# data[].attributes.headline
Signs that your baby is attached well to the breast

# data[].attributes.subject
Signs that your baby is attached well to the breast

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Signs that your baby is attached well to the breast - Google Docs

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Expressing breastmilk can relieve breast fullness, soften the breasts, and make it easier for the milk to flow. It is also important to maintain a mother's milk supply during separation and make milk available for someone else to feed the baby. This video shows how to hand express breastmilk.

Join the Conversation

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How to Express Breastmilk - Video - Global Health Media Project

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Expressing breastmilk can relieve breast fullness, soften the breasts, and make it easier for the milk to flow. It is also important to maintain a mother's

# data[].attributes.body
Each section is titled so you can navigate to what you want to look at.

You can then scroll down to see other information and videos in that section.

Videos are best opened in Youtube.

# data[].attributes.body
Whilst Breastfeeding Network are updating thier guidance please see this page.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Thrush and Breastfeeding - La Leche League GB

# data[].attributes.headline
ARDO website has lots of videos you need for hints and tips when expressing your milk

# data[].attributes.subject
ARDO website has lots of videos you need for hints and tips when expressing your milk

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Videos to help expressing mums. At Ardo, we understand what it is like to be a new mum and feel overwhelmed by having a new born baby and the need to express. That is why we have produced a comprehensive range of videos to help you navigate your breastmilk feeding journey.

# data[].attributes.body
Tuesday Afternoon This is appointment only for babies 8 weeks and under.

Please call the advice line on 0208 770 5409 to book

1:1 Infant Feeding support clinic

Green Oak Children's Centre.

671 London Road

Worcester Park

SM3 9DL

Tuesdays drop-in 1:30pm-3:30pm

Please arrive withing an hour of the start time

Infant feeding coffee group

Green Oak Children's Centre.

671 London Road

Worcester Park

SM3 9DL

1:1 support is available from the infant feeding team during this session

Wednesdays drop-in 2pm-4pm Women only group

Please arrive withing an hour of the start time

Dolphin Coffee Group

Drop in mother to mother emotional and feeding support

Dolphin Centre, 316 High Street, Sutton, SM1 1PR

Support is available from the infant feeding team during this session

Thursday Morning This is appointment only for babies 8 weeks and under.

Please call the advice line on 0208 770 5409 to book

1:1 Infant Feeding support clinic

Carshalton Family Hub

Tweeddale Road

Carshalton

SM5 1SW

Run by the Sutton Infant Feeding Team

Friday's drop-in 10am-12noon

Please arrive withing an hour of the start time

Wallington Family Hub at the Phoenix centre, SM6 9NZ

Drop in mother to mother emotional and feeding support

1:1 support is available from the infant feeding team during this session

# data[].attributes.body
This video shows that when a baby is left after delivery they will find the breast and attach themselves, whatever the size or shape the nipple.

# data[].attributes.headline
Breastfeeding Network information on Thrush

# data[].attributes.subject
Breastfeeding Network information on Thrush

# data[].attributes.body
This information is currently being updated by BfN therefore we are not currently able to share.

# data[].attributes.headline
The Early Weeks with your baby sessions at the Carshalton Family Hub.  Tweeddale Road, Carshalton, SM5 1SW.  Please phone 020 8770 5409 or email the infant feeding team to book.Please phone 020 8770 5409 or email the infant feeding team to book.

# data[].attributes.subject
The Early Weeks with your baby sessions at the Carshalton Family Hub.  Tweeddale Road, Carshalton, SM5 1SW.  Please phone 020 8770 5409 or email the infant feeding team to book.Please phone 020 8770 5409 or email the infant feeding team to book.

# data[].attributes.body
The early weeks with your baby can be an exciting time, but it can also be overwhelming.

The Sutton Health Visiting Service offers face to face antenatal sessions to help you think about the early weeks with your baby. We hope that these sessions will help manage some of the expectations you may have.

They are run once a month on a Saturday.

In this session we cover your expectations, feeding your baby, safe sleep and any questions you have regarding looking after your baby.

This is also an opportunity to meet other parents who are starting their parenting journey.

# data[].attributes.body
Email: infantfeedingteam@sutton.gov.uk

Sutton Health Visiting Duty Line
020 8770 5409

# data[].attributes.headline
Breastfeeding Network information on Mastitis

# data[].attributes.subject
Breastfeeding Network information on Mastitis

# data[].attributes.body
Blocked ducts and mastitis can be a common condition in breastfeeding women that may or may not be associated with infection. It commonly occurs in 10-33% of lactating women.

Did you know you don't always need antibiotics to treat it?

Here is some up to date information on how to self-manage, but do always get in touch with us if you would like further support.

# data[].attributes.body
Introducing solid foods to your baby is a fun and exciting time for all of you. There is a lot of information available and you may not know where to start so this is a very helpful resource that will take you through your feeding journey.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
What is weaning?

