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Breastfeeding: the first few days

In the first few days, you and your baby will be getting to know each other. It may take time for both of you to get the hang of breastfeeding.

This happens faster for some women than others. But nearly all women produce enough milk for their baby.

Preparing to breastfeed before the birth

It's good to find out as much as you can about breastfeeding before you have your baby. It may help you feel more confident when you start breastfeeding your baby.

Antenatal classes usually cover the most important aspects of breastfeeding, such as positioning and attachment, expressing, and how to tackle common breastfeeding problems.

Find antenatal classes near you.

You can find out about breastfeeding from your midwife, family and friends, and useful helplines and websites.

Find breastfeeding help and support.

There are lots of groups and drop-ins, some specially designed for pregnant women who want to know more about breastfeeding. You can find out more by asking your midwife, health visitor, local peer supporter or GP. Or visit your local Children's Centre.

Find a Sure Start Children's Centre on GOV.UK.

 

Your let-down reflex

Your baby's sucking causes muscles in your breasts to squeeze milk towards your nipples. This is called the let-down reflex.

Some women get a tingling feeling, which can be quite strong. Others feel nothing at all.

You'll see your baby respond when your milk lets down. Their quick sucks will change to deep rhythmic swallows as the milk begins to flow. Babies often pause after the initial quick sucks while they wait for more milk to be delivered.

Occasionally this let-down reflex can be so strong that your baby coughs and splutters. Your midwife, health visitor or breastfeeding supporter can help with this.

If your baby seems to be falling asleep before the deep swallowing stage of feeds, they may not be properly attached to the breast. Ask your midwife, health visitor or breastfeeding supporter to check your baby's positioning and attachment.

Sometimes you'll notice your milk letting down in response to your baby crying or when you have a warm bath or shower. This is normal.

How often should I feed my baby?

In the first week, your baby may want to feed very often. It could be every hour in the first few days.

Feed your baby as often as they want and for as long as they want. They'll begin to have fewer, but longer feeds after a few days.

As a very rough guide, your baby should feed at least 8 to 12 times, or more, every 24 hours during the first few weeks.

It's fine to feed your baby whenever they are hungry, when your breasts feel full or if you just want to have a cuddle.

It's not possible to overfeed a breastfed baby.

When your baby is hungry they may:

• get restless
• suck their fist or fingers
• make murmuring sounds
• turn their head and open their mouth (rooting)

It's best to try and feed your baby during these early feeding cues as a crying baby is difficult to feed.

Building up your milk supply

Around 2 to 4 days after birth you may notice that your breasts become fuller. This is often referred to as your milk "coming in".

Your milk will vary according to your baby's needs. Each time your baby feeds, your body knows to make more milk for the next feed. The amount of milk you make will increase or decrease depending on how often your baby feeds.

Feed your baby as often as they want and for as long as they want. This is called responsive feeding. In other words, responding to your baby's needs. It's also known as on-demand or baby-led feeding.

In the beginning, it can feel like you're doing nothing but feeding. But gradually you and your baby will get into a pattern and the amount of milk you produce will settle down.

It's important to breastfeed at night because this is when you produce more hormones (prolactin) to build up your milk supply.

In the early weeks, before you and your baby have become comfortable with breastfeeding, "topping up" with formula milk or giving your baby a dummy can lower your milk supply.

Speak to a midwife or health visitor if you are worried about breastfeeding or you think your baby is not getting enough milk.

They might suggest giving your baby some expressed breast milk along with breastfeeding.

Find out more about how to tell if your baby is getting enough breast milk.

Dealing with leaking breasts

Sometimes, breast milk may leak unexpectedly from your nipples.

Wearing breast pads will stop your clothes becoming wet with breast milk. Remember to change them frequently to prevent an infection.

Expressing some milk may also help. Only express enough to feel comfortable as you do not want to overstimulate your supply.

Find out about expressing and storing breast milk.

If your baby has not fed recently, you could offer them a feed as breastfeeding is also about you being comfortable.

Help and support for breastfeeding

• Find out more about positioning and attachment, including how to get comfortable and make sure your baby is properly attached.
• If you are having difficulties with breastfeeding, take a look at common breastfeeding problems.
• Ask a midwife or health visitor for help. They can also tell you about other breastfeeding support available near you.
• Search online for breastfeeding support in your area.
• Call the National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212 (9.30am to 9.30pm daily).

nhs.uk

Antenatal expressing is hand expressing your colostrum (the first milk you produce from approx 16 weeks of pregnancy) in your final few weeks of pregnancy (from 37 weeks gestation). Colostrum contains vital immunological properties which help to colonise the baby’s gut with healthy bacteria that protect against allergy and disease. Colostrum also contains the perfect balance of fats, proteins & many more micronutrients needed for human babies. It also contains a natural laxative to help baby pass their first tarry meconium stools.

Mothers who are having multiple births sometimes start this sooner, if giving birth earlier is more likely. When hand expressing in the antenatal period, please be guided by your midwife.

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Some babies will require investigations of blood sugar levels during the first few hours/days after delivery and an early feed within the first hour after birth is very important to help maintain baby’s blood sugar levels. Some babies may experience difficulties with maintaining their blood sugar levels and require supplementary feeds at this time.

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By expressing your colostrum this can reduce the need to give formula supplements.

These include: 

• Babies whose mothers had diabetes in pregnancy or who have a history of diabetes
• Babies whose mothers are taking beta blockers to control high blood pressure
• Babies born early before 37 weeks
• Babies who are small for gestational age (below 2^nd centile)
• Babies who have a bowel condition that requires surgery
• Babies who have a heart condition who may require surgery

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 What happens next?

After birth you will be supported to put your baby to your breast in skin to skin contact and baby can be offered a breastfeed. If your baby is not ready to have a good breastfeed at this time and you have already collected some colostrum in the antenatal period, this can be given to baby straight away, without delay, and help support baby’s blood sugar levels. You will be encouraged to continue to put baby to your breast at regular intervals and continue to hand express more colostrum should your baby require it.

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 How to hand express your colostrum

Step 1) Gently massage your breast with the pads of your fingers to stimulate the milk ducts
Step 2) Cup your breast and place your finger and thumb in a C shape about 2cm away from the base of your nipple.  With finger and thumb gently press backwards & compress this area.
Step 3) Once the milk comes forward, release the pressure keeping your fingers there and building up a rhythm. (Avoid sliding your fingers down the breast). Keep repeating this action

Collect this using a 1ml feeding syringe, which you can get from your midwife or from the Infant Feeding Team and Liverpool Women's Hospital. 

Breastfeeding is a skill that takes time to get the hang of. Lots of mums wonder if their baby's feeding well and getting enough - especially in the first few days. But once you've mastered it, you'll probably find it's the easiest and most satisfying way to feed your baby.

