Breastfeeding

If this is the first time you are breastfeeding, it is important to get help and support on how to latch your baby to the breast correctly from the start.

If you have breastfed before, you will probably be confident about feeding this time around, but you should always ask the staff if you need help as babies can be very different.

A multilingual resource from Global Health Media on all aspects of breastfeeding is available here in a number of different languages.

Videos developed to support the HNY Best for You, Best for Baby - Breastfeeding Campaign can be accessed here .

Benefits of breastfeeding

There are so many benefits to breastfeeding but let’s start with the health benefits:

The antibodies in breastmilk protect your baby from all kinds of infection – this is particularly beneficial for premature babies who are more at risk
Your breastmilk is constantly changing according to your baby’s needs
Breastfeeding can reduce allergies, including hayfever and asthma
Promotes bonding and produces hormones that make you and your baby feel happier
Contains everything your baby needs to be healthy and grow

And don’t forget the practical benefits:

It’s free
It’s always available – no late-night dashes to the supermarket!
No need to prepare bottles in the middle of the night
It’s environmentally friendly; for more information please visit the NHS 'Start 4 Life' site here

It is recommended that babies are exclusively breastfed for at least the first six months. However, evidence shows that babies still benefit from having breastmilk for less time than this, and there are many benefits to feeding past six months too. The most important thing is to enjoy this special time with your baby.

There are a number of national and local organisations that will be able to advise, offer practical help and link you to other breastfeeding mums - please ask your midwife or health visitor for more information.

Start4Life Breastfeeding Resources - support and advice to pregnant women and new mothers to help them initiate and continue breastfeeding successfully.

National Breastfeeding Helpline - Open as usual from 9.30am-9.30pm 7 days a week on 0300 100 0212, or you can access the web chat here .

Breastfeeding Friend - For further support, try Breastfeeding Friend on Amazon Alexa/Google Home/Facebook Messenger.

Breastfeeding Network - offers independent, evidence-based information and support to help build awareness of breastfeeding to individuals and organisations and to support a mum in her choice to breastfeed.

Association of Breastfeeding Mothers (ABM) - a voluntary organisation founded in 1979 by mothers already experienced in breastfeeding counselling.

East Yorkshire breastfeeding support resources including an extensive list of East Riding Children's Centres and the day and time of the dedicated support groups can be accessed on their website here.