Introducing your baby to solid foods, also referred to as weaning or complementary feeding, starts when your baby is around 6 months old.

Your baby should be introduced to a varied diet, alongside their usual breast milk or first infant formula.

It can be confusing knowing when and how to start introducing solid foods. We're here to guide you through the weaning journey and explain what it all means.

We've got expert NHS advice, helpful videos, tips from other parents, and lots of simple, healthy weaning recipe and meal ideas.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Weaning means introducing your baby to solid foods alongside their usual breast milk or infant formula. We're here to guide you through the journey.

# data[].attributes.body
Feeding in public can sometimes feel a bit daunting so we are gathering cafes/restaurants in Sutton where you might feel more comfortable to feed your baby.

The Sound Lounge,

216-220 Sutton High Street

SM1 1NU

www.thesoundlounge.org.uk

Baby Feeding Room

St Nicholas Shopping Centre, 2nd Floor

Sutton,

SM1 1AY

# data[].attributes.body
Global Health Media

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Attaching Your Baby at the Breast – Breastfeeding Series

# data[].attributes.headline
Returning to work should not stop your breastfeeding journey.

# data[].attributes.subject
Returning to work should not stop your breastfeeding journey.

# data[].attributes.body
If you are considering returning to work and would like to continue to breastfeed, please do contact us so we can work out an individual plan with you.

# data[].attributes.headline
Why are we talking about paced bottle feeding?

# data[].attributes.subject
Why are we talking about paced bottle feeding?

# data[].attributes.body
Over the past few years we have changed how we offer our babies bottles.

Traditionally we have said to fill the teat up completely, so as to stop them getting trapped wind, but the sad thing is that this can also lead to overfeeding your baby.

We now recommend that you hold the bottle horizontally and that just the very tip of the teat is full.  This allows your baby to take the milk at their own pace, taking breaks and pauses.  Research shows that when babies are fed this way it can reduce the rate of obesity at one year and then into childhood and subsequently adulthood.

# data[].attributes.body
Safer sleep advice has reduced the rate of Sudden Infant Deaths by 83% since 1991.  Please see this website for all the guidance you need.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Lullaby Trust raises awareness of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), provides expert advice on safer sleep for babies and offers emotional support for bereaved families

# data[].attributes.headline
Infant feeding session Wednesday 9am - 10:30am. Carshalton Family Hub, Tweeddale Road, Carshalton, SM5 1SW.  Please phone 020 8770 5409 or email the infant feeding team to book.

# data[].attributes.subject
Infant feeding session Wednesday 9am - 10:30am. Carshalton Family Hub, Tweeddale Road, Carshalton, SM5 1SW.  Please phone 020 8770 5409 or email the infant feeding team to book.

# data[].attributes.body
This session is run once a month at the Carshalton Family Hub covering infant feeding for pregnant mothers and their partners

# data[].attributes.headline
Many mothers are told that they need to stop breastfeeding due to medications. Here is a valuable resource for you to look at before taking any medications.

# data[].attributes.subject
Many mothers are told that they need to stop breastfeeding due to medications. Here is a valuable resource for you to look at before taking any medications.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Drugs in Breastmilk factsheets - The Breastfeeding Network

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
These factsheets have been compiled by our Drugs in Breastmilk information service team of pharmacists. If you are unable to find the information you are looking for below, or you still have questions, you can contact the team by sending a private message via our Facebook page or via email. Please provide as much information as possible (age […]

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
In 2014 the journal Maternal and Child Health published a study looking at breastfeeding and maternal depression. It found that mothers who planned to breastfeed and went on to do so were around 50% less likely to become depressed than mothers who had planned to, and did not, breastfeed ¹.

This study emphasises how crucial it is for mothers to know how to get support so they can continue breastfeeding for as long as they want to. Furthermore it shows that access to support may play a key role in helping to prevent postnatal depression.

Breastfeeding can protect against Postnatal Depression

The study showed that breastfeeding has well-established benefits to babies, in terms of their physical health and cognitive development. It also showed that breastfeeding benefits the mental health of mothers.

Kathleen Kendall-Tackett, PhD, IBCLC and La Leche League Leader agrees in her book Depression and New Mothers. She reports that "rates of depression are lower in breastfeeding mothers than their non- breastfeeding counterparts"². She also notes that "breastfeeding is protective of maternal mental health because it reduces the stress response".
Breastfeeding has been demonstrated to enhance interactions between mothers and babies: mothers who breastfeed show increased physiological and social responsiveness to their babies ³. Breastfed babies have been shown to be more alert and responsive ⁴ and more reciprocity and affection has been observed in breastfeeding dyads 5, 6.

