mum's circumstances are different and there are lots of ways you can incorporate breastfeeding into your working life, whether it's using nearby childcare, expressing milk or working flexible hours, there's a solution to suit each mum.

It's a good idea to let your employer know as early as possible that you intend to breastfeed so you both of you have time to prepare. Before you go back to work, write to your employer/tutor to let them know. You may have an HR department that can help. It can make preparations, such as finding you a private room where you can breastfeed or express your milk.

Information for employers

Employers have certain legal obligations to breastfeeding mothers. Supporting breastfeeding has business benefits too.

These include:

How can employers help?

Employers can have a policy to support breastfeeding.

This includes:

Let your employees know about your policy before they start their maternity leave.

Working flexible hours

You could talk to your employer about the option of working flexible hours, allowing you to work around your breastfeeding times. Or, you could negotiate shorter working hours in the short term until your baby needs fewer feeds during the day.

Expressing milk for your baby to be given by a carer when you're at work

With a little forward planning it is perfectly possible to continue to combine breastfeeding and working. If a mother intends to return to work very soon after the baby is born (for example if they are self-employed) then it is essential the she ensures that breastfeeding is well established and she feels confident with feeding before she starts back at work.

Depending on the times you're at work, you might need to express your milk at work so that your baby has enough milk for the following day. Expressing can also be important to stop your breasts getting too full and to keep up your milk supply.

You can express by hand or use a pump to express milk. How often you need to express will depend on how much milk your baby needs and how often they feed. Expressing milk can take between 10 and 40 minutes: every mum is unique.

You should discuss with your employer how you are going to manage expressing at work. There are health and safety guidelines protecting breastfeeding mums at work and employers have a duty to ensure they comply.

Combining breastfeeding and formula feeding

You can breastfeed your baby when you are together, and leave formula milk for them while you're at work. Most mothers who decide on this option find that once breastfeeding is well established their breasts quickly adapt, and that they have plenty of milk to feed their baby at evenings and weekends.

What does the law say?

It is for the mother to decide how long she wishes to breastfeed. Returning to work doesn't mean that she has to stop. On returning to work, she should give her employer written notification that she's breastfeeding. Her employer must then conduct a specific risk assessment.

The Workplace Regulations and Approved Code of Practice require employers to provide suitable facilities where pregnant and breastfeeding mothers can rest.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recommends that it's good practice for employers to provide a private, healthy and safe environment for breastfeeding mothers to express and store milk. It is not suitable to use toilets for this purpose.

Useful links

Caring for your baby at night

The safest place for your baby to sleep is in a cot by the side of your bed. This means you can hear your baby and respond to her needs before she starts crying or becoming distressed, you can reach your baby easily.

It is normal for babies and young children to wake in the night, take a look at the short video below which demonstrates the results of research from Swansea University.

Listen for the early feeding cues:

Sucking fingers

Restlessness

Murmuring sounds

There may be times when your baby remains unsettled after feeds, placing your baby in skin to skin contact with you and gently rocking can provide comfort. Your partner can help with this too.

If you are breastfeeding you can offer your breast again even if your baby has just fed. Babies find suckling comforting and there is no risk of overfeeding a breastfed baby. If you have had a particularly disturbed night, try to take time out to rest during the daytime. Visitors can wait - or help by taking over chores or looking after other children while you and your baby catch up on sleep.
To keep your baby safe and to reduce the risk of sudden infant death, (some times called cot death) always make sure:

You put baby down on their back to sleep, never on the front or side

The cot is beside the parent's bed for at least the first six months

The mattress is firm and flat

Your baby is not overdressed or covered with too much bedding (no more than you would yourself)

The bedding must not be able to cover the baby's head

The room is not too hot (16- 20 degree C is ideal)

The room on which the baby sleeps is a smoke free zone

Useful links

Tongue tie

Normally, the tongue is loosely attached to the base of the mouth with a piece of skin called the frenulum. In babies with tongue-tie, this piece of skin is unusually short, holding the tongue down and restricting its movement.

Tongue-tie affects 3-10% of newborn babies.

Tongue-tie doesn't always cause problems. Sometimes, the skin anchoring the tongue may be so thin that it soon breaks on its own.

However, in some cases tongue-tie is severe and the tongue is almost fused to the base of the mouth. This can prevent babies from effectively feeding properly whether it is breast or bottle fed which then can go on to cause problems for the mother.

Problems tongue-tie can cause

Breastfeeding

Babies with severe tongue-tie will not be able to open their mouth wide enough to latch onto their mother's breast.

