Breastfeeding Support Services
There are a number of avenues available to seek breastfeeding support.
Lactation consultants
The Lactation Consultants of Great Britain offer a service where you can find registered lactation consultants based on your local area. Lactation consultants often visit you in your home but some can also offer advice via telephone/Skype.
La Leche League has a team of counsellors who can provide support face to face in your local area or over the phone.
Hospitals
Some hospitals offer free breastfeeding workshops. Please check directly with the maternity unit at your hospital to find out the dates and times available.
Telephone hotlines
The National Breastfeeding Helpline, offers free help and is available every day from 9.30am until 9.30pm (by telephone 0300 100 0212; or online support).
The Start4Life initiative by the NHS has a telephone line available 7 days a week from 9:30am-9:30pm.
Online resources
NHS offers breastfeeding support through Facebook Messenger https://www.nhs.uk/start4life/baby/breastfeeding
Kellymom blog offers very comprehensive articles on the various breastfeeding issues that come up.
Lactation Link in the US offers online video breastfeeding courses that you can watch in your own time. This is a great way to prepare for your baby’s arrival and your breastfeeding journey.
Best beginnings also offers free short videos on breastfeeding.
Facebook groups
There are many breastfeeding groups on facebook where you can discuss your issues with other mums and seek advice.
Drugswatch
Drugswatch has published the ‘Pregnancy Health Guide‘ and specifically discusses the use of prescription drugs in pregnancy.
A second article by Drugwatch provides information on the use of antidepressent drugs by pregnant women and the link to birth defects.