When Postnatal Depression is diagnosed

If a woman becomes depressed while breastfeeding some health care professionals consider breastfeeding a risk factor, and they might urge her to stop in order to recover. This does not take into account the research demonstrating breastfeeding's protective effect on maternal health. Many medications for postnatal depression are compatible with breastfeeding: it should be possible to discuss a treatment plan with health professionals which is right for each individual circumstance.

In Depression and New Mothers Kendall Tackett explains why breastfeeding protects babies from the harmful effects of maternal depression. One reason is that by simply breastfeeding mothers are more likely to touch, stroke, and make eye contact with their babies. She says another possible explanation for the beneficial effect includes the release of feel-good hormones when milk is produced. This is one more reason for encouraging mothers to continue to breastfeed even while depressed.

A 2004 study ⁷ also found that breastfeeding protected infants from the harmful effects of maternal depression. The study compared four groups of infants: infants of depressed mothers who were either breast or bottle-feeding, and infants of non-depressed mothers who were either breast or bottle-feeding. The infants of depressed bottle-feeding mothers had abnormal brain activation patterns, such as those found in previous studies. But the infants of depressed breastfeeding mothers were no different than those of non-depressed mothers.

Stress can affect depression

Writing in Leaven, a publication produced by La Leche League International, August-September 2005, Kendall-Tackett explains how stress and fatigue can increase risk for depression, but lowering stress can be protective. This is an area where breastfeeding can make a difference.

A 2002 study ⁸ compared maternal stress levels after both breast and bottle-feeding, with 28 mothers who were doing both. They measured stress immediately after breastfeeding, and immediately after these same mothers bottle-fed. The design of this study allowed the authors to account for pre-existing differences in mothers who chose to breastfeed rather than bottle feed since each mother was compared to herself. They found that the act of breastfeeding decreased mothers' negative moods, and when these same women bottle-fed, bottle-feeding decreased their positive mood.

Support needed for breastfeeding difficulties

While breastfeeding is very effective in lowering stress, breastfeeding difficulties can increase stress and this may contribute to developing depression. It is vitally important that women who want to breastfeed get the support they need.

Dr Iacovou says "However good the level of support that's provided, there will be some mothers who wanted to breastfeed and who don't manage to. It's clear that these mothers need a great deal of understanding and support; there is currently hardly any skilled specialist help for these mothers, and this is something else that health providers should be thinking about.".

La Leche League GB agrees with her comments that "Lots of mothers and babies take to breastfeeding pretty easily. But for many others, it doesn't come naturally at all; for these mothers, having someone with the training, the skills, and perhaps most importantly the time to help them get it right, can make all the difference."

Postpartum Psychosis

Postpartum Psychosis is a severe form of postnatal depression which affects around one in a 1000 women. If a woman develops this while breastfeeding either she, or a relative, can let her doctor know how important continuing to breastfeed is to her and provide information about the protective effects. Some mothers have said that even if their thoughts were illogical, breastfeeding was the one thing they felt clear about. The stress caused by ceasing breastfeeding could add to their difficulties.
If a woman is hospitalised the hospital may agree to her having her baby with her as long as another family member is also present and agrees to be responsible for the baby. Family support can be vital at this time and breastfeeding can help in the healing process.

Medication compatibility

One valuable source of accurate information is Dr Thomas Hale's reference book (and online access) Hale's Medications & Mothers' Milk 2021: A Manual of Lactational Pharmacology. It may be possible for a mother, or her relative, to ask a psychiatrist to look up the psychiatric medications he plans to prescribe. Dr Hale's book gives accurate information about drug levels and when they peak. The dose can then be managed so that peak levels in the bloodstream fit around breastfeeding. It may be possible to nurse a baby as much as possible before the medication to allow as much time as possible before nursing again.
Sometimes it is necessary to ask for a second opinion in order to find a doctor who understands how important this is for a mother.

Where to get support

Being aware of factors which may lead to depression will hopefully enable women to get the support they need before things escalate. Protecting the breastfeeding relationship between a mother and her baby is of significant consequence.
LLLGB Leaders offer telephone counselling, group meetings, leaflets, and support by email and social media. Most of all they are a listening ear when things are not going well with breastfeeding. They offer accurate information so that women can decide what feels right for them and their baby. Our official La Leche League GB because Breastfeeding Matters page offers information and support.