They cannot get any milk, so they end up sliding off the breast and chomping on the nipple with their gums. The mother's nipples soon become sore and the baby fails to gain much weight.

To breastfeed successfully, the baby needs to latch onto the breast tissue and nipple needs to sit at the back of the babies throat in the soft palate area, and the baby's tongue covers the lower gum so the nipple is protected from damage.

Bottle feeding

A tongue-tied baby may also find bottle feeding hard. They cannot form a seal around the teat of the bottle, so milk leaks out as they suck. Air can sometimes get in and is swallowed, causing the baby to become windy and irritable.

Tongue-tie division

Snipping the skin to free up the tongue is known as tongue-tie division or frenuloplasty. It is a simple and painless procedure that usually resolves the problems mentioned above straight away.

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) supports the use of tongue-tie division as it is safe and there is some evidence that it can improve breastfeeding. The Baby Friendly Initiative provides a list of hospitals where tongue-tie can be divided.

How tongue-tie division is carried out

Please contact your Midwife or Health Visitor if you have any concerns regarding your baby's feeding. Your baby may need referring.

The baby's head is held securely and sharp scissors are used to snip the piece of skin. This only takes a few seconds and the baby won't feel much pain. Some babies sleep through it, while others just cry for a few seconds.

There should be little or no blood loss, and you can start feeding your baby immediately.

A white patch may form under the tongue, which takes 24-48 hours to heal but does not bother the baby.

Useful links

Return to header

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Skip to main content Skip to accessibility tools Many women find it hard to imagine using their breasts to feed a baby and it can be even harder if your family and friends haven't breastfed.

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
Tongue Tie Assessment Clinic recommences following pause due to COVID-19 pandemic

# data[].attributes.headline
Tongue Tie Clinic Shrewsbury and Telford

# data[].attributes.subject
Tongue Tie Clinic Shrewsbury and Telford

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
We are pleased to announce that our Tongue Tie Assessment Clinic is running again following the service being suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The specialist clinic takes place weekly at the Children's Outpatient Department at the Princess Royal Hospital in Telford. Previously, the service supported babies up to 28 days old but we are pleased to now be able to offer and support babies up to 42 days old who have a suspected tongue tie.

Tongue tie (ankyloglossia) is diagnosed when babies have an unusually short or tight frenulum (fold of tissue) under the tongue. When a baby has a tongue tie mothers may have difficulties with pain, nipple damage, mastitis and other breastfeeding related issues. Babies may have difficulty staying attached to the breast, may lose weight or may be very unsettled when trying to feed.

If a mother is having any of the above difficulties a full assessment will be undertaken by one of our trained feeding team where the appearance and function of the tongue is evaluated. Observing how the baby feeds, ensuring the baby is positioned and attached well to the breast, will also be done, offering mum support and reassurance. If a tongue tie is diagnosed not all babies will need treatment to divide the frenulum, advice and support will be offered to support the baby to feed effectively.

The specialist clinic is run by Emma Morris and Debbie Sharpe who are midwives with a wealth of experience, they are also lactation consultants and frenulotomy practitioners. The team accepts referrals from health professionals only and aim to see babies within seven days of referral, but this is often dependent on demand. All babies will be triaged and seen as soon as possible. During this time, families can access ongoing support from their community midwife, health visitor or breastfeeding support group.

For anyone who is having difficulties with breastfeeding can access specialist support that is offered by Emma, Debbie or Sandra, lactation consultants within SaTH. Their contact details can be found on the reverse of the SaTH postnatal booklet given out at discharge from hospital or after you have delivered your baby at home.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Tongue Tie Assessment Clinic recommences following pause due to COVID-19 pandemic

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We are pleased to announce that our Tongue Tie Assessment Clinic is running again following the service being suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The specialist clinic takes place weekly at the Children's Outpatient Department at the Princess Royal Hospital in Telford.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
We are commissioned by Ann Tayler and Daubeney Childrens Centres to deliver a weekly drop-in group which are currently running once a week at each centre led by a skilled breastfeeding supporter. You can also find us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/BfNHackney
Updated on 30/09/2021

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We are commissioned by Ann Tayler and Daubeney Childrens Centres to deliver a weekly drop-in group which are currently running once a week at each centre led by a skilled breastfeeding supporter. You can also find us on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/BfNHackney Updated on 30/09/2021

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
The World Health Organisation recommended that babies are breastfed exclusively for the first six months of their life; then alongside solid food for two years and beyond. This provides your baby with all the nutrition and immunity they need and helps you develop a positive, loving foundation.