Apart from the fact that breast milk is tailor-made for your baby, contains vitamins and minerals and is always available, it also offers protection from certain infections and helps improve your baby's long-term health. Breastfeeding reduces the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome), childhood diabetes and leukaemia. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of your baby's life.

We're here to provide lots of helpful information and advice on breastfeeding. If you have any breastfeeding worries or concerns, the best thing to do is speak to your midwife or health visitor, or join a local breastfeeding support group.

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How to breastfeed

Breastfeeding takes practice. It takes time to work out which positions feel best – try them all out to see which feels best.

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Latching on

Latching on is how your baby attaches to your breast to feed. Lots of people assume that this comes naturally, but in reality it's more of a skill that you and your baby need to learn together. Good attachment also helps prevent sore and cracked nipples so it's important to get it right.

If possible, try to feed your baby when you are both relaxed and comfortable. Your baby will let you know they are hungry by doing things like:

• sucking their fists
• licking their lips
• wriggling and opening their mouths, as if they're searching for your breast

Encourage your baby to feed fully from each breast, this will help them get the fattier milk that comes towards the end of the feed.

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Step-by-step guide to latching on

This guide shows you how to latch your baby onto your breast:

1. Hold your baby's whole body close with their nose level with your nipple.

2. Let your baby's head tip back a little so that their top lip can brush against your nipple. This should help your baby to make a wide, open mouth.

3. When your baby's mouth opens wide, their chin should be able to touch your breast first, with their head tipped back so that their tongue can reach as much breast as possible.

4. With your baby's chin firmly touching your breast and their nose clear, their mouth should be wide open. You should see much more of the darker nipple skin above your baby's top lip than below their bottom lip. Your baby's cheeks will look full and rounded as they feed.

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Latching on video

This animated video shows you how to get a good latch with your baby:

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Frequency of feeds

Your newborn will want to breastfeed frequently throughout the day and night. It might seem as though you're feeding them all the time, but this is totally normal. As they get better (and more efficient) at feeding, they'll need to do it less often. Let your baby guide you as to how often and how long they should feed.

Do not worry about feeding your baby too often – it's impossible to breastfeed your baby too much. Newborns tend to breastfeed at least 8 times a day (24 hours) for the first few weeks. And your baby may want to feed more and for longer at night – that's because this is when you produce more prolactin (the hormone that produces milk).

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Cluster feeding

Cluster feeding usually happens during the first 3 to 4 months. It's when your baby wants to feed even more frequently, sometimes constantly, over a period of time. It's very normal and nothing to be concerned about. Your baby may want to cluster feed during the day or night, or a bit of both. Your baby may cluster feed for a few days when they're going through a growth spurt, but once your supply catches up with demand, things should be back to normal.

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Breastfeeding and COVID-19

 

The main risk of feeding your baby if you have coronavirus is the close contact between you and your baby. You should discuss the risks and benefits with your family and your maternity team.

If you think you have coronavirus, wash your hands for at least 20 seconds before touching your baby. Try to avoid coughing or sneezing on them while they feed. If you’re feeling unwell, make sure you do not fall asleep holding your baby.

There is currently no evidence that coronavirus can be passed on in breast milk. The benefits of breastfeeding outweigh the risks relating to breastfeeding when you have coronavirus.

-NHS.uk

Breastfeeding positions

Before you breastfeed your baby, have a drink beside you – something thirst quenching like a big glass of water. There are a few different breastfeeding positions you can try, these are 3 of the most popular:

Cradle hold

This is the probably the most popular breastfeeding position. However, if you've had a caesarean, this may be uncomfortable as your baby lies across your tummy near the scar (try lying on your side or the rugby hold instead). For the cradle hold, sit in a comfy chair with arm rests, or a bed with cushions or pillows around you.

1. Lie your baby across your lap, facing you.

2. Place your baby's head on your forearm – nose towards your nipple. Your hand should support the length of their body.

3. Place your baby's lower arm under yours.

4. Check to make sure your baby's ear, shoulder and hip are in a straight line.

Here is a top tip…

If you're sitting on a chair, rest your feet on a stool or small table – this will stop you from leaning forward which can make your back ache.

Lying on your side

This is a good position if you've had a caesarean or difficult delivery, or if you're breastfeeding in the middle of the night.

1. Start by getting comfy lying on your side. Your baby lies facing you, so you are tummy to tummy. Check to make sure your baby's ear, shoulder and hip are in a straight line – not twisted.

2. Put some cushions or pillows behind you for support. A rolled up baby blanket placed behind your baby will help support them - remember to remove it after you have finished feeding. If you've got a pillow under your head, make sure it's not too close to your baby's head or face.

3. Tuck the arm you're lying on under your head or pillow (ensuring your baby's position isn't altered by the pillow) and use your free arm to support and guide your baby's head to your breast.

Laid-back nursing

Laid-back breastfeeding, also known as "biological nursing", is when you lie back in a comfortable semi-reclined position on a comfy sofa or bed. If you have had a caesarean section (c-section), your baby can lie across you and away from your incision.

1. Lean back (but not flat) on a sofa or bed.

2. Prop yourself up with cushions or pillows so your back, shoulders and neck feel supported.

3. When you are comfortable, place your baby on your front. Their tummy should be resting on your tummy – but if this is uncomfortable, lie them to one side.

4. Make sure you are upright enough to look into your baby's eyes

5. While supporting your baby, gently guide your baby to your nipple. For more information, have a look at this video on laid back nursing..

Rugby hold (or the ‘clutch’)

The rugby hold is a good position for twins as you can feed them at the same time, as well as caesarean babies as there's no pressure on the tummy and scar area.

1. Sit in a chair with a cushion or pillow along your side.

2. Position your baby at your side (the side you want to feed from), under your arm, with their hips close to your hips.

3. Your baby's nose should be level with your nipple.

4. Support your baby's neck with the palm of your hand.

5. Gently guide them to your nipple.

NHS.uk

There may be times when breastfeeding is challenging. Never ignore any issues you may have – talk to your health visitor, midwife, GP or breastfeeding specialist as soon as possible, they will be able to help you sort it out quickly.

Here are some common breastfeeding issues, and tips on what to do.

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Colic

Colic usually starts when a baby is a few weeks old – and stops when they're around 4 to 6 months of age.

If your otherwise healthy baby cries inconsolably for 3 or more hours a day, at least 3 days per week (and it's been happening for 3 weeks or more) – it could be caused by colic.

Symptoms of colic include:

• intense crying, lasting several hours
• clenched fists, arched back, knees being pulled up to tummy
• red or flushed face when crying
• inconsolable – nothing you do seems to make it better

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Constipation

Constipation makes it more difficult for your baby to have a poo. It's often caused by their diet and is easy to treat from home.

