Breastfeeding & lactation
You may hear “breast is best” or “fed is best”... We believe informed and supported is best.
Informed & supported is best
One of the first choices a parent faces after the birth of their child is how to feed them. Many factors play into that decision, and breastfeeding may not be “best” for everyone’s body or wellbeing.
These materials offer information, education and support so that parents are empowered to navigate their lactation journey and arrive at a place – wherever that may be – where they feel comfortable and confident.
Materials
A number of reputable websites have translations of breastfeeding information. Videos and telephone helplines are also available in multiple languages.
The first few days
You and your baby are getting to know each other – it may take time to get the hang of breastfeeding. UNICEF UK materials are also available in 11 languages.
Multilingual short videos
Global Health Media Project videos on different breastfeeding scenarios, including for small babies.
Nursing preterm babies
Michigan Medicine’s feeding plan for infants born before 38 weeks or small for gestational age.
Breastfeeding and religious fasting
From the Australian Breastfeeding Association.
Bottle feeding
UNICEF UK fact sheets in 11 languages, plus NHS advice in Dari and Pashto.
Soothing common concerns
It is very normal for nursing to be challenging and frustrating at times.
Produced with support from the Europäisches Institut für Stillen und Laktation.
Troubleshooting challenges
What to do if you encounter some of the normal challenges, and tips to help avoid them.
Produced with support from the Europäisches Institut für Stillen und Laktation.
Find support
We are working on multilingual information about pumping, milk storage, formula feeding and supplemental feeding methods (e.g. cup or spoon), as well as gender-affirming and body/chestfeeding resources.