faces of feeding
Go to homepage
Wishlist
Shopping cart £0.00*

Faces of Feeding

Feeding your baby is one of the most rewarding experiences you’ll ever have. However, mums are often told there’s only one perfect way of feeding a baby. Even if they manage to successfully breastfeed, there are still judgements and preconceptions which can make them feel like they’re getting it all wrong. But as with all aspects of the parenting journey, feeding is a completely unique adventure for every mother and baby. We believe that what works for mum works for baby. Whether it’s breastfeeding, bottle feeding, or a combination. Feeding alone or with partners, parents, or friends. At home or on the go. Your way is the right way.


Our new campaign Faces of Feeding shares the feeding stories you might not have heard. We’re here to advocate for every feeding choice and share real feeding moments and meet the families doing it their way.

Become a MAM Face of Feeding

Share your feeding story and help us normalise the unnormal. Every person entering will receive a code for a 20% MAM discount.


  • Images in high resolution, portrait format. 
  • Images should be natural and without picture filters / enhancement. 
  • We welcome imagery picturing different feeding locations, time of day, and feeding methods. 
  • Person feeding and baby must both visible 
  • Details of who is featured in the picture (name, contact details and their relationship to baby
  • Up to 500 words explaining why they you love to feature in the campaign explaining your: Family set up (a bit about baby’s parents, siblings, where you live, career and life interests) 
  • Approach to feeding (breast, bottle, hybrid) and the journey / your experience (highs and lows)
  • Any specific challenges you have faced / overcome
  •  One tip they would share with a first time Mum or Dad / parenting realism or piece of advice they wish they had been told

Please note that photographs uploaded may be used across social media. By uploading photographs you are agreeing to these photographs being used across the mambaby_uk instagram page.



Your Story
Your Pictures**
Images
Images
Images
Images
Images
Your Information

* Mandatory fields
** Upload pictures with a maximum size of 4MB

We’ve spoken to a whole range of people about their breastfeeding experiences. Find out what they said about their journey from their reasons to breastfeed their babies to uncomfortable glances in public. Read now!

Breast feeding FAQs – answered from three perspectives

When it comes to the biggest questions people are asking about feeding, there’s more than one viewpoint. Here are the most popular queries and answers from the NHS, a midwife, and a mum.

NHS Research
 "While breastfeeding, limit caffeine to 300mg daily (found in coffee, tea, chocolate, and energy drinks) as it can make your baby restless. It’s safer to avoid alcohol, but an occasional drink (1-2 units) is fine if you allow 2-3 hours between drinking and breastfeeding. Limit your intake of shark, swordfish, and marlin due to high mercury levels. Peanuts are generally safe unless you’re allergic. If your baby shows signs of cow’s milk allergy (skin reactions, lip or face swelling, tummy ache, vomiting or eczema) or lactose intolerance (diarrhoea, vomiting, tummy pain/rumbling or wind) consult your doctor or health visitor."

Midwife – Angie
 "The short answer is you don't need to avoid any specific foods while breastfeeding unless your baby shows signs of allergies. You can enjoy moderate caffeine (up to 300mg a day) but be mindful of giving your baby high-caffeine milk at night as it could impact their sleep. Drinking alcohol is OK in moderation - just make sure you're able to care for your baby and avoid co-sleeping after drinking, as the chance of a co-sleeping death increases by 10 times with alcohol in the system. Breastfeeding mums need an extra 500 calories per day, so a balanced diet rich with vitamins and minerals will help support milk production and help to keep you and baby healthy." 

New Mum – Zoe
  "As a breastfeeding mum, I do my best to stick to a well-balanced diet to make sure my baby and I are getting all the good stuff we need. I love my tea and coffee, but I switch to decaf in the afternoons and evenings to help us sleep better. Even with all my planning, I still find myself feeling super hungry a lot of the time, especially with having two older children. To keep myself from reaching for cakes and biscuits, I go for high-protein, high-fibre snacks that actually keep me full. Meal prepping is a lifesaver for me – I make overnight oats and always try to plan ahead. When I’m making dinner, I’ll set aside something for lunch the next day to make sure I’m fuelling my body properly. In the very early days of my third baby, I was recovering from a C-section, so I needed to fuel my body properly to aid my recovery."
NHS
"Breastfeeding has numerous benefits: it meets all nutritional needs, protects from infections and diseases, offers health benefits for the mother, is always available, adapts to your baby's needs and can boost the emotional bond between mum and baby. Breastfeeding benefits extend into adulthood, reducing risks of infections, SIDS, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. Exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months is recommended, then continue with solid foods. For mothers, breastfeeding lowers the risk of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and obesity. The more you breastfeed, the greater the benefits."

Midwife Angie
"Breastfeeding is amazing for your baby’s nutrition and immunity, lowering the risks of asthma, obesity, diabetes, infections, and even sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). It can also reduce the risk of your baby developing leukaemia, if you breastfeed for two years. For you, it might delay your periods, lower your risk of ovarian and breast cancer, and help with weight loss. Plus, it’s free and can be really convenient - you can breastfeed anywhere, anytime. If you're sustainably minded, breastfeeding also has a smaller carbon footprint than formula feeding. According to our research, 82% of mums choose to breastfeed because it improves the bond between mother and child. However, breastfeeding can be challenging, or even impossible for some mums with health conditions such as HIV or those who've had breast surgery. In the first few days and weeks, latch issues can be particularly difficult, especially with premature babies. Balancing breastfeeding with work can also be tricky, making it feel relentless at times. Additionally, there's a risk of mastitis, particularly in the first three weeks, but prevention is better than cure, and if you detect any symptoms, seek help straight away."