Written by Anna Burbidge

Further Reading
Adjusting to motherhood
When a mother is ill
Supporting a breastfeeding mother
Why come to LLL meetings
When breastfeeding ends suddenly
Breastfeeding linked to lower risk of postnatal depression
Books
Depression and New Mothers Kathleen A Kendall-Tackett, Routledge, 2009 Non-Pharmacologic Treatments for Depression in New Mothers Kathleen A Kendall-Tackett, Hale Pub. Jun 2008

LLLI articles & stories
Why breastfeeding is good for mothers' mental health, a new article by Katheen Kendall-Tackett
Breastfeeding: what's in it for mothers
References
1. Borra, C., Iacovou, M. and Sevilla, A. "New Evidence on Breastfeeding and Postpartum Depression: The Importance of Understanding Women's Intentions". Maternal and Child Health Journal: 20 Aug 2014
2. Dennis and McQueen, 2009
3. Wiesenfeld, A. R., C. Zander Malatesta, P. B. Whitman et al. Psychophysiological response of breast- and bottle-feeding mothers to their infants' signals. Psychophysiology 1985; 22:79-86.
4. Worobey, J. Feeding method and motor activity in 3-month-old human infants. Perceptual and Motor Skills 1998; 86:883-95
5. Bernal, J., and M. Richards. The effects of bottle and breastfeeding on infant development. Journal of Psychosomatic Research 1970; 14:247-52
6. Dunn, J., and M. Richards. Observations on the developing relationship between mother and baby in the neonatal period. In Studies in Mother-Infant Interaction, ed. R. Schaffer. New York: Academic Press, 1977
7. Jones, N.A., McFall, B.A. and Diego, M.A. Patterns of brain electrical activity in infants of depressed mothers who breastfeed and bottle feed: The mediating role of infant temperament. Biol Psychol 2004; 67(1-2):103-24.
8. Mezzacappa, E.S. and Katkin, E.S. Breastfeeding is associated with reduced perceived stress and negative mood in mothers. Health Psychol 2002; 21:187-93

Copyright LLLGB 2016

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Breastfeeding and Postnatal Depression - La Leche League GB

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In 2014 the journal Maternal and Child Health published a study looking at breastfeeding and maternal depression. It found that mothers who planned to breastfeed and went on to do so were around 50% less likely to become depressed than mothers who had planned to, and did not, breastfeed1.

# data[].attributes.headline
GP Infant Feeding Network Maternal Mental Health

# data[].attributes.subject
GP Infant Feeding Network Maternal Mental Health

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
When it comes to breastfeeding, wish my GP had accurate information on drugs which are safe, particularly anti-depressants.

AP, Mother

I was told to stop (breastfeeding) and not offered any further support as I got PND.

HP, Mother

The Importance of Maternal Mental Health
Approximately 1 in 5 women will suffer from perinatal mental health problems (during pregnancy and in the year after birth) and currently only 50% of these will be diagnosed 1, 2. The range of conditions in the perinatal period include antenatal and postnatal depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder and postpartum psychosis, as well as pre-existing mental health problems and substance misuse. Additionally, research is emerging to highlight the importance of paternal mental health, with estimates that approximately 10% of fathers will suffer from prenatal or postnatal depression, more commonly if their partner is suffering from depression ³.

In recent years significant reports have highlighted the importance of improving the quality of UK perinatal mental health care in order to save maternal and infant lives, improve quality of life for the family, protect infant mental health and reduce the economic cost of perinatal mental illness. Early diagnosis and access to peer support, psychological therapies, medication, specialist care and admission if necessary, can facilitate the best possible outcomes.
Familiarisation with local perinatal mental health service provision, health visiting contacts and infant feeding support is important in the management of perinatal mental health problems and supporting maternal wellbeing. NSPCC: Infographic of the Estimated Numbers of Women Affected by Perinatal Mental Illness in England Each Year
LSE and Centre for Mental Health: The Costs of Perinatal Mental Health Problems (2014)

RCGP & The Centre for Mental Health: Falling Through the Gaps - Perinatal Mental Health and General Practice (2015)
The Significance of Infant Feeding for Maternal Mental Health
The relationship between infant feeding and maternal wellbeing should not be underestimated. Very young babies require feeding approximately 8-12 times a day and feeding becomes a major part of the new routine. Feeding provides comfort to the infant and an opportunity for bonding, and feeding difficulties (including reflux, allergies, tongue-tie and colic) can be very distressing and can impact on parents' mental health. Equally, maternal mental illness may impact on a mother's ability to pursue her own feeding goals, and may impact on feeding choices.

Infant Feeding Wellbeing and Mental Health Article written by Dr Louise Santhanam for the RCGP Perinatal Mental Health Toolkit, July 2016
This page of our website is not intended to be a comprehensive guide to perinatal mental health, but serves to illustrate links between infant feeding issues and maternal wellbeing. Breastfeeding and Lowering of Depression Risk
Mothers who meet their personal goals for breastfeeding duration have been shown to be at lower risk of postnatal depression, while mothers who plan to breastfeed but do not go on to do so are at higher risk ⁴. Higher depression scores have been demonstrated in mothers who stop breastfeeding due to physical difficulty and pain, rather than personal choice ⁵.

