Every feeding journey starts somewhere – and for many parents, that beginning is shaped by the support they receive in the first hours and days after birth.
This is where midwives play such a vital role.
From helping with a first latch, to offering reassurance when things don’t go to plan, midwives are often the first point of support for parents navigating feeding — whether that’s breastfeeding, expressing, combination feeding, or still figuring things out.
Supporting parents in real time
The early days with a newborn can feel overwhelming. Feeding is often a big part of that — and it doesn’t always come easily.
Midwives are there to:
- guide parents through those first feeds
- offer practical support and reassurance
- help build confidence in what can feel like a completely new experience
Often, this support happens in busy, high-pressure environments — where time is limited, but the impact of that support is significant.
When things don’t go to plan
Not every feeding journey starts smoothly.
Some babies may struggle to latch.
Some parents may need to express milk in the early days.
Others may be navigating medical complexities or recovering from birth.
In these moments, having someone knowledgeable and supportive can make all the difference.
Midwives help parents understand their options, protect milk supply where needed, and find a way forward that works for them and their baby.
Image courtesy of Gemma Orchard
Small moments, big impact
Sometimes, it’s the smallest interactions that stay with parents long after those early days have passed.
A moment of reassurance.
A calm explanation.
A feeling of being listened to and supported.
These moments can shape how a parent feels about feeding — and about themselves.
Recognising the role of midwives
For International Day of the Midwife, we want to recognise the incredible work midwives do in supporting families through the early stages of feeding.
Their role goes far beyond clinical care – it’s about guidance, reassurance, and helping parents feel supported in one of the most significant transitions of their lives.
Support makes a difference
Whether it’s through hands-on guidance, reassurance, or simply being there in those early moments, midwives play a key role in helping parents feel more confident and supported.
And that support can have a lasting impact — not just on feeding, but on the overall experience of those early days.
To all the midwives supporting families every day — thank you.
