Not all maternity units have baby milk and feeding equipment available¹, unless there is a medical need. So if you’re planning to formula feed or express your breast milk for bottle-feeding, it’s important to check whether you need to bring your own supplies.

If you’re planning to formula feed, most probably you will need to bring ready-to-feed liquid formula of your brand of preference to the hospital as not all hospitals have the facilities for the safe preparation or storage of powdered formula². Talk to your midwife or healthcare professional if you have any questions or need support.

Formula feeding: Preparing the first feed

Some – but not all – hospitals will teach you how to make up your baby’s first bottle-feed. It’s your chance to ask any questions you might have so that you can feel confident when it comes to sterilising bottles and preparing feeds at home.

Using the right teat

When it comes to bottle-feeding, it’s not a case of one teat fits all. Every baby is different and you may need to use different bottles and teats until you find one your baby is happy with. Your midwife or the baby feeding advisors at the hospital can advise you on the most suitable teat for your baby.

Your baby’s needs change constantly as they develop, so bear in mind that you might need to change bottles and teats during your baby’s feeding journey to keep them feeding comfortably.