Whether you breastfeed, formula feed or do a bit of both, the NHS says there is lots of help available, and it can take time to feel confident. This guide explains your options and where to find support, without pressure either way.
Your options
- Breastfeeding. The NHS advises letting your baby feed as much as they want, which in the early days can be very often, day and night. As your baby grows, they settle into a pattern and feed for longer and less often.
- Formula feeding. You can bottle feed with infant formula, expressed breast milk, or a combination of both.
- A mix of both. Many families combine breast and bottle. It’s a valid choice, and support is available for it too.
There’s no wrong choice. What matters is that your baby is fed and you are supported.
Breastfeeding in the early days
It can feel harder than people expect at first, and that’s common, not a sign that something is wrong with you. Skin-to-skin contact and an early first feed (ideally within an hour of birth, when you and your baby are well) can help. Ask your midwife about infant feeding support before your baby arrives, so you know who to call. If it’s painful, or you’re struggling, ask for help early rather than pushing through. The NHS has a breastfeeding problems page, and the National Breastfeeding Helpline offers confidential support.
Formula feeding
- Follow the instructions on the tin exactly, since the amounts matter for your baby’s safety.
- Sterilise bottles and teats, and make up feeds fresh each time.
- Many families find “responsive” bottle feeding helpful, which means holding your baby close and watching their cues to decide when they’ve had enough, rather than aiming to finish the bottle.
- If you’re unsure which formula is suitable, ask your midwife or health visitor.
- If you plan to formula feed in hospital, ask your unit what it provides and what to bring.
Questions to ask before your baby arrives
- What infant feeding support does my maternity unit offer, and after I go home?
- Who can I call if feeding is hurting or isn’t going well?
- If I want to combine breast and bottle, how do I get started?
- Does my baby need any vitamin supplements?
When to get help
Contact your midwife, health visitor, GP or NHS 111 the same day if your baby is feeding poorly or refusing feeds, has fewer wet nappies than usual, is very sleepy and hard to wake, or has yellow skin or eyes. If you have a painful, red or hot area on a breast, or feel feverish or unwell, speak to your GP. Call 999 in an emergency.
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In our classes, Meg talks through feeding in a balanced, pressure-free way, so you know your options before your baby arrives.
Baby Steps GP provides antenatal education. This guide is general information, not medical advice, and doesn’t replace advice from your midwife, GP, health visitor or infant feeding specialist.