Breastfeeding helps protect mother and baby

Breastfeeding helps protect your baby against:

Sudden infant death syndrome (cot death)

Childhood cancers

Allergies

Cardiovascular disease

Diabetes

Obesity

Respiratory diseases

Asthma

Ear infections

Gastro-intestinal infections/ disorders

Breastfeeding also helps protect women against:

Breast Cancer

Ovarian cancer

Endometrial cancer

Osteoporosis

Diabetes

Cardiovascular disease

Obesity

Rheumatoid arthritis

Get breastfeeding off to a good start

"What does the baby most need at the moment of birth? Only mother." (Bergman and Bergman 2012)

Here are some tips to get breastfeeding off to a good start:

Feeding your baby within the first hour of life

Immediate skin to skin contact stimulates the release of love hormones, encouraging successful breast-feeding and strengthening the mother-infant bond. Colostrum is your baby's first immunisation, rich in immunity. Breastfed babies have a strong immune system and high cognitive development. The longer the time spent in skin to skin contact after delivery greatly improves breastfeeding outcomes.

Skin-to-skin contact

Placing your newborn skin to skin in an upright position between your breasts has been shown to stimulate lactation. In this position you will raise or lower your temperature in response to your baby's body temperature. You can provide the perfect environment for your baby who can often struggle to maintain their own body temperature in the first few days of life. Immediate skin to skin leads to higher love hormone levels and milk making hormones. If your baby is placed straight onto your chest they will be given the opportunity to find the breast and initiate suckling within the first hour of life. Skin to skin is extremely useful following the delivery also. Strip your baby down to their nappy and place them on your bare chest, covering you both with a blanket. This can help calm your baby, regulate their temperate, help them obtain lots of healthy bacteria from your skin and promote breast-seeking behaviour.

Responsive feeding

Responsive feeding means offering the breast when your baby shows feeding cues rather than feeding at certain times throughout the day, as well as your own desire to feed your baby. You may wish to feed your baby because is strengthens the mother-baby bond. You can feed your baby to feel close and connected, as feeding can feel very enjoyable in response to rising love hormones. Alternatively you can choose to feed your baby if your breasts are beginning to fill and feel uncomfortable, or for convenience at a time that suits you, e.g. you feel baby will need fed within the hour but you also have to go and collect older children from school. We offer the breast to the baby if they are showing hunger cues, if they are upset or distressed, your breasts are full or because you would like a cuddle. You cannot overfeed a breastfed baby nor is there any such thing of spoiling your baby.

Bottles, dummies, nipple shields

Try and avoid using bottles, teats, dummies and nipple shields for at least the first month while breastfeeding is being established. Using dummies can result in babies being less likely to feed when they need to and taking in less milk.

Positioning

Establishing good positioning and attachment at the breast is important to ensure your baby transfers milk effectively and also avoid nipple pain and complications. For information on good positioning and attachment please see the Off to the best start leaflet

Expressing milk
Antenatal Colostrum Harvesting
It can be useful to learn how to express your milk by hand. It helps you target blocked ducts, relieve fullness; and it means your partner can feed your baby using a bottle while your baby still gets lots of benefits from your milk.

Breastfeeding support and advice

The Infant Feeding Team is on hand to offer help and support to all mothers and their babies. The Homerton Health Visiting Service is now offering face to face support to our families in City & Hackney as outlined below. This provides the opportunity for parents with babies to receive support with breastfeeding, formula feeding or a mixture of both. There will be an Infant Feeding Specialist at each session offering tailored help and support. You may wish to attend for reassurance regarding positioning and attachment or responsive bottle feeding. We are also able to support with more complex feeding needs.

Your safety is our priority. Therefore, to ensure your safety some sessions are by appointment only and others will remain as a drop-in clinic in compliance with COVID regulations. Please ensure you wear a face covering to the groups and bring along your baby's red book.

In addition to the face to face support, we can also offer telephone and video call support via our Infant Feeding inbox:
huh-tr.homertoninfantfeeding@nhs.net
Infant Feeding Support clinics:

City Child & Family Centre @ The Aldgate School (EC3A 5DE)
First Wednesday of every month

11:30am-1:30pm Drop in

How we helped

Fantastic support resource - very grateful for the expertise of this team! They enabled me to breastfeed my baby.

Excellent service. Whole team has great knowledge and practical skills on topic. Very agile and responsive team. I received very good support. Lifeline to families having difficulty with infant breastfeeding.