Symptoms of constipation

The symptoms of constipation in your baby can include:

• pooing fewer than 3 times in a week
• finding it difficult to poo, and poos that are larger than usual
• dry, hard, lumpy or pellet-like poos
• unusually smelly wind and poo
• your baby may be less hungry than usual
• their tummy might feel firm

Other signs of constipation can include your baby lacking energy and being a bit grizzly.

How often should my breastfed baby poo?

There's no 'normal' when it comes to how often babies poo – breastfed babies will sometimes go several days, or even a week without having a poo (this is more common in babies aged 6 weeks or older). You'll quickly get used to your baby's bowel movements, so you'll be able to tell what's normal for them.

If your baby is not opening his/her bowels in the first few days, speak to your midwife for advice and guidance on how to manage this going forward.

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Mastitis

Mastitis makes your breast tissue inflamed and painful. You might notice a lump around the sore area, sometimes the inflammation turns into an infection. Mastitis can make you feel achy and run down, with flu-like symptoms or a fever.

Symptoms

Usually, mastitis affects one of your breasts, but can sometimes affect both. Signs and symptoms of mastitis often develop quickly and can include:

• sore breasts that feel swollen, hot, painful to touch. You may also have red patches, but redness can be harder to see on brown and black skin
• a lump or hard area on your breast
• feeling tired, run down and feverish – you may have flu-like symptoms

What causes mastitis?

If you're breastfeeding, mastitis is usually caused when the milk in your breast builds up faster than it's being removed. This creates a blockage in your milk ducts (known as 'milk stasis') and can be brought on by:

• your baby not latching on properly
• missing feeds, or not feeding often enough
• feeding from one breast more often than the other
• an injury that damages a milk duct or gland

If you aren't breastfeeding, mastitis can be caused by infection. The infection could happen if your nipples are sore or cracked, or through a nipple piercing.

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Milk supply

Generally, the more your baby feeds, the more breast milk you'll produce. However, if you're worried that your baby is not getting enough milk, talk to your midwife, health visitor or a breastfeeding specialist as soon as possible. With their help and advice, you'll be able to identify any issues and work out the best way to resolve it.

Things that can affect your milk supply

Feeding by the clock

Let your baby guide you as to how often to feed, especially in the early days, rather than sticking to set times. This is known as 'feeding on demand' and will ensure you maintain a good milk supply.

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Baby reflux

If your baby brings up milk, or is sick during or after feeding, this is known as reflux. Reflux, also called posseting or spitting up, is quite common and your baby should grow out of it, usually by the time they are 12 months old.

What causes baby reflux?

The muscle at the bottom of the food pipe acts as a kind of door into the stomach – so when food or milk travels down, the muscle opens allowing the food into the stomach.

However, while this muscle is still developing in the first year, it can open when it shouldn't (usually when your baby's tummy is full) allowing some food and stomach acid to travel back up again. Acid in the stomach is normal and a necessary part of the digestion process – it helps break down food.

In most babies, reflux is nothing to worry about as long as they are healthy and gaining weight as expected.

Baby reflux symptoms

• Constant or sudden crying when feeding.
• Bringing up milk during or after feeds (regularly).
• Frequent ear infections.
• Lots of hiccups or coughing.
• Refusing, gagging, or choking during feeds.
• Poor weight gain.
• Waking up at night a lot.

• GORD

  When reflux becomes painful and it happens frequently, this is known as 'gastro-oesophageal reflux disease' (GORD). GORD is more serious than mild, everyday reflux. The strong stomach acid can irritate and make the food pipe sore and inflamed, which is painful for your baby and may result in them needing medication.

  The main signs and symptoms of GORD in your baby are:

  • spitting up frequently
  • abdominal pain
  • feeding difficulties
  • seeming unsettled and grizzly after a feed

  These symptoms can lead to your baby not gaining weight, or even losing weight.

  Silent reflux

  Silent reflux can be confusing as there are no obvious signs or clues (such as spitting up). It's when the food travels back up the food pipe – but it's swallowed rather than spat out so is harder to identify. But your baby may display similar symptoms to those of regular reflux.

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Sore nipples

When you first start breastfeeding, you may have sore or sensitive nipples. This is very common in the first week of breastfeeding, and is usually because your baby is not latching on (positioned or attached) properly. If you do have nipple pain, speak to your midwife, health visitor or breastfeeding specialist as soon as possible – breastfeeding should not be painful!

What causes sore nipples?

The most common cause of nipple pain is when your baby does not latch on properly. It's very important that you correct this as soon as possible – ask your midwife, health visitor or breastfeeding specialist for help, they can show you how your baby needs to be positioned when feeding. 

Whatever you do – do not stop breastfeeding! Breast milk is created on a supply and demand system, so the less you feed, the less you produce. If you are finding it really painful to breastfeed try expressing your breast milk to keep up the supply.

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Thrush

If you are breastfeeding and experiencing horrible sharp, shooting pains in both breasts, this could be caused by thrush. It can make breastfeeding very painful, but don't worry – it's easily treated.

What causes thrush?

Thrush is a fungal infection in the breasts. It's easily spread, and if you are breastfeeding, you and your baby can pass it back and forth to each other. The fungus (candida albicans) is a normal part of our bodies, we all carry it, but usually good bacteria keeps it under control. The perfect environment for thrush to grow and spread is somewhere warm and moist – breastfeeding creates this perfect environment.

Check your breastfeeding position

It's worth remembering that a thrush infection may not be the cause of nipple pain, it could be that your baby simply is not positioned (latching on) properly. If you think this could be the case, ask your health visitor or lactation specialist for guidance.

Stop thrush spreading

Thrush spreads easily (and can spread to other members of the family) so you'll need to be extra careful with hygiene.

Things you, and everyone else in your household should do:

• wash hands thoroughly, especially after nappy changes
• use separate towels
• wash and sterilise dummies, teats, and any toys your baby may put in their mouth
• change your breast pads often
• wash all towels, baby clothes, and bras (anything that comes into contact with the infected area) at a high temperature to kill off the fungus

Signs of thrush in breastfeeding mums

If you are breastfeeding and have the following symptoms, it may be thrush. Make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.

If you have thrush, you may experience the following symptoms:

• pain in your nipples (burning, sharp, shooting pains) that can last up to an hour after feeds
• sore, cracked nipples
• shiny, red or pink nipples
• itchy or flaky nipples

Signs of thrush in breastfed babies

• creamy, white spots on the tongue, gums, on the inside of the cheeks or roof of the mouth (if you gently try to wipe the spots with a clean cloth, they won't come off)
• there may be a white gloss on your baby's tongue or lips
• your baby might feed for shorter periods, or seem unsettled during and between feeds

If you think your baby has thrush, make an appointment with your GP as soon as possible. Read more about oral thrush in babies.

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Tongue-tie

Tongue-tie can make it harder for babies to breastfeed. It's when the strip of tissue, called the “frenulum” (attaching the tongue to the floor of the mouth) is shorter than normal. Tongue tie can prevent your baby from latching on properly – which can then lead to sore or cracked nipples.

