Feeding your baby

You will be offered feeding support from our experienced midwives and lactation consultants. We offer lactation support services, appropriate care and information to mothers during pregnancy and after birth. 

Breastfeeding information

We recognise that whilst breastfeeding is normal and may progress naturally, some mothers may require additional support from a midwife or lactation consultant. When you have consistent support and advice in the early days of breastfeeding it can become easier with time.

Parent information

• For signs of a hungry baby: Infant feeding cues (term)
• For signs of a hungry premature baby: Infant feeding cues (preterm)
• When and how to use nipple shields
• Hand expressing technique
• Dummies and pacifiers
• Mastitis symptoms and treatments
• Making more breast milk
• Lactation service – information for parents
• Feeding the late preterm baby

Our Lactation Services are staffed by International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs). The Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital is a Baby Friendly Health Initiative (BFHI) accredited hospital. This means that breastfeeding is encouraged, supported and promoted. Breastfed babies are not given infant formula, dummies or teats unless medically indicated or it is the parents’ informed choice.

Support after going home

Birth to five years drop-in clinics are available in the community to support parents after discharge from hospital. These free clinics offer support with early infant feeding, parenting concerns and to support parents in the transition from hospital to community. Short consultations are available at select venues on specified days between 9am and noon (no appointment required, closed on public holidays). The Child Health Service also provides a range of community health and support services for children from birth to eight years and their parents/carers.