I have been really impressed by the support I've received. The team were very responsive to both a self-referral and a referral made by the midwife. Firstly a home visit at 7d followed by telephone/video when still having difficulty and signposting to drop ins. Really amazing to be given such a lot of 1 to 1 time to help with positioning and quick referrals sent. All the members of the team I have met are kind and supportive, giving me confidence and what seems to be pragmatic and personalised advice which was a relief, prior to the team input all the advice was generic and not really specific to the problems I was having.

You can also access telephone support from various services:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The World Health Organisation recommended that babies are breastfed exclusively for the first six months of their life; then alongside solid food for two years and beyond. This provides your baby with all the nutrition and immunity they need and helps you develop a positive, loving foundation.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Breastfeeding in the Lothians(breastfeedinginthelothians) - Official - Linktree

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
FREE groups run by trained peer supporters & additional breastfeeding resources

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
Breastfeeding in Wolverhampton area | Wolverhampton

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Our free NCT breastfeeding group runs every Thursday 10:30-12:30pm at: Action 4 Independence, Albert road, Wolverhampton WV6 0AF.
These drop-in sessions are run by an NCT Breastfeeding counsellor and our team of NCT trained peer supporters, who will be on hand to offer friendly support and information regarding breastfeeding - from pregnancy to infancy and beyond!

It is also a great place to come and meet other parents and support each other. Free to attend, free refreshments and there are toys and activities for babies and children of all ages. Partners, siblings and family members welcome, you do not need to be an NCT member to attend the group.

Other local Breastfeeding Support Groups

Bingley Breastfeeding Support Group When: Monday 1.15 - 2.45pm (term time only) Where: Bingley Strengthening Families Hub, Norfolk Road, Pennfields, Wolverhampton, WV3 0JE Contact: 01902 551979

Bump to Boob Support Group When: Tuesday 10 - 12noon (term time only) Where: Gatis Community Space, Gatis Street, Whitmore Reans, Wolverhampton WV6 0ES Contact: 01902 651155

The Childrens Village Breastfeeding Support Group When: Wednesday 10.30 - 12.30pm Where: The Children's Village, Graiseley Lane, Wolverhampton, WV11 1PE Contact: 01902 553945

Low Hill Breastfeeding Support Group When: Friday 9.30-11am (term time only) Where: Low Hill Strengthening Families Hub , 26-28 Fourth Ave, Low Hill, WV10 9LZ Contact: 01902 553285

NCT Infant Feeding Line: We get lots of calls to our feeding line about breastfeeding and bottle feeding. Whether you need information or reassurance, give us a call on 0300 330 0700 (choose option 1). The line is open everyday from 8am to midnight, including bank holidays. A call to an 0300 number costs the same as a call to a normal home or business landline. If your phone includes free calls to landlines, calls to 0300 numbers will be part of this. You'll speak to one of our friendly breastfeeding counsellors. They've had extensive training, will listen without judging or criticising and offer relevant information and suggestions - whether you're breastfeeding, formula feeding or a bit of both.
You can also ring your Midwife, Health Visitor or Children's Centre for advice during office hours and a midwife is available on the postnatal ward 24 hours a day. Other reputable websites and sources of support: https://www.royalwolverhampton.nhs.uk/services/service-directory-a-z/in... NHS National Breastfeeding Helpline- 0300 100 0212 http://www.breastfeeding.nhs.uk/ The Breastfeeding Network Supporterline - 0300 100 0210 Supporterline in Bengali / Sylheti - 0300 456 2421 Drugs in Breastmilk Helpline - emaildruginformation@breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk http://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/ The Association of Breastfeeding Mothers Breastfeeding Helpline - 0300 330 5453 http://www.abm.me.uk/ La Leche League Breastfeeding Helpline - 0845 120 2918 http://www.laleche.org.uk On-line Support For video clips of mothers talking about their experiences of breastfeeding and how to position and latch your baby: www.bestbeginnings.org.uk/ www.unicef.org.uk/babyfriendly

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Breastfeeding in Wolverhampton area | Wolverhampton

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Our free NCT breastfeeding group runs every Thursday 10:30-12:30pm at: Action 4 Independence, Albert road, Wolverhampton WV6 0AF. These drop-in sessions are run by an NCT Breastfeeding counsellor and our team of NCT trained peer supporters, who will be on hand to offer friendly support and information regarding breastfeeding - from pregnancy to infancy and beyond!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Attending a breastfeeding support and social group is a great way to meet other breastfeeding women, socialise, make friends and receive breastfeeding information and support.

