Infant feeding

Infant feeding is an intrinsic part of parenthood. When it goes well it can be incredibly rewarding, but it's not always straightforward and many parents experience difficulties.

In this episode, Lynsey and Chrissy discuss the different factors that influence feeding decisions, the intricate relationship between infant feeding and mental health, and the challenges around medication and breastfeeding. 

References and resources:

• Supporting positive conversations about feeding choice and mental health (The Breastfeeding Network, 2017)
• Guilt, shame, and postpartum feeding outcomes: a systematic review (Jackson et al., 2021)
• The Breastfeeding Network
• First Steps Nutrition Trust
• GP Infant Feeding Network
• World Health Organisation factsheets
• The politics of breastfeeding - Gabriel Palmer
• Why formula feeding matters - Shel Banks
• Why breastfeeding matters - Charlotte Young

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health difficulties, there is lots of help available. You can contact your primary care provider in the first instance, or if you are based in the UK the NHS perinatal mental health website will help you to find support in your local area.