Feeding Your Baby: Preparing with Confidence Before Your Baby Arrives
One of the questions I hear most often from expectant parents is, "How am I going to feed my baby?"
For some people, the answer feels straightforward. For others, it can feel like one of the biggest worries during pregnancy. You may already know that you'd like to breastfeed, perhaps you're planning to formula feed, maybe you're considering expressing, or perhaps you've decided to wait and see how you feel once your baby arrives.
The truth is, there isn't one right way to feed a baby, and there certainly isn't one right way to become a parent.
At Little Village Antenatal, we believe every family deserves to make informed decisions without judgement or pressure. My role isn't to tell you how you should feed your baby. It's to provide evidence-based information, answer your questions honestly and help you feel confident in whatever feeding journey lies ahead.
Whether you're expecting your first baby or welcoming another little one into your family, preparing for feeding before your baby arrives can help you feel more informed, more confident and a little less overwhelmed when those first precious days begin.
Why think about feeding before birth?
When you're preparing for your baby's arrival, it's easy to focus on labour, birth and the long list of things you need to buy. Feeding often becomes something many parents assume they'll simply work out once their baby is here.
The reality is that feeding a newborn is a learning experience for every family. Spending a little time learning about infant feeding during pregnancy can make those first few days and weeks feel much less daunting.
Whether you're planning to breastfeed, formula feed, express milk or use a combination of feeding methods, understanding what to expect can help you feel calmer. It also means that if things don't go quite as planned, you'll already know where to turn for support.
One of the things parents often tell me after their baby is born is,
"I wish someone had told me that before my baby arrived."
That's exactly why every Little Village Antenatal course includes a dedicated infant feeding session. My aim isn't to tell you what you should do. It's to help you understand your options so you can make the decisions that feel right for you and your family.
Every feeding journey is unique
It's easy to compare ourselves to others, especially when social media often shows only the highlights of early parenthood.
The reality is that every baby is different, every parent is different and every feeding journey is different.
Some babies latch easily from birth. Others need a little more time.
Some parents have an abundant milk supply, while others experience challenges they never expected.
Some families choose to formula feed from the beginning, while others breastfeed, express milk or use a combination of feeding methods.
Sometimes feeding plans change because of medical reasons. Sometimes they change because life simply doesn't unfold the way we imagined.
None of this means you've failed.
Your feeding journey does not define you as a parent.
A well-fed baby and a supported parent are always the priority.
If you're hoping to breastfeed
Breastfeeding is often described as "natural", and while breast milk is perfectly designed to meet your baby's changing nutritional needs, breastfeeding itself is something that both you and your baby learn together.
Like any new skill, it can take time.
One of the first things your body produces is colostrum, often called liquid gold. Although only small amounts are produced, colostrum is exactly what your newborn needs during those first few days. It's rich in antibodies and nutrients that help protect your baby while their own immune system is still developing.
Many parents are surprised to learn that newborn babies don't feed to a timetable. Instead, they usually feed little and often, particularly during periods of cluster feeding, where they may seem to want to feed almost constantly. Although this can feel exhausting, it's completely normal and plays an important role in helping establish your milk supply.
It's also very common to wonder whether your baby is getting enough milk, particularly before your mature milk comes in, usually around two to five days after birth.
Knowing what is normal can often be one of the greatest confidence boosters.
If breastfeeding doesn't feel straightforward, you're certainly not alone. Many parents need support with positioning, attachment or simply reassurance that everything is progressing as expected.
Asking for help early is never a sign that you're doing something wrong. In fact, getting support early can often prevent small challenges becoming bigger ones.
Skin-to-skin is about much more than cuddles
Skin-to-skin contact is often one of the first experiences you'll share with your baby after birth.
As wonderful as those first cuddles are, skin-to-skin offers so much more.
Holding your baby against your bare chest helps regulate their temperature, heart rate and breathing. It encourages your baby's natural instinct to find the breast, supports the first feed and stimulates the release of oxytocin – often known as the "love hormone" – which plays an important role in bonding and milk production.