The 2010 UK Infant Feeding Survey ⁶ demonstrated:

While 69% of mothers were exclusively breastfeeding at birth, this figure had dropped to 23% by 6 weeks postnatal.

80% of mothers who stopped breastfeeding within the first week reported they would have like to continue for longer.

85% of mothers who had stopped breastfeeding between one and two weeks reported they would have like to continue for longer.

63% of mothers who had stopped breastfeeding by 8-10 months reported that they would have liked to continue for longer.

Many women who initiate breastfeeding stop before they had planned to do so due to problems with attachment at the breast (the 'latch'), problems with milk supply (real or perceived) and pain.

The main factors that mothers who breastfed for less than one week indicated could have helped them continue for longer were:

More support and guidance from hospital staff, midwives and family (23%)

If the baby could have latched on the breast easier (19%)

Less pain (14%)

Good quality breastfeeding support to prevent and correct reversible problems, aftercare for mothers who stop breastfeeding before they planned to and accurate advice from healthcare professionals therefore play a role in protecting maternal mental health 4, 5, 7. Furthermore, to reduce the risk to those who face difficulties breastfeeding, breastfeeding promotion should be accompanied by ongoing support from healthcare professionals, family and friends, and society in general. The responsibility for healthy infant feeding should be viewed as a collective one, rather than that of an individual with the potential for personal 'failure' ⁸.
Tips for the GP Supporting Maternal Wellbeing & Infant Feeding

Acknowledge the ongoing value of breastfeeding to mother and infant for as long as they are both comfortable.

Support a mother's personal feeding goals wherever possible, alongside prescribing, planning investigations and making referrals.

Appreciate that breastfeeding problems need prompt attention and know how to refer for a specialist lactation assessment and breastfeeding support locally.

How do you feel about that now?
Breastfeeding & Medication for Perinatal Mental Health
NICE Guideline CG192 (Updated June 2015) ¹² recommends discussing breastfeeding with all women who may need to take psychotropic medication in pregnancy or in the postnatal period. Clinicians should aim to enable informed decision making by the mother, and if necessary seek further specialist advice, ideally from the Perinatal Mental Health Team. Good practice includes:

Discussing the 'benefits of breastfeeding, the potential risks associated with taking psychotropic medication when breastfeeding and with stopping some medications in order to breastfeed'

Treatment options that enable a woman to breastfeed if she wishes

Support for women who choose not to breastfeed after a discussion of this information

NICE Guideline PH11 (Updated November 2014) ¹³ states that sources of information for prescribing other than the British National Formulary (BNF) should be used to discuss the safety of drugs in breastmilk. See our webpage on ' Prescribing Information ' for useful sources of specialist prescribing information.

Where a woman of reproductive age has a pre-existing mental health problem the GP should be mindful of the possibility of pregnancy and subsequent lactation. If drug treatment is required, wherever possible patients should be counselled with this in mind and a careful choice of drug made. If pregnancy is being planned, or medications are required during lactation, specialist advice should be considered 12, 13.

NICE Guideline CG192 Antenatal and postnatal mental health: clinical management and service guidance Updated June 2015, Section 1.4 highlights relevant issues for infant feeding.

NICE Guidelines PH11 Maternal and Child Nutrition Updated November 2014, Refers to prescribing issues.
Birth Trauma, Preterm Infants, the Unwell Baby and Infant Feeding

For me breastfeeding kept me alive, on the days when I had no idea if I would make it, I lived to express for my baby. When I went home, when I was battling flashbacks and nightmares from the birth, when I was scared and worried about my baby, breastfeeding was my lifeline. When I held her to my breast I felt calm, and safe. The terror went away and the fear eased.

E, Mother

Following a traumatic birth breastfeeding can either have therapeutic benefit or be associated with further distress ⁹. The opportunity if desired to discuss the birth experience and non-judgmental, respectful breastfeeding support are important.

Enabling breastfeeding or the feeding of maternal expressed breastmilk for a baby on the NICU may be beneficial for mothers as it can facilitate involvement in the treatment of their baby, (due to the benefits of breastmilk in reducing the risk of necrotising enterocolitis) ¹⁴. If a mother is breastfeeding, this should be taken into consideration when initiating treatment for birth trauma or PTSD, and the impact of the feeding experience considered in all cases.

I learned that you do not have to breastfeed to bond with your baby. All that is required for bonding is that the caregiver loves the child and is free to express that love.

