There are so many things you can do to help support a mummy who’s decided to breastfeed. We’ve popped together a few ideas for partners, family members and friends to help and encourage breastfeeding Mamas!

Breastfeeding is a lovely way for mums to bond with their baby. The act itself triggers the release of oxytocin – the love hormone, which gives mums a natural boost. The Department of Health advises mums to breastfeed exclusively for six months, and carry on breastfeeding when their baby starts weaning. During this time it’s important for mummies to feel supported and confident in their decision to breastfeed their baby.

Here are a few ways you can help:

Be helpful with household chores.
Ensure mum has everything she needs while she’s feeding – ask if there’s anything she needs. A drink? A snack? A pillow?
Remind mum of how great they are doing.
Help mum in getting breastfeeding support if she needs it.
If mum decides that breastfeeding isn’t for them- remember that she doesn’t have to and you’ll need to support them in making the decision to stop.
After a night feed – offer to settle the baby to sleep so mum can get some rest.
After baby has been fed – you can get involved to give mum a break.

Things to do with baby after a feed:

- - Wind them
  - Change nappies
  - Carry them in a sling
  - Hold them
  - Play with them

There are a lot of places you can turn to for advice and support. Here are just some of them:

Helplines

National Breastfeeding Helpline – 0300 100 0212
Association of Breastfeeding Mothers – 0300 330 5453
La Leche League – 0345 120 2918
National Childbirth Trust (NCT) – 0300 330 0700

You can find some great online support here:

Baby Café is a network of breastfeeding drop-ins. You can find your nearest drop-in on the website by entering your postcode.
Bliss is a special care baby charity that provides vital support and care to premature and sick babies across the UK.
The Breastfeeding Network provides breastfeeding support and information.
La Leche League offers mother-to-mother support with breastfeeding.
The Lactation Consultants of Great Britain can help you find a lactation consultant near you.
The Twins and Multiple Births Association (TAMBA) has information about feeding twins and triplets.
The National Childbirth Trust (NCT) is a charity that provides information and support on all aspects of pregnancy, birth and early parenthood, including breastfeeding.
The UK Association for Milk Banking has information about using donated breast milk if your baby is premature or ill, and how to donate breast milk.