Symptoms

Cases of tongue-tie can range from mild to severe. If severe, the tongue may be completely fused to the floor of the mouth. You may be able to see if your newborn or baby has tongue-tie by looking into their mouth when they're yawning or crying, although it's not always easy to spot.

Signs of tongue-tie in your baby might include:

• your baby's tongue does not lift or move from side-to-side
• their tongue may look heart-shaped when they stick it out
• difficulty breastfeeding or bottle feeding (and weight gain may be slow)
• frequent, long periods of feeding – but they seem unsettled and unsatisfied
• refusing to feed
• clicking noises when feeding

How does tongue-tie affect breastfeeding mums?

• Your milk supply may reduce, as your baby is not latching on and feeding well.
• You may have sore or cracked nipples, which can make breastfeeding painful.
• Poor latching on and ineffective feeding may lead to engorged breasts – which can then lead to mastitis.

Sometimes, babies with tongue-tie have no problems at all. They may still be able to latch on and feed well – so not every case of tongue-tie needs treatment.

If your baby does have tongue-tie, it will hopefully be picked up in the first routine check by your midwife. However, tongue-tie is not always easy to spot and may be discovered at a later stage (usually after feeding issues become apparent).

NHS.uk

Liverpool BAMBIs (babies and mums breastfeeding information and support) are a team of peer supporters who offer breastfeeding support and information to pregnant women, breastfeeding mums and their families. BAMBIs peer supporters are typically mothers who have breastfed their own babies and have received additional formal training in breastfeeding peer support.

The team follow Unicef and World Health Organisation guidelines, providing friendly and accessible mum-to-mum support. You can access a range of support from BAMBIs, including antenatal classes, one-to-one visits at Liverpool Women's Hospital or at home, breastfeeding groups, email/telephone support, and a Facebook group. 

Having skin-to-skin contact with your baby straight after giving birth will help to keep them warm and calm and steady their breathing. 

Skin-to-skin means holding your baby naked or dressed only in a nappy against your skin, usually under your top or under a blanket.

Skin-to-skin time can be a bonding experience for you and your baby. It's also a great time to have your first breastfeed. If you need any help, your midwife will support you with positioning and attachment.

Skin-to-skin contact is good at any time. It will help to comfort you and your baby over the first few days and weeks as you get to know each other. It also helps your baby attach to your breast using their natural crawling and latching-on reflexes.

You'll still be able to bond with and breastfeed your baby if skin-to-skin contact is delayed for some reason, for example if your baby needs to spend some time in special care.

If necessary, your midwife will show you how to express your breast milk until your baby is ready to breastfeed. They can also help you have skin-to-skin contact with your baby as soon as it's possible.

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Skin-to-skin after a caesarean

If your baby is delivered by caesarean, you should still be able to have skin-to-skin contact with your baby straight after delivery.

-nhs.uk

If you've decided to bottle feed, you may be worried about what formula to buy, what equipment you'll need and how to get the hang of feeding your baby when everything is so new.

We're here to provide lots of helpful information and advice on bottle feeding. If you have any worries or concerns, the best thing to do is speak to your midwife or health visitor.

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How to make up a feed

If you're formula feeding your baby, we have help on what you need to buy, how much, and what type of formula is right for your baby - and how to make sure everything is safe and clean.

Things you need for formula feeding

When you are bottle feeding, it's very important that you clean and sterilise all the equipment to prevent your baby from getting infections and stomach upsets.

You will need the following items:

1. Bottles with teats and bottle caps.

2. Brushes to clean the bottles and teats.

3. Sterilising equipment (such as a cold-water steriliser, microwave or steam steriliser).

4. Formula milk powder or ready-to-feed liquid formula.

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Types of bottles and teats

The types of bottles and teats you buy will depend on your baby and the stage they're at. Generally, newborns feed little and often and many parents prefer to use smaller bottles at first and then move on to larger bottles as their baby grows, but this really does depend on your baby.

Teats come in 2 basic shapes – rounded and "natural" (that mimic a nipple). Try both and see which one your baby prefers!

Teats have different flow rates – fast, medium and slow. It is generally recommended to use a slower flow for newborn babies as it can prevent too much milk going into their mouth too quickly.

As they get used to bottle feeding and as they get bigger, you can move to a faster-flowing teat. But again, this should be led by your baby – there is no right or wrong.

If you have any questions about types of bottles and teats, talk to your health visitor or midwife.

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Types of formula

Use first infant formula during the first year. It does not matter which brand you choose as they are all very similar. You can always talk to your midwife or health visitor if you have any concerns.

How long do I need to use first infant formula?

Stick to first infant formula throughout the first year. Breastmilk or formula milk should be your baby's main drink until they are 12 months old. Pasteurised cows' milk is not a suitable drink until your baby is 12 months old, but it can be used in cooking or mixed with food from 6 months of age.

When your baby is 12 months old, they will get more of their energy, vitamins, and minerals from solid foods, and they can have full fat cows' milk as their main milk drink. There is no need to use follow-on formula.

NHS.uk

 The following instructions apply to all feeding equipment you use for your baby, whether you are using expressed breastmilk or first infant formula.

Before sterilising your bottle feeding equipment, make sure you:

1. Wash your hands well with soap and water.

2. Clean the work surfaces with hot, soapy water.

3. Check that the bottle and teat are not damaged, then clean the bottle and teat in hot, soapy water using a clean bottle brush – a dishwasher will will not sterilise it.

4. Rinse all your equipment in clean, cold running water before sterilising.

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Different ways of sterilising:

Steam sterilising – electric steriliser or microwave

1. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Make sure the openings of the bottles and teats are facing down in the steriliser.

Cold water sterilising

1. Follow the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Change the sterilising solution every 24 hours.
3. Leave feeding equipment in the sterilising solution for at least 30 minutes.
4. Make sure that there is no air trapped in the bottles or teats when putting them in the sterilising solution.
5. Keep all the equipment under the solution with the floating submerger.

Sterilising by boiling

1. Never leave hot pans and liquids unattended.
2. Make sure that whatever you sterilise in it is safe to boil.
3. Boil the feeding equipment in water for at least 10 minutes, making sure that all items stay under the surface of the water. You may need to use a small plate to keep bottles in the water.
4. Remember that teats tend to get damaged faster with this method.

NHS.uk

There may be times when feeding your baby is challenging. Never ignore any issues you may have – talk to your health visitor, midwife or GP if you have any concerns about bottle feeding.

Here are some common feeding issues, and tips on what to do.

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Colic and bottle feeding

Colic can be exhausting and extremely upsetting, but usually stops on its own by the time your baby is around 6 months old. Colic can affect babies regardless of whether they are breast or bottle fed.

If your otherwise healthy baby cries inconsolably for 3 or more hours a day, at least 3 days per week (and it has been happening for at least a week) – it could be caused by colic.