L, Mother

Infant Feeding on Psychiatric Inpatient Mother and Baby Units (MBUs)
Access to MBU beds nationwide is important to enable mothers with severe mental illness who wish to breastfeed as well as to encourage positive attachment, increase the mother's confidence in her maternal role and provide support for the family in all cases ¹⁵. Healthcare professionals should be aware that a breastfeeding mother and baby need to remain physically close as responsive feeding establishes and maintains good milk supply.
Dysphoric Milk Ejection Reflex (D-MER)
D-MER is a physiological phenomenon, recently described in case studies as a brief period of intense negative emotions, occurring seconds before a milk let-down with normal mood between episodes. Symptoms range from mild (anxiety, a sense of dread) to severe (anger and suicidal thoughts) and can result in discontinuation of breastfeeding due to the distress caused. D-MER should not be confused with depression and is not a psychological condition. Some cases reportedly improve with understanding the condition and simple lifestyle changes, but in the case of severe symptoms specialist advice may be required ¹⁶.
Further Reading

A Breastfeeding Friendly Approach to Postpartum Depression Kendall-Tackett K, Praeclarus Press (2015) ISBN-13: 978-1939807298 Covers the evidence for the relationship between breastfeeding and maternal wellbeing, and how the clinician can support new mothers experiencing mental ill health.

Healing Breastfeeding Grief Jacobson H, Rosalind Press (2016) ISBN-13: 978-0979599521 Addresses mothers' feelings and healing from difficult breastfeeding experiences.
References

1. LSE and Centre for Mental Health: The Costs of Perinatal Mental Health Problems 2014

2. RCGP & The Centre for Mental Health: Falling Through the Gaps - Perinatal Mental Health and General Practice 2015

3. Paulson J, Bazemore S. Prenatal and Postpartum Depression in Fathers and Its Association With Maternal Depression. JAMA. 2010;303(19):1961.

4. Borra C, Iacovou M, Sevilla A. New Evidence on Breastfeeding and Postpartum Depression: The Importance of Understanding Women's Intentions. Maternal and Child Health Journal. 2014;19(4):897-907.

5. Brown A, Rance J, Bennett P. Understanding the relationship between breastfeeding and postnatal depression: the role of pain and physical difficulties. Journal of Advanced Nursing. 2015;72(2):273-282.

6. UK Infant Feeding Survey 2010

7. Chaput K, Nettel-Aguirre A, Musto R, Adair C, Tough S. Breastfeeding difficulties and supports and risk of postpartum depression in a cohort of womenwho have given birth in Calgary: a prospective cohort study. Canadian Medical Association Journal Open. 2016;4(1):E103-E109.

8. Ashmore S. Changing the conversation around breastfeeding 2016

9. Beck C, Watson S. Impact of Birth Trauma on Breast-feeding. Nursing Research. 2008;57(4):228-236.

10. Ainsworth M, Bowlby J. An ethological approach to personality development. American Psychologist. 1991;46(4):333-341

11. Bigelow A, Power M, MacLellan‐Peters J, Alex M, McDonald C. Effect of Mother/Infant Skin‐to‐Skin Contact on Postpartum Depressive Symptoms and Maternal Physiological Stress. Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing. 2012;41(3):369-382.

12. NICE Guideline CG192 Antenatal and postnatal mental health: clinical management and service guidance Updated June 2015 - specifically section 1.4

13. NICE Guidelines PH11 Maternal and Child Nutrition (Updated November 2014)

14. Lucas A, Cole T. Breast milk and neonatal necrotising enterocolitis. Lancet. 1990;336(8730-8731):1519-1523.

15. NICE CKS Depression Antenatal and Postnatal- Scenario Postnatal: new episode Revised September 2015

16. D-MER Website

Published April 2017, Updated September 29th 2017

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
by Dr Louise Santhanam, General Practitioner When it comes to breastfeeding, wish my GP had accurate information on drugs which are safe, particularly anti-depressants. AP, Mother I was told to stop (breastfeeding) and not offered any further support as I got PND. HP, Mother The Importance of Maternal Mental Health Approximately 1 in 5 women will...

# data[].attributes.headline
If you would like to give any feedback to the infant feeding team please fill in the form below.

# data[].attributes.subject
If you would like to give any feedback to the infant feeding team please fill in the form below.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Thank you for attending our group. We hope you had as much fun attending as we did. We want to hear your feedback so we can keep improving. Please fill this quick survey and let us know your thoughts (your answers can be anonymous).

# data[].attributes.headline
When your partner (or daughter/ daughter-in-law) is breastfeeding your baby, you can sometimes feel unsure about how to help her, so here are some great leaflets that give you some tips. 

# data[].attributes.subject
When your partner (or daughter/ daughter-in-law) is breastfeeding your baby, you can sometimes feel unsure about how to help her, so here are some great leaflets that give you some tips. 

# data[].attributes.body
Infant Feeding Support Worker

Victoria works Mon-Fri 8am-4pm

# data[].attributes.body
Infant Feeding Lead

Morwenna Works Tues-Thurs (working hours vary) and one Monday per month.

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

As a new mum, the thought of breastfeeding in public may make you feel nervous. You might be worried about other people's reactions, how and where you'll be able to do it, you may even be wondering if you're legally allowed to breastfeed in public. Don't worry, we're here to help and hopefully put your mind at rest.

