Breastfeeding gives your baby the best start in life, providing all the essential nutrients they need for the first 6 months, while also supporting their growth, development and wellbeing.
Our maternity caregivers are here to offer expert care and guidance throughout your breastfeeding journey, both during your hospital stay and once you are home with your baby.
Breastfeeding is a skill that develops over time for both mother and baby. Whatever your feeding choices, we are here to support you with understanding, respect and practical help. Our hospitals offer a comprehensive range of breastfeeding and lactation consultant services.
Our support services
We support the World Health Organization’s recommendation for exclusive breastfeeding during the first 6 months of life, with continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary foods up to 2 years and beyond.
Our caregivers are committed to providing clear, evidence-based information so you can make the best decisions for you and your baby.
Our support focuses on:
- Building your knowledge and confidence in breastfeeding.
- Helping you and your baby establish effective feeding.
- Supporting longer-term breastfeeding success.
During your pregnancy
We offer a range of parent education classes, including antenatal sessions that prepare you for breastfeeding and help you understand what to expect in the early days.
While in hospital
Our experienced midwives and nursing caregivers provide comprehensive support with breastfeeding and lactation. If needed, we can also arrange lactation consultant services with highly qualified breastfeeding specialists for additional guidance.
Once at home
Support continues after you leave hospital, with a variety of services available to you including dedicated clinics where available and home visits from our midwives and lactation consultants.
How we can support you
We can assist with a wide range of breastfeeding concerns, including:
- Difficulty attaching your baby to the breast
- Sore, cracked or inverted nipples
- Low or oversupply of milk
- Mastitis, engorgement or breast discomfort
- Settling and feeding challenges
- Concerns about your baby’s weight gain
- Breast refusal
- Expressing breast milk
- Breastfeeding twins or premature babies
Benefits of breastfeeding for your baby
Breast milk is uniquely tailored to meet your baby’s nutritional needs and offers many health benefits. Breastfed babies are less likely to experience gastrointestinal, respiratory and ear infections, and may have a reduced risk of allergies. Breastfeeding also supports your baby’s immune system and fosters a strong emotional bond.
Benefits for mothers
Breastfeeding can promote relaxation and a sense of wellbeing through the release of natural hormones. It may also support a quicker recovery after birth and reduce the risk of osteoporosis, bone fractures and certain cancers later in life. Just as importantly, it helps nurture a close and meaningful connection with your baby.
Further information
For additional support and resources, you may wish to connect with trusted organisations such as the Australian Breastfeeding Association.