Symptoms of colic include:

• intense crying, lasting several hours
• clenched fists, arched back, knees being pulled up to tummy
• red or flushed face when crying
• inconsolable – nothing you do seems to make it better

here are other reasons your baby may be crying, it's a good idea to check if they:

• are hungry
• have a dirty or wet nappy
• have wind
• are too hot or too cold
• are bored or over stimulated

If your baby tends to cry during or after feeds, it's worth checking whether this could be reflux. Our guide to reflux in bottle-fed babies has information on the signs and symptoms.

What causes colic?

There is no known reason why some babies get colic - some doctors think it's a type of stomach cramp. But it may happen because babies find it harder to digest food when they are really young.

Constant crying could also be due to food allergies, such as a cows' milk allergy. If you think this is the case, talk to your GP before making any changes to your baby's diet.

Soothing a bottle-fed colicky baby

Sadly, there is no actual cure for baby colic, only methods to provide relief and soothe them. These are some of the tried and tested techniques that other parents use to relieve colic symptoms in bottle-fed babies:

Burping

Burp (or wind) your baby during and after every bottle feed – have a look at our guide to burping your baby for techniques.

Sit your baby up

When bottle feeding, sit your baby up as straight as possible - this helps stop them swallowing too much air. Try to make sure the milk fills the teat and there are no air pockets – you could try using an anti-colic bottle to see if that helps.

Try different teats

Some parents use a fast-flow teat – it may help your baby swallow less air.

Avoid changing formula

Avoid changing the formula you are using, unless you have been advised to by your doctor or health visitor.

If you are mixed feeding (combining breast and bottle feeding) have a look at our advice on colic in breastfed babies.

Other ways to soothe your baby

Hold them

During bouts of crying, hold your baby to your chest so they can feel and hear your heartbeat.

Rock your baby

Sometimes the swaying motion of rocking your baby in your arms can help.

Warm bath and a massage

A warm bath can be soothing, followed by a gentle tummy massage (with gentle, circular strokes on the tummy).

Create a calming atmosphere

Babies can become overstimulated with lots of noise and activity around them. Try to quieten your surroundings, switch the TV off, dim the lights, and try to take some deep breaths yourself.

If you can, try to talk to other new mums. Talking about what you are going through with someone else can really help. If you feel calmer, it will be easier to soothe your baby.

Help and support

As a parent of a colicky baby, it can be exhausting and extremely upsetting – but it will stop. It's important to remember that you need to be looked after too – if possible, ask family and friends for their support so you can take regular rest breaks.

If you are finding it difficult to cope, there is support available:

Cry-sis offer support and advice: 0845 122 8669 (9am to 10pm, 7 days a week)

The NCT support line offers practical and emotional support with feeding your baby: 0300 330 0700

Have a look at the NHS website for advice on soothing a crying baby

Watch this NCT video on coping with crying

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Constipation and bottle feeding

Constipation makes it more difficult for your baby to have a poo. It's often caused by their diet, so can happen when using formula milk or if you have started weaning (introducing your baby to solid foods). It's easy to treat from home.

How can I tell if my baby is constipated?

The symptoms of constipation in your baby can include:

• pooing fewer than 3 times in a week
• finding it difficult to poo, and poos that are larger than usual
• dry, hard, lumpy or pellet-like poos
• unusually smelly wind and poo
• your baby may be less hungry than usual
• their tummy might feel firm

How often should formula-fed babies poo?

Whilst it might take time to get used to your baby's bowel movements, generally if your baby is under 8 weeks old and has not done a poo for 2 to 3 days, talk to your midwife, health visitor or GP. At this stage, your baby should be gaining weight and have plenty of wet and dirty nappies.

Too much formula (adding more milk powder than recommended on the packet) can make your baby constipated and leave them dehydrated because the formula is too thick.

Possible causes of constipation

Change in diet

It's quite common for your baby to become constipated when they start having first infant formula (which is harder to digest than breast milk) or eating processed foods. This is because their body is learning how to cope with digesting new things. When using formula, always use the amount of powder recommended on the packaging. Using too much powder can make your baby constipated and may cause dehydration.

Dehydration

Constipation can be caused by a lack of fluids. There are various reasons why your baby may not be getting enough fluids – they may be teething and finding it uncomfortable, it could be down to illness (such as a cold, a throat or ear infection), or if they are older, not drinking enough fluids with their food. Lack of fluids can make your baby's poo harder and more difficult to push out.

Lack of fibre

In older babies, it can also be caused by not getting enough fibre (such as fruit, vegetables and cereals) in their diet. For advice on which foods to include in your child's diet, have a look at our Guide to what to feed your baby.

Tips on treating constipation

Here are some tips on helping relieve constipation at home:

• lie your baby down and gently move their legs like they're riding a bicycle – this can help get things moving.
• if your baby is happy lying down, give them a gentle tummy massage
• if your baby is bottle fed try giving them extra water between some feeds
• if your baby is on solids, make sure they are getting enough fibre - apples, pears and prunes are particularly good for constipation

It may take a few days to get things moving again, but if things do not improve, speak to your health visitor or GP. Your GP may prescribe a laxative or want to double check that it's not being caused by any underlying medical conditions.

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COVID-19 and bottle feeding

If you have suspected, or confirmed COVID-19, make sure you wash your hands (for at least 20 seconds) before touching your baby. When you are feeding your baby - try to avoid coughing or sneezing on them.

Expressing breast milk

If you're expressing your breast milk, always wash your hands before handling your breast pump and bottles. Have a look at the Start for Life guide to expressing breast milk.

Sterilising equipment

If your baby is having formula or expressed milk, make sure you sterilise the equipment carefully before each use. You should not share bottles or a breast pump with anyone else. Have a look at the NHS guide to sterilising bottles.

Making up formula feeds

When making formula feeds, carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions. Use the right amount of formula and water – ensuring the water is hot enough (at least 70C) to kill any germs in the powder. Have a look at the NHS step by step guide to making up formula.

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Reflux and bottle feeding

When your baby brings up milk, or is sick during or after feeding, this is known as reflux. Reflux, also referred to as posseting or spitting up, is quite common and babies usually grow out of it by the age of 1.

What is baby reflux?

The muscle at the bottom of the food pipe (oesophagus) acts as a kind of door into the stomach – so when food or milk travels down, the muscle opens allowing the food into the stomach.

However, while this muscle is still developing in the first year, it can open when it should not (usually when your baby's tummy is full) allowing some food and stomach acid to travel back up again. Acid in the stomach is a normal part of the digestion process – it helps break down food.

In most babies, reflux is nothing to worry about, as long as they are healthy and gaining weight as expected.

Did you know?

Bottle feeding your baby in an upright position can help reduce the symptoms of reflux.

What are baby reflux symptoms?