Am I allowed to breastfeed in public?

Yes, the law protects breastfeeding mums. You are legally allowed to breastfeed your baby in public. That might be a café, shop, library or on public transport (basically any business that provides a service to the public). The Equality Act states that it is sex discrimination to treat a woman unfavourably if she is breastfeeding.

Fortunately, the majority of people don't mind a woman breastfeeding her child, or simply don't notice. If you feel self-conscious, try to remind yourself that you are doing the best and most natural thing for your baby. The more it's done, the more normal it will become.

If you are asked to leave somewhere because you are breastfeeding, you are absolutely within your rights to challenge that request. If it becomes uncomfortable, and you don't want to stick around, contact the Government Equalities Office. A solicitor will advise you if a claim can be brought forward for discrimination.

Breastfeeding Friend from Start for Life

The Breastfeeding Friend, a digital tool from Start for Life, has lots of useful information and expert advice to share with you - and because it's a digital tool, you can access it 24 / 7.

Where's the best place for me to breastfeed?

While you are legally allowed to breastfeed anywhere, it might be a good idea to start off with some breastfeeding-friendly places in your local area. That way you don't need to worry about being challenged in any way. Some may even have mother and baby rooms where you can be left to feed and change your baby in peace. Ask your breastfeeding friends, midwife or health visitor for tips on good places to go. And look out for Breastfeeding Friendly or Breastfeeding Welcome stickers in the window.

Over time, the more confident you feel about breastfeeding while out and about, the easier it will become. You'll get to the point where it becomes second nature to breastfeed your baby wherever you happen to be.

Breastfeeding clothes

You don't need to spend lots of money on nursing clothes. Some mums use a large muslin, or scarf to cover themselves while breastfeeding. Some find it's better to wear two stretchy tops - one to cover the tummy, and the other to cover their breasts. Others prefer wearing loose tops that can be lifted up. There is no right or wrong type of clothing, it's personal choice and what feels more comfortable to you.

Remember, there are still certain places that you will be required to wear a face mask, for example in a taxi or on public transport. Read about when to wear a face covering on the GOV.UK website.

Other people...

Rest assured, the majority of people don't bat an eyelid, or even notice if a mum is breastfeeding her child.

In a Start for Life survey, 72% of people said they supported women breastfeeding in public. You may even find people making lovely, positive comments - so please don't let the small minority of people put you off.

For confidential breastfeeding information and support, call the National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212. Lines are open 9:30am to 9:30pm every day.

Sign up now for our pregnancy, baby and toddler guide

Get personalised emails for trusted NHS advice, videos and tips on your pregnancy week by week, birth and parenthood.
Get weekly emails

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
You are legally allowed to breastfeed in public. It may take a while to feel confident, but the more you do it the more normal it will become. Read more

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Skip to main content As a new mum, the thought of breastfeeding in public may make you feel nervous. You might be worried about other people's reactions, how and where you'll be able to do it, you may even be wondering if you're legally allowed to breastfeed in public.

# data[].attributes.body
MidYorksNHS

# data[].attributes.body
The safest place for your baby is in a cot in the same room as you, however if you plan to share a bed with your baby, please see the following guidance for doing it as safely as possible.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
To reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) the safest place for a baby to sleep is in their own clear, flat, separate sleep space, such as a cot or Moses basket. However, we know that many parents find themselves co-sleeping whether they mean to or not. Wherever you're planning for your baby to sleep we recommend making your bed a safer place for baby. Our advice on co-sleeping with your baby will tell you how.

When not to co-sleep

Whether you choose to co-sleep or it is unplanned, there are some key risks you should avoid.
Co-sleeping with your baby is very dangerous if:
In these scenarios, it is always best to put baby in their own safe sleep space, such as a cot or Moses basket. Keeping the cot or Moses basket next to your bed might make this easier.
Never fall asleep on a sofa or armchair with your baby. The risk of SIDS is 50 times higher for babies when they sleep on a sofa or armchair with an adult. They are also at risk of accidental death as they can easily slip into a position where they are trapped and can't breathe.
Co-sleeping more safely

Keep pillows and adult bedding away from your baby or any other items that could cover their head or cause them to overheat. A high proportion of babies who die as a result of SIDS are found with their head covered by loose bedding.

Follow all The Lullaby Trust's other safer sleep advice to reduce the risk of SIDS such as sleeping baby on their back

To reduce the risk of accidents, do not bring other children or pets into bed with you.

Try to make sure or check that baby cannot be trapped, wedged or fall out of bed or get trapped between the mattress and the wall

Never leave your baby unattended in an adult bed

For more info on co-sleeping and safer sleep read our guide for parents
If you are bedsharing with your baby you should consider any risks before every sleep. It is easy for your situation to change if you are unwell or have drunk any alcohol, which means your baby will be safest in a separate sleep space such as a cot or Moses basket on that occasion.

