Breastfeeding and preconception health

Helping families to understand breastfeeding and its benefits before pregnancy can help them plan for future pregnancies.

Breastfeeding supports maternal health, reduces risks of cancers, heart disease and obesity. It protects children from illnesses such as infections, diabetes, asthma and cot death (sudden infant death syndrome).

Breast milk provides essential nutrients tailored to the baby's needs and supports their growth and development. It is also a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option.

Partners and non-birthing parents can bond with babies through skin-to-skin contact, bathing, reading or feeding expressed breast milk after breastfeeding is established.

More information

Derbyshire Community Health Services - breastfeeding support service planning to breastfeed a baby is a wonderful decision for the long-term health, development and growth of a child. There are many health benefits for mothers and babies when breastfeeding.

UNICEF - the benefits of breastfeeding  UNICEFS work to support breastfeeding is based on extensive and resounding evidence that breastfeeding saves lives, improves health and cuts costs in every country worldwide.

NHS - benefits of breastfeeding - it is never too early to start thinking about how you're going to feed your baby. But you do not have to make up your mind until your baby is born.