Whether you have a breastfeeding query or would just like to meet other mothers to share experiences, the groups listed below are relaxed and informal and are open to any pregnant or breastfeeding women. Always a friendly welcome and sometimes a drink on offer too!

You might be able to take along older children also - call in advance for details.
Details of your local breastfeeding support and social groups are below, but you can also download a copy of our "Breastfeeding support and social groups in Wolverhampton" leaflet (PDF, 86Kb) leaflet.

Bingley Breastfeeding Support Group

When: Monday 1.15 - 2.45pm (term time only)

Where: Bingley Strengthening Families Hub, Norfolk Road, Pennfields, Wolverhampton, WV3 0JE

Contact: 01902 551979

Bump to Boob Support Group

When: Tuesday 10 - 12noon (term time only)

Where: Gatis Community Space, Gatis Street, Whitmore Reans, Wolverhampton WV6 0ES

Contact: 01902 651155

The Children's Village Breastfeeding Support Group

When: Wednesday 10.30 - 12.30pm

Where: The Children's Village, Graiseley Lane, Wolverhampton, WV11 1PE

Contact: 01902 553945

The NCT Breastfeeding Support Group

When: Thursday 10.30 - 12.30pm

Where: Action for Independence, Albert Road, Wolverhampton, WV6 0AF

Low Hill Breastfeeding Support Group

When: Friday 9.30-11am (term time only)

Where: Low Hill Strengthening Families Hub , 26-28 Fourth Ave, Low Hill, WV10 9LZ

You can also ring your Midwife, Health Visitor or Children's Centre for advice during office hours and a midwife is available on the postnatal ward 24 hours a day.

National sources of breastfeeding support

National Breastfeeding Helpline - 0300 100 0212
http://www.breastfeeding.nhs.uk/

The Breastfeeding Network
Supporterline - 0300 100 0210
Supporterline in Bengali / Sylheti - 0300 456 2421
Drugs in Breastmilk Helpline - email druginformation@breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk
http://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/

The Association of Breastfeeding Mothers
Breastfeeding Helpline - 0300 330 5453
http://www.abm.me.uk/

La Leche League
Breastfeeding Helpline - 0845 120 2918
http://www.laleche.org.uk/

The National Childbirth Trust
Breastfeeding Helpline - 0300 330 0771
http://www.nct.org.uk/

On-line Support
For video clips of mothers talking about their experiences of breastfeeding and how to position and latch your baby:

Breastfeeding support out of the area

Do you live outside Wolverhampton? Please use the following links to find breastfeeding support in your area:

Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent

Walsall

Sandwell

Birmingham

Dudley

Telford & Wrekin

Lactation Consultants

Work on a fee basis, in private practice, providing additional support to women in their own homes. For more information visit the Lactation Consultants of Great Britain website.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Resources provided to support breastfeeding.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Attending a breastfeeding support and social group is a great way to meet other breastfeeding women, socialise, make friends and receive breastfeeding information and support. Whether you have a breastfeeding query or would just like to meet other mothers to share experiences, the groups listed below are relaxed and informal and are open to any pregnant or breastfeeding women.

# data[].attributes.body
Stratford/Alcester Breastfeeding Counsellor Contact

# data[].attributes.body
Breastfeeding Support Line

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
Homerton Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Homerton Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Information and resources to support you with infant feeding

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
North Cotswold Breastfeeding Support - Supporting your breastfeeding journey

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Experienced support, helping you complete your journey through parenthood - North Cotswold Breastfeeding Support

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
NORTH COTSWOLD BREASTFEEDING SUPPORT As experienced Breastfeeding Counsellors we can walk alongside your family to help you reach your feeding goals, and protect your breastfeeding journey Offering you experienced Breastfeeding Support in North Cotswold North Cotswold Breastfeeding is committed to providing quality breastfeeding and infant feeding support. We are NCT trained Breastfeeding Counsellors and can

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Thank you for using our listing page to find a tongue tie practitioner NHS or private.
During this unprecedented pandemic of Covid 19, it should be noted that many services and practitioners are not operating as they usually do. Therefore Individual contact will need to be sought for each practitioner or service for up to date information. ATP is not responsible for each individual practitioner's decision to continue to provide a tongue-tie division service at this difficult time. It will be up to each practitioner to make a decision based on their own professional interpretation of government guidance and to carry out a risk assessment on an individual basis.
PLEASE NOTE:
All private practitioners are individually regulated by their professional regulatory body. The Association of Tongue-Tie Practitioners (ATP) does not investigate complaints against practitioners and does not make judgements about individual practitioners. By providing map listings and contact details for its members, ATP does not endorse any individual service. Complaints about your practitioner should be addressed, in the first instance to the practitioner, in order to seek early resolution. Serious concerns may be directed to to their regulatory body.