Co-sleeping with your baby: FAQs

I am worried I might fall asleep while I breastfeed my baby at night, is this ok?

Click here to open this question

Breastfeeding reduces the chance of SIDS. If you feel you might fall asleep we would recommend you prepare the bed as described above so it is safer for baby if this happens.

Make sure you know the advice on when never to co-sleep so you know when to take particular care. It is really important that you do not accidentally fall asleep with your baby on a sofa or armchair. If you think you might fall asleep on a sofa or armchair, put the baby down in a safe place to sleep.

Should I co-sleep with my baby?

Click here to open this question

The safest place for a baby is their own separate sleep space, such as a cot or Moses basket. We would just advise you to read all the information on co-sleeping and how to reduce the risks, so you can make an informed decision for you and your baby.

However, there are some circumstances where we would strongly recommend against co-sleeping such as on a sofa or armchair, if anyone in the bed smokes or has drunk alcohol or your baby was premature or a low birth weight.

Can I co-sleep with twins or multiples?

Click here to open this question

If you choose to bedshare with twins or multiples we would advise not to bedshare with more than one baby at a time due to risk of accidents associated with bedsharing with more than one baby or child.

Is it safer to co-sleep using a nest or pod than with a baby just lying on the adult bed?

Click here to open this question

No. We do not recommend that babies sleep on soft surfaces such as pods or nests. If you choose to co-sleep with your baby the safest place is a clear space on a firm flat mattress the same as we would advise with a cot.

Why do you advise against co-sleeping in certain scenarios?

Click here to open this question

It is estimated that around half of SIDS deaths occur whilst co-sleeping, and that most of these are in high risk situations. We do not know the cause of SIDS and why these deaths happen but we do know what some of the risk factors are and that removing those risks greatly lowers the chance of SIDS occurring.

For that reason we strongly advise against co-sleeping when there are risk factors such as a baby being premature or a parent having drunk alcohol.

What bedding should I use for my baby when we co-sleep?
The Lullaby Trust has worked with Public Heath England, Unicef UK Baby Friendly and Basis on two publications to support families with safer sleep advice and advice on co-sleeping more safely. We have also collaborated on a guide for health professionals to have more open and productive discussions with families about safer sleep and co-sleeping. These can be downloaded below.

Click here to open this question

Adult bedding should be kept well away from your baby along with any belts or cords from clothing. Keep adult bedding at your waist height and add an extra layer of clothing if you are cold

A baby sleeping bag is a good way of giving your baby their own bedding when bedsharing.

Baby sleeping bags should be well fitted, so the baby can't wriggle down inside. Most sleeping bags are fitted according to a baby's weight, rather than age.

You might also be interested in reading the two Unicef Baby Friendly publications, which are both endorsed by The Lullaby Trust:

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Some parents choose to share a bed (known as co-sleeping) with their babies. Read our advice on how to co-sleep more safely.

# data[].attributes.headline
Maternity Action: know your rights when returning to work and breastfeeing

# data[].attributes.subject
Maternity Action: know your rights when returning to work and breastfeeing

# data[].attributes.headline
UNICEF Video - The importance of relationship building

# data[].attributes.subject
UNICEF Video - The importance of relationship building

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Unicef UK Baby Friendly Initiative | Importance of relationship building

# data[].attributes.body
If you pay your council tax to Sutton you are very welcome to join any of the drop-in sessions that are listed.

# data[].attributes.body
Please contact your local community infant feeding team for ongoing support.

# data[].attributes.body
This is a helpful information sheet which explains in more depth why mastitis occurs

# data[].attributes.headline
Being a grandparent - your support is vital!

# data[].attributes.subject
Being a grandparent - your support is vital!

# data[].attributes.headline
Colostrum Collection - Wednesday mornings please call the Health Visiting service on 02087705409 to book an appointment at the Carshalton Family hub, Tweeddale Road, Carshalton, SM5 1SW

# data[].attributes.subject
Colostrum Collection - Wednesday mornings please call the Health Visiting service on 02087705409 to book an appointment at the Carshalton Family hub, Tweeddale Road, Carshalton, SM5 1SW

# data[].attributes.body
We offer one to one colostrum collection appointments to teach hand expressing and collect colostrum before your baby is born from 36 weeks of pregnancy.

# data[].attributes.headline
We are a UNICEF BFI fully accreddited service

# data[].attributes.subject
We are a UNICEF BFI fully accreddited service

# data[].attributes.body
Sometimes you can't remember all that we've said to you and would like us to be at home with you. In this video you can see all the tips that we will have given you during your session with us, either about breast or bottle feeding.