• constant or sudden crying when feeding
• bringing up milk during or after feeds (regularly)
• frequent ear infections
• lots of hiccups or coughing
• refusing, gagging, or choking during feeds
• poor weight gain
• waking at night a lot

GORD

When reflux becomes painful and happens frequently, this is known as ”gastro-oesophageal reflux disease” (GORD). GORD is more serious than mild, everyday reflux. The strong stomach acid can irritate and make the food pipe sore and inflamed, which is painful for your baby and may result in them needing medication.

The main signs and symptoms of GORD in your baby are:

• spitting up frequently
• tummy (abdominal) pain
• feeding difficulties
• seeming unsettled and grizzly after a feed

These symptoms can lead to your baby not gaining weight, or even losing weight.

Silent reflux

Silent reflux can be confusing as there are no obvious signs or clues (such as spitting up). It's when the food travels back up the food pipe – but it's swallowed rather than spat out so is harder to identify. But your baby may display similar symptoms to those of regular reflux.

Here is a top tip…

If you can, try to talk to other new mums. Talking about what you are going through with someone else can really help. If you feel calmer, it will be easier to soothe your baby.

Bottle feeding tips for babies with reflux

You can help your baby's reflux by:

• feeding little and often, smaller feeds stop their tummy getting too full
• burping your baby frequently during feeds – have a look at our Guide to burping your baby for techniques
• try to keep your baby upright, for at least an hour, after feeding - this should help keep the milk down

If you are using formula, your GP or health visitor may advise you to use a thicker formula (that's less likely to be brought up), or one that does not contain cows' milk if your baby is allergic to it. If the thickening powder does not help, your GP may recommend medicines that stop your baby's tummy producing as much acid.

If you are mixed feeding (combining breastmilk and formula feeds), have a look at our advice on breastfeeding and reflux.

When to seek medical advice

If your baby has difficulty feeding or refuses to feed, keeps vomiting during or after feeding, talk to your pharmacist, GP, or health visitor. They will be able to give you practical advice on how to ease the symptoms and manage it – they may need to rule out other causes such as an intolerance to cows' milk or allergies.

It might be helpful to keep a record of when your baby feeds, with details of how often and how much your baby brings the food back up, and how often your baby cries or seems distressed. This will help your health visitor or GP decide if your baby needs treatment.

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Tongue-tie

Tongue-tie can sometimes make it harder for babies to feed. It can affect both bottle-fed and breastfed babies. It's when the strip of tissue, called the ”frenulum” (attaching the tongue to the floor of the mouth) is shorter than normal.

How to tell if your baby is tongue-tied

Cases of tongue-tie can range from mild to severe. If severe, the tongue may be completely fused to the floor of the mouth. You may be able to see if your newborn or baby has tongue-tie by looking into their mouth when they are yawning or crying, although it's not always easy to spot.

If your baby does have tongue-tie, it will hopefully be picked up in the first routine check by your midwife. However, tongue-tie is not always easy to spot and may be discovered at a later stage (usually after feeding issues become apparent).

Some of the physical signs of tongue-tie:

• your baby's tongue does not lift or move from side-to-side
• they cannot stick their tongue out fully
• their tongue may look heart-shaped when they stick it out

What to look out for when feeding:

• difficulty feeding
• weight gain may be slow
• frequent, long periods of feeding – but they seem unsettled and unsatisfied
• pushing the bottle teat out
• dribbling a lot during feeding
• can only manage a teat with a very slow flow
• chokes on feeds, even when you are feeding slowly

Sometimes, babies with tongue-tie have no problems at all. They may still be able to feed well, not every case of tongue-tie needs treatment.

Did you know?

Not every baby with tongue-tie needs to be treated – they may just grow out of it.

Ways of treating tongue-tie

If treatment is necessary, your baby will have a straightforward procedure called a ”frenulotomy”. This is carried out by specially trained doctors, nurses or midwives, and is very quick (it takes a few seconds). Generally, no anaesthetic is used.

The surgery simply involves snipping the short, tight piece of skin connecting the underside of the tongue to the floor of the mouth. As soon as it's done, you can feed your baby (which helps to heal any bleeding).

If you are mixed feeding (combining bottle and breastfeeding) read our guide to tongue-tie in breastfed babies.

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More help and support

Read more about tongue-tie on the NHS website. Read more about tongue-tie on the NHS website

NHS.uk

Mixed feeding is when you combine breastfeeding with bottle feeding (either using expressed breast milk or infant formula).

If possible, it's best to make sure that you and your baby get the hang of breastfeeding before you start mixed feeding. Breastfeeding is a skill that you and your baby need to work at – it can take several weeks to feel happy and confident with it.

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Introduction to mixed feeding

Some parents decide to start mixed feeding about 6 to 8 weeks after having a baby, but it's different for everyone. If you choose to combine breast and bottle feeds from birth, it may make breastfeeding more difficult as your body thinks it needs to produce less milk.

There are various reasons to consider combining breast and bottle feeding, such as you:

• want to share the feeding responsibility with your partner or family members – you could do this by introducing one or more bottle feeds a day
• are mainly breastfeeding, but also want to offer expressed milk or formula – you might want to combine breastfeeding with formula or expressed bottle feeds if your baby is not getting enough milk
• are bottle feeding, but want to start breastfeeding – you want the convenience and health benefits of breastfeeding
• are returning to work or study and need to provide bottle feeds while you are away – you need to introduce bottle feeding to your baby
• may be struggling with breastfeeding and need to give your baby some formula – you want to use formula for a short time while you get the hang of breastfeeding

Whatever your reasons for mixed feeding, if you can, we recommend that you breastfeed exclusively for 6 to 8 weeks after the birth – it can often take this long to get the hang of breastfeeding. This will help stimulate your milk production before you introduce bottle feeding (whether that’s formula or expressed breast milk).

There are different ways of mixed feeding:

• combining breastfeeding and expressing breast milk
• bottle feeding expressed breast milk
• combining breastfeeding, expressing breast milk and formula feeds
• combining breastfeeding and formula feeds
• bottle feeding expressed breast milk and formula milk

Choosing which method is best for you

There are different things to think about with each method. If you're mixing breast and bottle feeding, you may find that your baby struggles with one of the methods, depending on how and when you introduce them.

Expressing exclusively

If your baby is not feeding properly, expressing can be a good way to make sure they get the benefits of breast milk.

If you're expressing breast milk, you are less likely to have problems with engorgement (breasts becoming uncomfortably full) and mastitis. 

Find more information about expressing.

Mixing breastfeeding and expressing

If you mix breastfeeding with bottle feeding expressed milk, your baby will benefit from having breastmilk at every feed. You will also be able to use expressed milk later so your partner or family members can share the feeds. See our guide to expressing for more on how to store expressed breast milk.

You are also less likely to have problems with becoming engorged and getting mastitis. However, some mums find expressing tricky and it can be tiring.