To find an practitioner by name please use the first search box below the map. To find your nearest service please enter your FULL post code in the second search box below the map, you can search by distance and refine by category - Private clinics, Private Practitioners for home visits or NHS by the drop down menu in the bottom right corner. NEW! Find a practitioner for a virtual consultation.
If your search returns no information, do consider making the search area larger using the drop-down box: it is automatically set to 25 miles but can go up to 100 miles. Some Practitioners are prepared to travel, and some may also work remotely.

PLEASE INSERT YOUR FULL POSTCODE IN THE LOCATION TAB. USING A TOWN OR AREA WILL NOT PRODUCE RESULTS

Private Practitioners are listed with markers: Purple markers denote private practitioners' clinics. Pink markers reflect private practitioners base for home visits. Green markers denotes NHS services. Red markers reflect practitioners for virtual consultations. The Association of Tongue-Tie Practitioners is not responsible for the content of external links and websites.
Guide to who's who in Breast feeding support and lactation here Guide to qualifications:
RM Registered Midwife

RGN Registered General Nurse

RN Registered Nurse

RHV Registered Health Visitor

ANNP Advanced Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

MD Doctor of Medicine

BDS Dental Surgery

DO Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine

IBCLC International Board Certified Lactation Consultant

ABM BFC Association of Breast Feeding Mothers Breastfeeding Counsellor

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Find a Practitioner - Association of Tongue-tie Practitioners

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Thank you for using our listing page to find a tongue tie practitioner NHS or private. During this unprecedented pandemic of Covid 19, it should be noted that many services and practitioners are not operating as they usually do. Therefore Individual contact will need to be sought for each practitioner or service for up to date information.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
As many of the larger organisations are disappearing, I felt a local group for the lovely breast feeding/combi feeding mums of Shrewsbury would be of benefit to both those starting out and with...

# data[].attributes.body
Louise Minihan-Lees 07875 607661

# data[].attributes.body
Tongue Tie Support

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Private practice for tongue tie division and infant feeding advice

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
La Leche League (LLL) Great Britain is an organisation of mothers who have and wish to pass on help, support, and information to others wishing to breastfeed. All women interested in breastfeeding, pregnant women, breastfeeding mums and their children are welcome.

LLL Shropshire is a group run by local LLL Leaders who have trained and are accredited by La Leche League International. We provide help, support, and information by post, , e-mail, on-line and through discussion for mothers. We are unpaid volunteers in our own homes.

If you are:
...then LLL is for you!

Already breastfeeding and want help with particular challenges

Expecting a baby and want to know more about breastfeeding

Hoping to meet other breastfeeding mums

Breastfeeding a toddler and feeling isolated

Interested in reading more about breastfeeding, birth and parenting

A mum with breastfeeding experience which you're happy to share

Looking for accurate information on starting solids or weaning

Interested in helping mums breastfeed/becoming a La Leche League Leader

LLLGB is a registered charity affiliated to La Leche League International - a nonprofit, nonsectarian organisation dedicated to providing support, encouragement, information, and education to women who want to breastfeed.
La Leche League Great Britain (an affiliate of LLLI) is a company limited by guarantee, Registered in England.
Company Number 01566925, Registered Charity Number 283771.
Registered office: 129a Middleton Boulevard, Wollaton Park, Nottingham NG8 1FW.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
La Leche League (LLL) Great Britain is an organisation of mothers who have and wish to pass on help, support, and information to others wishing to breastfeed. All women interested in breastfeeding, pregnant women, breastfeeding mums and their children are welcome.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
We are in the process of training 12 Breastfeeding Network volunteer Peer Supporters to provide infant feeding support to families across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin.

We aim to have face to face support groups in Telford (Sutton Hill), North Shrewsbury and Oswestry from Summer 2022.

Facebook page: keep up to date with our activity, including opportunities to train as a volunteer or join in activities as a family www.facebook.com/BreastfeedingNetworkShropshire

Email shropshire@breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk for further information.
Updated 14/01/2022

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Shropshire and Telford & Wrekin - The Breastfeeding Network

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We are in the process of training 12 Breastfeeding Network volunteer Peer Supporters to provide infant feeding support to families across Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin. We aim to have face to face support groups in Telford (Sutton Hill), North Shrewsbury and Oswestry from Summer 2022.