Skin-to-skin isn't only beneficial immediately after birth. It can also help comfort and settle your baby in the days and weeks that follow, whether you're breastfeeding, bottle feeding or simply enjoying some quiet time together.
If you're planning to formula feed
Formula feeding deserves just as much preparation.
Sometimes parents worry they'll be judged for choosing formula, but every family has their own reasons and circumstances. Whether it's a decision you've made during pregnancy or one that develops after birth, you deserve the same support and evidence-based information.
Formula feeding isn't simply about making a bottle.
Learning how to prepare formula safely, sterilise feeding equipment correctly and feed responsively can help you feel much more confident when your baby arrives.
Bottle feeding is about much more than nutrition. Holding your baby close, making eye contact and responding to their feeding cues all help strengthen the bond between you and your baby.
What is responsive feeding?
One of the biggest changes in infant feeding advice over recent years is the emphasis on responsive feeding.
Rather than watching the clock, responsive feeding encourages you to watch your baby.
Early hunger cues may include:
Stirring from sleep.
Turning their head to look for the breast or bottle (known as rooting).
Bringing their hands towards their mouth.
Sucking on their fingers.
Opening their mouth or making feeding movements.
Crying is usually a late hunger cue, so recognising these earlier signs can often make feeding feel calmer for both you and your baby.
Responsive feeding also means noticing when your baby has had enough. Whether you're breastfeeding or bottle feeding, babies are usually very good at telling us when they're hungry and when they're full if we're able to watch for those cues.
Combination feeding and expressing
Many families find themselves using more than one way of feeding their baby.
Some parents express breast milk so somebody else can help with feeds. Others combine breastfeeding with formula feeding because it works best for their family or lifestyle. Sometimes feeding plans change unexpectedly following birth.
And that's okay.
Parenthood is full of adapting to what works for you and your baby.
Learning about expressing, storing breast milk safely and understanding how different feeding methods may affect milk supply can help you make informed decisions if your plans evolve.
One of the biggest messages I'd like every parent to hear is this:
It's okay if your feeding journey doesn't look exactly as you imagined.
Looking after yourself matters too
When we talk about infant feeding, it's easy for all the focus to be on the baby.
But your wellbeing matters too.
Recovering from birth, coping with broken sleep and adjusting to life with a newborn is a huge transition. Feeding can sometimes feel emotional, particularly if things don't go to plan.
Be kind to yourself.
Accept help when it's offered.
Talk to people you trust.
Remember that asking for support is never a sign of weakness.
Looking after yourself is one of the best ways you can look after your baby.
You don't have to do this alone
One of the most important things I want every parent to know is that you don't have to struggle on your own.
Whether you need practical advice, reassurance or simply someone to listen, support is available.
You can seek help from:
Your community midwife during the early postnatal period.
Your health visitor.
Your local NHS infant feeding team.
Breastfeeding support groups and peer supporters.
Your GP if you have concerns about your own health or your baby's health.
The National Breastfeeding Helpline.
Sometimes all it takes is somebody watching a feed, answering a question or reassuring you that what you're experiencing is completely normal.
No one should ever feel judged for asking questions.
National Breastfeeding Helpline
If you need breastfeeding support outside your usual appointments, the National Breastfeeding Helpline offers free, confidential support from trained volunteers every single day of the year.
Telephone:0300 100 0212
Opening hours: 9:30 am to 9:30 pm, seven days a week.
Whether you're worried about attachment, milk supply, expressing, sore nipples or simply need someone to talk things through, you're always welcome to call.
Sometimes one reassuring conversation is all it takes to help you feel more confident.
Meet our Infant Feeding Specialist
One of the things that makes Little Village Antenatal different is that every course includes a dedicated infant feeding session delivered by an experienced NHS Infant Feeding Specialist.
Our sessions are led by Judianne Sherrell, an Infant Feeding Specialist with the Greenwich Infant Feeding Team, who supports families every day with evidence-based, compassionate care.
