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If you are trans or non-binary and are thinking about chestfeeding your baby, find out your options and further information here.
Chestfeeding is feeding your baby with milk from your chest.
If you’re able to chestfeed, it’s your decision whether you do and you can change your mind at any time. You will be fully supported in any decisions you make.
If you’ve had top surgery to remove soft tissue, you may still be able to chestfeed or express your milk.
It is not possible to know how much milk you will produce and if it will be enough for your baby. You may need to offer your baby supplementary feeds.
Your baby may find it difficult to latch on to your nipple if there is less soft tissue available. In this case, talk to your midwife.
Testosterone can decrease your milk supply. Your midwife or a GP can advise you.
If you bind (reduce the appearance of soft tissue by flattening your chest) and are chestfeeding, there may be a higher chance of you getting an infection called mastitis.
Mastitis is when your chest becomes swollen, hot and painful. You may want to try wearing a larger size binder than before.
Speak to your midwife or a GP if you think you may have mastitis.
Skin-to-skin contact with your newborn is a great way to bond with your baby.
Skin-to-skin means holding your baby naked or dressed only in a nappy against your skin.
It’s good to do at any time and will help to comfort you and your baby over the first few weeks as you get to know each other.
It's important to continue taking any medication prescribed unless your GP/specialist specifically tells you to stop. Please visit our Existing Health Conditions page for more information, or visit 'Bumps' ('Best Use of Medicines in Pregnancy').
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