# data[].attributes.body
A closed Facebook group where you can meet other breastfeeding mothers, talk to a BFC and find out about their groups

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Log into Facebook to start sharing and connecting with your friends, family, and people you know.

# data[].attributes.body
Evesham Breastfeeding Mothers Support Group
Meets Friday at 12:30pm

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Evesham Breastfeeding Mothers Group has 253 members. EBM is a drop in group that runs every Friday lunch time from 12pm until 2pm. It was previously hosted at the Baptist Church on Cowl Street,...

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Worcestershire Breastfeeding Support | Worcester

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Worcestershire Breastfeeding Support, Worcester, Worcestershire. 492 likes · 3 talking about this. Worcestershire Starting Well Partnership Breastfeeding Support Workers

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Breastfeeding Network Drop-In (Oswestry Library) - Shropshire Community Directory - Shropshire Council

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Shropshire community groups, clubs, societies and organisations

# data[].attributes.body
Tongue Tie Information - Worcestershire (Tel numbers at end of document)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Tongue Tie Assessment Clinic - Parent information guide Worcester

# data[].attributes.body
Perinatal Support in Herefordshire and Worcestershire

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Are You Ready - Take a quick quiz to find out whether you're ready for pregnancy, and receive tailored advice on what you can do pre-pregnancy to have a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire - Aiming to inspire women and girls across the two counties to get active in a way that suits them. i

Start4life - Trusted NHS help and advice during pregnancy, birth and parenthood

Healthy Start - Pregnant or children under 4? You could be entitled to free vouchers every week to spend on milk, plain fresh and frozen fruit and vegetables, and infant formula milk.

Starting Well in Worcestershire - help and support to children, young people and families in Worcestershire.

Becoming Families - a range of educational and support services from pregnancy to 2 years, to help Worcestershire families have the best possible start.

Family Information Directory Herefordshire - information for parents on childcare and family support.

NHS Pregnancy and Baby guide - Whatever you want to know about getting pregnant, being pregnant or caring for your new baby, you should find it here

LabourPains.com - information from doctors, midwives and mothers on pain relief and anaesthesia choices for your baby's birth.

Lullaby Trust - expert advice on safer sleep for babies and emotional support for bereaved families.

Basis - information about safer infant sleep and night-time care.

First Steps Nutrition - information and resources to support eating well from pre-conception to five years.

Maternity and paternity benefits and leave - an NHS site which lists the benefits you're entitled to when you're pregnant, and has information on maternity, paternity and shared parental leave.

Best Beginnings - practical, simple, educational and interactive tools to support parents-to-be and new parents. Including the award-winning Baby Buddy app.

National Domestic Abuse Helpline - Freephone 0808 2000 247

Tommy's - support for parents and families who lose a baby, experience premature birth and to help everyone have a safe and healthy pregnancy.

South West Midlands Neonatal Operational Delivery Network - information if you are having a high risk pregnancy and your baby is expected to need extra care after birth, or your baby may already be born and is being cared for on a Neonatal Unit.

Kicks Count - raising awareness of the importance of monitoring baby's movements.

Bliss - help and support for parents of babies born sick or premature.

Sands - free support to anyone affected by the death of a baby.

National Childbirth Trust - information and support in pregnancy, birth and early parenthood.

Down's Syndrome Association - information and advice about Down's Syndrome.

Twins and Multiple Births Association (TAMBA) - advice and information if you are expecting twins, triplets or more.

Miscarriage Association - advice for those affected by miscarriage, molar pregnancy or ectopic pregnancy.

Mind - support for mental health problems.

PANDAS Foundation UK - pre and post natal depression advice and support

Unicef - information on baby-friendly care and overcoming breastfeeding challenges

The Breastfeeding Network - independent support and information for breastfeeding women and others.

Worcestershire Healthy Minds - support for over 16s who are experiencing problems such as stress, anxiety, low mood and depression.

Let's Talk - mental health support for the residents of Herefordshire and Gloucestershire
Perinatal mental health service Worcestershire Perinatal mental health services Herefordshire
Samaritans - Support 24/7 365 days a year, whatever you're going through. Freephone 116 123.

Healthwatch Worcestershire - giving the public, patients and users of health and social care services in Worcestershire a voice

Healthwatch Herefordshire - giving the public, patients and users of health and social care services in Herefordshire a voice

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Are You Ready - Take a quick quiz to find out whether you're ready for pregnancy, and receive tailored advice on what you can do pre-pregnancy to have a healthy pregnancy and baby. Active Herefordshire and Worcestershire - Aiming to inspire women and girls across the two counties to get active in a way that suits them.