Mixing breastfeeding and formula feeding

If you decide to mix formula feeding with breastfeeding you might find that your body does not produce enough milk – especially if you introduce this method too quickly. See mixed feeding challenges to find out more.

However, some mums prefer this method because they are reassured that their baby is getting enough to eat whilst still benefitting from having breastmilk.

Mixing expressing and formula feeding

If you decide to mix bottle feeding expressed breast milk along with infant formula, your baby will benefit from having breast milk and you can share the feeding with a partner or other family member.

Expressing can take time and effort to get the hang of at first and you will need to buy equipment such as sterilisers and bottles and pumps (if you decide not to hand express).

However, some mums prefer this method because they are reassured that their baby is getting enough to eat whilst still benefitting from having breastmilk.

Mixing breastfeeding, expressing and formula feeding

Some parents choose to combine breastfeeding, expressing and formula feeding. This means that your baby benefits from having breastmilk, you are more likely to produce enough milk because you're expressing between feeds and your partner or other family member can help out with feeds when you use formula.

However, it can be very complicated, time consuming and tiring to combine all 3 methods and you will have to buy equipment such as sterilisers, bottles and pumps (if you decide not to hand express).

Did you know?

If you have decided to cut down on breastfeeding, do this gradually to minimise the risk of mastitis.

Hints and tips when starting mixed feeding

If you have decided to combine breastfeeding and bottle feeding, here are some hints and tips that could help you:

• go slowly – it may take a while for your baby to get used to a change in feeding
• introduce the first bottle feed when your baby is calm and not hungry
• use a slow-flow teat to mimic the flow when breastfeeding
• express your milk regularly between bottle feeds to help maintain your milk supply – read about expressing your breast milk
• when bottle feeding, try to copy the positions you would use when breastfeeding – check out our guide to breastfeeding positions for more help

You may be worried that your baby is not getting enough breast milk and not quite reaching the targets in your red book (your child's personal health record), but remember all babies grow at their own rate and in most cases, they will catch up.

If you're worried about any aspect of breastfeeding or bottle feeding, talk to your GP, midwife or health visitor.

NHS.uk

Paced feeding is way of giving your baby more control over feeds. Babies usually take small amounts of milk and stop for a rest, and then take more. You can help them to "pace" their feeds so that it mimics the way they would breastfeed.

Start by touching the teat on your baby's top lip, inviting your baby to draw the teat into their mouth. Keep the bottle almost horizontal – just very slightly tipped to prevent the milk flowing too fast. Watch your baby for signs that they are finished or need a break, as this gives them time to feel full and avoid overfeeding.

Your baby might become upset when you take the teat away from their mouth. If this happens, try tilting the bottle down with the teat still in their mouth – this will slow down the milk flow, but still feel comforting to your baby.

Never force your baby to finish a feed as this will be distressing and can mean your baby is overfed.

nhs.uk

You do not need a feeding schedule. Health professionals recommend "responsive" or "on demand" feeding – this means following your baby's cues and feeding them when they are hungry.

Although most babies gradually settle into a feeding routine, they vary in how often they want to feed. Feed your baby when they show signs that they are hungry. Babies tend to feed little and often, so they may not finish their bottle. Never force your baby to finish the bottle – always be led by your baby.

Unused infant formula that has been kept at room temperature must be thrown away within 2 hours. Check out our guide to making up a feed to find out more.

After a while, you will get to know your baby's hunger signs. Your baby may:

• try to find something to suck – usually their hands or fingers
• move their eyes around
• "root around" or look for the teat of the bottle
• start wriggling and getting restless
• open and close their mouth

If you can spot these early signs before they start crying for food, your baby will be easier to feed. If your baby is upset, try soothing them before feeding – a cuddle and some skin-to-skin contact may help.

Babies cry for lots of different reasons. If they have been fed recently then hunger is unlikely to be the cause of their crying. The NHS website has lots of useful information on how to soothe a crying baby. You can also have a look at our guide on bottle feeding challenges which covers reflux and colic.

Feeding your baby when they are hungry, rather than following a schedule, can reduce the risk of overfeeding.

Alder Hey have produced this helpful guide to paced feeding.

nhs.uk

Burping your baby

Winding, or burping your baby, is an important part of feeding. When your baby swallows, air bubbles can become trapped in their tummy and cause a lot of discomfort. Some babies find it easy to burp, while others need a helping hand.

When should I burp my baby?

There are no rules on when you should burp your baby, some babies need burping during their feed, some after. Look for clues – if your baby seems uncomfortable while feeding, have a little burping break. If they seem fine while feeding, wait until they've finished. Your baby will let you know!

Did you know?

Your baby may bring some milk up while burping, so have a burp cloth or muslin square ready (this is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about).

What's the best position to burp my baby?

Support your baby's head and neck, make sure their tummy and back is nice and straight (not curled up), and rub or pat their back gently. You don't need to spend ages burping your baby, a couple of minutes should be enough.

There are a few ways to burp your baby. Try them all out and see which works best – or use a combination:

Over your shoulder

With your baby's chin resting on your shoulder, support the head and shoulder area with one hand, and gently rub and pat your baby's back. It might help to walk around as you are doing this.

Sitting on your lap

Sit your baby on your lap facing away from you. Place the palm of your hand flat against their chest and support their chin and jaw (don't put any pressure on the throat area). Lean your baby forwards slightly and with your free hand, gently rub or pat your baby's back.

Lying across your lap

Lie your baby across your lap face down. Supporting their chin (don't put any pressure on the throat area), use your free hand to gently rub or pat your baby's back.

NHS.uk

Mastitis

Mastitis is when your breast becomes swollen, hot and painful. 

It is most common in breastfeeding women and does not usually need medical treatment.

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Causes of mastitis

Mastitis is common in breastfeeding women as it can be caused by a build-up of milk.

Women who are not breastfeeding can also get mastitis, as can men. This can be caused by:

• smoking – toxins found in tobacco can damage breast tissue
• damage to the nipple, such as a piercing or skin condition such as eczema
• having a breast implant
• having a weakened immune system due to a health condition such as diabetes
• shaving or plucking hairs from around your nipples

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Check if you have mastitis

Mastitis usually only affects 1 breast, and symptoms often come on quickly. They include:

• a swollen area on your breast that may feel hot and painful to touch – the area may become red but this can be harder to see if you have black or brown skin
• a wedge-shaped breast lump or a hard area on your breast
• a burning pain in your breast that might be constant or only when you breastfeed
• nipple discharge, which may be white or contain streaks of blood

You may also get flu-like symptoms, such as aches, a high temperature, chills and tiredness.

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Things you can do to ease mastitis

Do

• if you are breastfeeding, continue to breastfeed your baby when they want and for as long as they want. You can also offer your baby a breastfeed if your breasts are uncomfortably full

• when breastfeeding make sure your baby is positioned and attached properly. Your midwife, health visitor or a breastfeeding specialist can advise you.

