During your pregnancy we will discuss the choice for breastfeeding or formula feeding. It is up to you and your partner to make a choice that feels right. We will support and guide you regardless of your choice.
Breastfeeding is the natural nutrition for your baby. It contains substances that protect against infections and diseases and is fully adapted to your baby’s needs. Breastfeeding is also healthy for you. The advice is to breastfeed for at least 6 months. The physical contact during breastfeeding gives your baby a feeling of safety, security, and trust.
After birth, breast milk is readily available. The first breast milk your baby drinks is called ‘colostrum’. It is full of antibodies that protect your baby from infections immediately after birth.
It is important to breastfeed your baby whenever he wants. In the first few days this will be about 8 to 12 times a day. This is also important to get milk production going.
Some babies need supplemental feeding after birth, in which case you can start pumping. Do you need a pumping device? Then you can rent one with us! Feel free to contact us for more information about renting a pumping device.
You can prepare yourself for breastfeeding, for instance by attending an information meeting on breastfeeding. Lactation expert Arabel Roelofs from the Kraamspecialist gives an information meeting at our facility every month.
Lactation expert
All Terra’s midwives are well-trained in guiding breastfeeding. You can come to us with all your questions and problems. Sometimes it can be a good idea to ask a lactation expert to help you think things through. A lactation expert is specialized in breastfeeding guidance. You can, among others, go to the Kraamspecialist and the Boezemvriend for a consultation.
Formula feeding
Infant formula is made from animal or plant-based substances and contains all the nutrients that your baby needs. However, it does not contain any substances that protects your baby against infections and diseases.
Standard infant formula ‘0-6 months’ can be given to your baby right from birth. There are different brands and types of powdered milk for sale. All brands in the Netherlands must meet strict quality requirements. If there are any allergies in either your family or your partner’s, it is recommended to buy a formula that is hypo-allergenic. If you are breastfeeding and want to combine this with formula feeding, it also advisable to buy a hypo-allergenic formula.
There are different shapes of bottles and teats for sale to feed your baby with. The materials of the bottles and teats can also vary. You can try out which type of bottle and teat is best for your baby. The maternity nurse and midwives from Terra can help you with this.