# data[].attributes.body
Worcestershire have re-started their tongue-tie release  service. Speak to your midwife or health visitor to make a referal

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Thank you for using our listing page to find a tongue tie practitioner NHS or private.
During this unprecedented pandemic of Covid 19, it should be noted that many services and practitioners are not operating as they usually do. Therefore Individual contact will need to be sought for each practitioner or service for up to date information. ATP is not responsible for each individual practitioner's decision to continue to provide a tongue-tie division service at this difficult time. It will be up to each practitioner to make a decision based on their own professional interpretation of government guidance and to carry out a risk assessment on an individual basis.
PLEASE NOTE:
All private practitioners are individually regulated by their professional regulatory body. The Association of Tongue-Tie Practitioners (ATP) does not investigate complaints against practitioners and does not make judgements about individual practitioners. By providing map listings and contact details for its members, ATP does not endorse any individual service. Complaints about your practitioner should be addressed, in the first instance to the practitioner, in order to seek early resolution. Serious concerns may be directed to to their regulatory body.

To find an practitioner by name please use the first search box below the map. To find your nearest service please enter your FULL post code in the second search box below the map, you can search by distance and refine by category - Private clinics, Private Practitioners for home visits or NHS by the drop down menu in the bottom right corner. NEW! Find a practitioner for a virtual consultation.
If your search returns no information, do consider making the search area larger using the drop-down box: it is automatically set to 25 miles but can go up to 100 miles. Some Practitioners are prepared to travel, and some may also work remotely.

PLEASE INSERT YOUR FULL POSTCODE IN THE LOCATION TAB. USING A TOWN OR AREA WILL NOT PRODUCE RESULTS

Private Practitioners are listed with markers: Purple markers denote private practitioners' clinics. Pink markers reflect private practitioners base for home visits. Green markers denotes NHS services. Red markers reflect practitioners for virtual consultations. The Association of Tongue-Tie Practitioners is not responsible for the content of external links and websites.
Guide to who's who in Breast feeding support and lactation here Guide to qualifications:
RM Registered Midwife

RGN Registered General Nurse

RN Registered Nurse

RHV Registered Health Visitor

ANNP Advanced Neonatal Nurse Practitioner

MD Doctor of Medicine

BDS Dental Surgery

DO Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine

IBCLC International Board Certified Lactation Consultant

ABM BFC Association of Breast Feeding Mothers Breastfeeding Counsellor

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Find a Practitioner - Association of Tongue-tie Practitioners

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Thank you for using our listing page to find a tongue tie practitioner NHS or private. During this unprecedented pandemic of Covid 19, it should be noted that many services and practitioners are not operating as they usually do. Therefore Individual contact will need to be sought for each practitioner or service for up to date information.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Breastfeeding Oswestry. 518 likes. All things breastfeeding related for Oswestry and the surrounding areas. We also have a private grou

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Support with breastfeeding & tongue-tie | Registered Midwife

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Trust in an infant feeding specialist midwife & tongue-tie practitioner to provide you with professional reassurance in clinic & home appointments.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Safety planning

Personalised action plans

Help with understanding of the impact of domestic abuse on the family

Support in accessing housing, benefits advice, debt advice and legal services

Support at criminal and family courts

Support with reporting incidents to the Police

Support with social care

Support in accessing other services

Referrals to specialist counselling services

Individual face-to-face support and group work sessions aimed at building confidence and self esteem

DAWN builds trusting, supportive and empowering relationships, enabling individuals to move towards achieving their own personal goals.

Through the Freedom Programme, either in a group setting or one to one, DAWN also helps victims and survivors understand the complex dynamics of domestic abuse, reducing the likelihood of them entering future unhealthy relationships.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
DAWN - Domestic Abuse Support - Worcester Community Trust

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Safety planning Personalised action plans Help with understanding of the impact of domestic abuse on the family Support in accessing housing, benefits advice, debt advice and legal services Support at criminal and family courts Support with reporting incidents to the Police Support with social care Support in accessing other services Referrals to specialist counselling services Individual face-to-face support and group work sessions aimed at building confidence and self esteem DAWN builds trusting, supportive and empowering relationships, enabling individuals to move towards achieving their own personal goals.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Privacy Policy | Disclaimer | Login | Site Map | Website by From the Sticks