Breast | Bottle Feeding

Pumping can be a great way to increase your milk supply. If you're having trouble producing enough milk to keep your baby full, regular pumping will help keep your supply up. If you are looking to feed your baby through pumping, you should pump every 2-3 hours, or as often as your baby would naturally nurse. Most mums find that pumping every few hours maintains milk supply while preventing discomfort. Expressed breast milk can also be fed to the baby using a bottle or spoon. Not sure of the right breast pump for you? Take a look at our blog for a wearable breast pump comparison.

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends storing your breast milk at room temperature for up to four hours, in the fridge for up to four days and in the freezer for around six months. We have a great range of milk storage bags and organisers to choose from to help you with your pumping journey.

If you choose to breastfeed your child, all you truly need is yourself and your child—but there are plenty of products to support you while you keep baby close. For first-time mums, breastfeeding often takes time and practice, but your midwife or health visitor can offer advice and support. Many women look for a nursing pillow or feeding chair to help them find the perfect position while sitting, lying back, or lying down. We have an expert guide to nursing pillows for more tips and guidance. Other optional accessories include breast shields and nipple cups to help with breast and nipple pain during feeds, as well as manual and electric breast pumps and storage bags. Check out our breastfeeding guide for more helpful information.

Yes! It is one of the many benefits of baby wearing that we love. It is easy to nurse discreetly when the baby is in a sling as the fabric shields both the baby and the mother from the public view, and it means your hands can be free to do other things. It may take a little trial and error to get your baby in the right position.

Although breastfeeding has many benefits, don’t feel guilty if it isn’t for you. There are lots of reasons why some women don’t breastfeed or stop before they thought they would.

If you want to stop because you are worried about technique, latching or positioning, try to persevere if you can because you will both benefit and feeds get much quicker and easier - soon like second nature. Plus, without the need not bottle heaters, formula holders or sterilising, it is a very convenient way to feed.

However, it is always recommended to speak with a midwife or GP if you feel like there are medical reasons why you’re struggling to breastfeed.

Exclusive breastfeeding - so breast milk only - is recommended for around the first 6 months of your baby's life.

Breastfeeding alongside solid foods is also recommended for babies from 6 months. You and your baby can carry on enjoying the benefits of breastfeeding for as long as you like.

YES! Babies need to be fed around the clock so, unless you plan on staying at home all day for more than 6 months, you may find you need to breastfeed outside of the home.

There is nothing wrong with breastfeeding in public - in fact, in England and Wales it is illegal for anyone to ask a breastfeeding woman to leave a public space, such as a café or public transport.

Remember ... don’t feel like you should hide away, for example in a restaurant toilet. If you still don't feel comfortable feeding in public, you may want to start at home until you feel more confident or you can use clever covers for optimum discretion.

If your breasts feel engorged (full), it can help to feed your baby, massage your breast or express by hand. Try to avoid expressing too often as it can increase your milk supply and make this problem worse. A build-up of milk can sometimes cause mastitis.

This usually affects one breast and symptoms can come on quickly. You can develop mastitis at any time although it is common when breastfeeding in the first 3 months. It’s important to see your GP if you have any symptoms because you may need antibiotics.

When it comes to using a dummy, it's best to wait until breastfeeding is established. This process may vary but typically takes a few weeks. If you need assistance, don't hesitate to seek help. Once established, introducing a dummy won't have any negative impact. Bottle-fed babies can soothe with a dummy from birth, while breastfed babies may use the breast for comfort and calming.

Yes, you can breastfeed two babies at the same time. Numerous mamas have discovered that tandem nursing works for them and their family when they have two or even three children. Tandem nursing can also help mothers ease into the adjustment of having a new baby in the family, and children who have been breastfed together frequently can maintain a special bond throughout life.

Mixed feeding refers to combining breast and bottle feeding. The bottle can contain either breastmilk or formula milk. It takes time and practice for both you and your baby to become comfortable with breastfeeding, but once established, you can offer bottles of expressed milk or formula alongside breastfeeding. There are various reasons why mixed feeding may be necessary, such as difficulty establishing breastfeeding, concerns about your baby's weight, needing to go back to work or wanting your partner to be involved in feeding. Whatever the reason, mixed feeding can be a flexible and convenient option.

As a dad, you might wonder how to show support and connect with your little one while your partner breastfeeds. You can make a big impact by soothing, bathing, dressing, and cuddling your baby. Don't forget to burp your little one after feedings too! Additionally, keep your partner company and ensure she stays hydrated and nourished. Keep an eye out for signs of hunger so you can bring your baby to your partner for nursing. By learning your baby's signals, you'll be a vital part of the feeding experience.