Together we'll explore:
breastfeeding and how milk production works
skin-to-skin contact and why it matters
recognising your baby's feeding cues
responsive feeding
expressing and storing breast milk safely
formula feeding safely and responsively
combination feeding
common feeding challenges
where to access support after your baby is born.
The session isn't about telling you how you should feed your baby.
It's about helping you understand your options, feel confident asking questions and leave knowing where to turn if you ever need support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is colostrum enough for my baby?
Yes. Although colostrum is produced in small amounts, it is exactly the right amount for your baby's tiny stomach during the first few days after birth. It's rich in antibodies and nutrients, giving your baby everything they need while your mature milk is coming in.
How often should a newborn feed?
Most newborn babies feed little and often. Many babies feed at least 8 to 12 times in every 24 hours, and it's completely normal for them to feed even more frequently during periods of cluster feeding. Watching your baby's feeding cues is usually much more helpful than watching the clock.
Can I combine breastfeeding and formula feeding?
Yes. Many families choose combination feeding, either from the beginning or later on. If you're planning to breastfeed as well, it's worth discussing your plans with your midwife or infant feeding specialist, as introducing formula may affect your milk supply.
What if breastfeeding doesn't go to plan?
Many parents need extra support during the early days, particularly with positioning, attachment or concerns about milk supply. Asking for help early is one of the best things you can do and often helps resolve challenges before they become more difficult.
Where can I get help with feeding my baby?
Support is available from your midwife, health visitor, local NHS infant feeding team, breastfeeding support organisations and the National Breastfeeding Helpline. You are never expected to work everything out on your own.
Do I need to decide how I'm going to feed my baby before they're born?
Not at all. Some parents know exactly what they'd like to do, while others prefer to keep an open mind until after birth. Learning about all your options during pregnancy simply helps you make informed decisions when the time comes.
We Cover This in Our Antenatal Courses
Preparing to feed your baby isn't just about learning how to breastfeed or make up a bottle. It's about understanding your options, knowing what to expect and feeling confident enough to make the decisions that are right for you and your family.
That's why every Little Village Antenatal course includes a dedicated infant feeding session, delivered by an experienced NHS Infant Feeding Specialist. Together we'll explore breastfeeding, formula feeding, expressing, combination feeding, responsive feeding, recognising your baby's feeding cues and where to access support after your baby is born.
Our courses are small, friendly and welcoming, giving you plenty of opportunity to ask questions, practise practical skills and have open, honest conversations in a relaxed environment. Alongside infant feeding, we'll also prepare you for labour, birth, newborn care, postnatal recovery and paediatric first aid, helping you feel informed and supported every step of the way.
Based in Erith, Little Village Antenatal welcomes expectant parents from Bexley, Greenwich, Dartford and the surrounding areas. Birth partners are warmly welcomed at every session, and if you're preparing for birth on your own, you'll be just as supported as part of our village. Little Village Antenatal is FEDANT Registered (National Register Entry Number: 13969).
View our upcoming course dates and book your place today.
Because feeding your baby isn't about getting everything perfect. It's about feeling informed, supported and knowing you're never alone.
References and Further Support
The information in this blog is based on current UK evidence and guidance. If you'd like to learn more, the following organisations provide trusted information and support:
NHS – Pregnancy, breastfeeding, formula feeding and responsive feeding guidance.
UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative – Evidence-based information on infant feeding and building close, loving relationships with your baby.
The National Breastfeeding Helpline – Free, confidential support every day of the year (0300 100 0212).
The Breastfeeding Network – Information, local support groups and trained volunteers.
La Leche League GB – Breastfeeding information and peer support.
Your local NHS maternity, infant feeding and health visiting teams – Ongoing support throughout your feeding journey.
This blog is intended for general information only and should not replace advice from your midwife, health visitor, GP or maternity team. If you have any concerns about feeding your baby or your baby's wellbeing, please contact your healthcare professional. If your baby is unwell or you need urgent medical advice, seek help immediately by contacting your maternity unit, NHS 111 or, in an emergency, calling 999.