Newborn Baby Feeding Options
At Birth & Baby Reality we recognise that the decision regarding how to feed your newborn baby can be a highly emotive subject. Choosing whether to breastfeed or formula feed your newborn baby is one of the first decisions expectant parents will make. Feeding your newborn baby can be very rewarding and a time to enjoy a real feeling of closeness. Babies get far more than just nutrition from a feed - they enjoy the cuddle, the comfort and the satisfaction of a full tummy. Just as our antenatal classes will prepare you for the reality of birth, so our newborn feeding sessions will be open to discuss all of the options available to you.
Warwick Hospital Maternity Unit is actively working towards WHO and UNICEF’s global initiative for achieving Baby Friendly status. Maternity units across the country are encouraged by UNICEF to increase breast feeding rates however midwives are working really hard to explain to ALL women that there is NO pressure to feed one way or the other. So whether you CHOOSE to breast or formula feed your midwife will support YOUR CHOICE. Click here for UNICEF guidelines.
Birth and Baby Reality support the hospitals initiative and support ALL women with their choice of feeding their newborn baby. Many mothers need help and support when establishing baby feeding, breast or bottle, and access to good information to overcome problems. We will signpost you to networks and groups locally that will be able to offer you postnatal support. Our weekly coffee mornings also give mums the opportunity to talk to other mums, the best source of free information and support!
Our experience has told us that sometimes mums have mixed feelings around feeding their newborn baby. Our newborn feeding options session is the opportunity to discuss all of the options for feeding your newborn baby, enabling you to make a decision that is appropriate for you and your family.
Our sessions discuss many issues including;
Breast feeding
Is ‘breast the best’ to feed your newborn baby?
How does breast milk help you and your baby?
How do you know your baby is getting enough milk?
When does your milk come in?
What problems may arise when establishing breast feeding?
Do you need a routine?
How often will a newborn baby feed?
How do you get the baby latched onto the breast?
What can my partner do to help?
How will you feel about feeding in public?
Expressing breast milk?
What can you eat or not eat?
Is it convenient and flexible?
Bottle feeding
Breastfeeding is considered the best nutritional option for babies by the major medical organizations, but it's not right for every mother. The decision to breast feed or bottle feed your baby is a very personal one. Breastfeeding may not be possible or preferable for all women.
Our sessions discuss many issues including;
Is formula feeding convenient and flexible?
Are there challenges when formula feeding?
Does formula provide the same nutrition as breast milk?
Do you need a routine?