• a cloth soaked in warm water and applied to the breast (or a shower or bath) may improve milk flow

• breast pain may be soothed using a cold compress (for example a cloth soaked in cold water)

• rest and drink lots of fluids

• take paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce any pain or high temperature

• try gently stroking from the top of the breast towards your nipple – avoid squeezing or rubbing too hard as this could make the pain worse

Don’t

• do not wear tight-fitting clothing or bras until you feel better

• do not take aspirin

• do not express more milk than your baby needs

• do not stop breastfeeding suddenly –  find out how to stop breastfeeding

• do not apply oils, soaks or creams to your breast

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See a GP if:

• your symptoms do not get better 12 to 24 hours after treating it at home
• your symptoms do not get better 48 hours after taking antibiotics
• you get mastitis and you are not breastfeeding

Treatment for mastitis from a GP

A GP will usually prescribe antibiotics if you have mastitis and your symptoms are not getting better.

If you're breastfeeding a very small amount of the antibiotic may go into your breast milk. There is no risk to your baby, but it might make them irritable and restless.

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What to do if mastitis comes back

If you are breastfeeding and keep getting mastitis, it might be due to problems with positioning and attaching.

If you have any breastfeeding problems, it's important to ask for help from a midwife, health visitor or a breastfeeding specialist as soon as possible.

Information:

You can also call the National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212 (9.30am to 9.30pm, daily)

nhs.uk

Introducing your baby to solid foods, also referred to as weaning or complementary feeding, starts when your baby is around 6 months old. Your baby should be introduced to a varied diet, alongside their usual breast milk or first infant formula.

It can be confusing knowing when and how to start introducing solid foods. We’re here to guide you through the weaning journey and explain what it all means. We’ve got expert NHS advice, helpful videos, tips from other parents, and lots of simple, healthy weaning recipe and meal ideas…

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Getting ready

By the time your baby is around 6 months old, they need more than breast milk or first infant formula to meet their needs. At this stage, they need solid foods as well – not as a replacement, but alongside their usual breast milk or first infant formula (which is why it's also known as "complementary feeding"). Weaning teaches your baby how to move solid food around their mouth, chew, and swallow solid foods.

How much will they eat?

How much your baby eats depends on their appetite, so let your baby guide you on how much food they need – never force them to eat. In the same way you follow your baby’s cues when offering them breast or bottle feeds, be responsive to your baby when giving them solid foods, and learn to recognise when they're hungry and when they've had enough.

Is there a good time of day?

The best time of day is the one that suits you both, when you don’t feel rushed and your baby is not too tired. Don’t forget eating is a whole new skill - your baby may take to it like a duck to water, or it might take them a while! Allow plenty of time, go at your baby’s pace and stop when they show signs that they’ve had enough.

Fussy eater?

It may take 10 tries or more for your baby to get used to new foods, flavours and textures. There will be days when they eat more, some when they eat less, and then days when they reject everything. Don’t worry – this is perfectly normal. Be patient and keep offering a variety of foods, even the ones they don’t seem to like, and let them get used to it in their own time.

What you need – here are some suggestions to get you started

• High chair – your baby needs to be sitting safely and strapped in, in an upright position (so they can swallow properly)
• First cup – encourage your baby to sip water from a cup with their meals (instead of a bottle). Open cups or free-flow cups (without a valve) help your baby learn to sip and is better for their teeth
• Spoons – soft weaning spoons, usually made of rubber or plastic, are easier on your baby’s gums
• Plastic bowls – ideally the ones with a suction base, otherwise they’re likely to end up on the floor!
• Ice cube trays – very useful for batch cooking and freezing small portions
• Bibs – easy to clean plastic or pelican bibs are best in the beginning
• Messy mat – or even newspaper under the high chair, handy for messy eaters!

NHS.uk

 

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From around 6 months

To start with, your baby only needs a small amount of solid food, once a day, at a time that suits you both.

You can start weaning with single vegetables and fruits – try blended, mashed, or soft cooked sticks of parsnip, broccoli, potato, yam, sweet potato, carrot, apple or pear. You could also try baby rice mixed with your baby's usual milk. Make sure any cooked food has cooled right down before offering it to your baby.

It's important to introduce foods that can trigger allergic reactions one at a time, in very small amounts, so that you can spot any reaction. These foods can be introduced from around 6 months as part of your baby's diet, just like any other foods:

• cows’ milk (in cooking or mixed with food)
• eggs (eggs without a red lion stamp should not be eaten raw or lightly cooked)
• foods that contain gluten, including wheat, barley and rye
• nuts and peanuts (serve them crushed or ground)
• seeds (serve them crushed or ground)
• soya
• shellfish (don't serve raw or lightly cooked)
• fish

Once introduced and if tolerated, keep offering those foods as part of your baby’s usual diet (to minimise the risk of allergy). Read more about food allergies and what signs to look out for.

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7 - 9 months

By now, your baby will have had some good practice learning how to eat! Eat together as much as possible – they learn a lot from watching you.

Your baby will gradually move towards eating 3 meals a day (breakfast, lunch and tea). Offering a wide variety of different foods is important to ensure they get enough energy and nutrients (such as iron). Babies don't need salt or sugar added to their food (or cooking water) – salty food isn't good for their kidneys and sugar can cause tooth decay.

Remember, it may take 10 tries or even more for your baby to get used to new foods, flavours and textures. There'll be days when they eat more, some when they eat less, and then days when they reject everything! Don't worry – this is perfectly normal. Just be patient, keep offering a variety of foods, even the ones they don't seem to like, and let them get used to it in their own time.

Babies under 12 months don't need snacks, if you think your baby is hungry in between meals, offer extra milk feeds instead.

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10 - 12 months

Your baby should now be used to having 3 meals a day – breakfast, lunch and tea – in addition to their milk feeds.

Lunch and tea can include a main course and a pudding (such as fruit or unsweetened yoghurt). Try to eat together as much as possible, babies learn from watching you eat.

Remember, your baby does not need salt or sugar added to their food or cooking water. Babies shouldn't eat salt as it isn't good for their kidneys and sugar can cause tooth decay.

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12 months+

Now your toddler is 12 months old, they should be having 3 meals a day. They may also need 2 healthy weaning snacks in between (for example fruit, vegetable sticks, toast, bread or plain yoghurt).

Remember, they don't need salt or sugar added to their food or cooking water. Children shouldn't eat salty foods as it isn't good for their kidneys and sugar can cause tooth decay.

NHS.uk

It can be alarming seeing your child gag. But gagging is normal and is a part of learning how much food they can chew and swallow.

Whereas choking is silent (because the food has blocked the airway), gagging is noisy. Your child may stick their tongue out while gagging and their eyes may water.

NHS.uk