New mum, Zoe
"On the pro side, it’s really convenient. We’re an outdoorsy family, and breastfeeding makes it so easy to just pack up and go. When I’m trying to get out of the house with my older kids, all I need is the baby and a changing bag – no need to worry about formula, bottles, or sterilising equipment. Plus, I know she’s getting everything she needs at the perfect temperature. When I’m breastfeeding, it’s like a special moment that brings my baby back to me, keeping us connected. And for those parents worried about dad or other family members missing out, there are plenty of ways they can support – like bringing me snacks and drinks, tidying up, or making dinner. It really helps take the mental load off, especially when I’m stressed about things like unwashed breakfast dishes. On the other hand, it can be tough feeling like everything is on me. My two older kids sometimes need attention too, and it’s hard to balance. Going out without the baby requires a lot of planning, and that can be tricky too. But even with these challenges, I wouldn’t change the experience – the benefits definitely make it worth it."


NHS
 "Every baby is different. Some babies want frequent short feeds, and others prefer feeding for longer, or a mixture of both. Let your baby finish the first breast, then offer the second. If your baby feeds all the time and you're worried, speak to a midwife, health visitor or a breastfeeding specialist. You may need some help with positioning and attachment. You can also call the National Breastfeeding Helpline on 0300 100 0212. Breastfeeding for at least six months is recommended by the NHS, and two years or more by the World Health Organisation, but it's up to every family to decide what's best for mum and baby. It's your choice."

Midwife – Angie

"Whether you give just one feed of breast milk, or feed for a week, a month, a year or longer, every breastfeed - even alongside formula - has huge benefits for mum and baby. Each feed of breast milk boosts your baby’s immune system and lowers risks of developing allergies and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), especially if breastfeeding before eight weeks. Babies need 8-12 feeds every 24 hours, each lasting 5-45 minutes. Cluster feeding, often in the evening, helps increase milk supply and induce sleep due to melatonin in breast milk.

Every family is different, so do what works best for you. The natural baby weaning typically happens around 3-4 years, but for most families this isn't possible so just do it for as long as you can."       


New Mum – Zoe
 "Deciding how long to breastfeed is such a personal journey and what matters most is that both you and your baby are happy and getting what you need. My first daughter breastfed until she was three, and I even breastfed her through my pregnancy with my second child. We did tandem feeding right into toddlerhood, which worked well for us. But I know that’s not for everyone – some mums choose to breastfeed for just six days, six weeks or six months, and that’s perfectly OK too. Ultimately, it comes down to what makes you and your baby happy. It’s completely a personal choice. If someone had told me before having children that I’d be breastfeeding a toddler, I might have been surprised, but it just became part of our routine, helping with connection, sleep, and getting out of the house! "
NHS
"Using a breast pump offers several benefits and a few challenges. On the positive side, it provides flexibility for mothers, allowing them to express milk and store it for later use, ensuring the baby can be fed even when the mother is not there. When combined with direct breastfeeding it can also lead to an increase in milk supply. Electric pumps are efficient and save time, while manual pumps are more affordable and portable. However, some cons include the potential discomfort from pumping, the need for regular cleaning and sterilising of parts, and the initial cost of buying a pump. The noise from some electric pumps can also be disruptive, and finding a private space for pumping can sometimes be challenging." 

Midwife – Angie
 "Our research shows that 49% of mums give their main reason for breast pumping as ‘wanting to better involve their partner in feeding their baby’. Pumping lets you share feeds with your partner or other family members, giving you the flexibility to leave your baby for a few hours or return to work. Your baby still gets all the health benefits and immunity from breast milk, even if it's given in a bottle. According to our research, 67% of mums stop breastfeeding due to either insufficient milk production (40%) or breastfeeding problems (27%). Exclusive Pumping can be a great option for mums who don’t like direct breastfeeding, are experiencing some challenges with breastfeeding or have premature babies. If used in combination with breastfeeding pumping can actually lead to an increase in milk supply, however maintaining supply can be more of a challenge when exclusively pumping. When direct breastfeeding and exclusive pumping are compared, women are more likely to end the breastmilk journey earlier with exclusive pumping and report challenges longer term in milk production. Exclusive pumping takes more time than direct breastfeeding because you need to pump and then feed your baby, and milk supply might decrease as pumps aren't as effective at sucking as babies are! When direct breastfeeding and exclusive pumping are compared, women are more likely to end the breastmilk journey earlier with exclusive pumping and report challenges longer term in milk production. It's also more expensive than direct breastfeeding due to the cost of pumps and sterilisation. However, wearable pumps like the MAM Baby Move pump can help save time and effort, and techniques like power pumping can help maintain your supply." 

New Mum Zoe
"Breast pumping has its ups and downs, just like breastfeeding. One of the biggest pros for me is that it gives me a much-needed break. My husband is incredibly supportive, and pumping allows him to step in and feed the baby, which is a huge help. While breastfeeding directly is usually more convenient, there are times, like when I have an appointment, that pumping is a lifesaver. It lets me do things that make me feel like myself, which is so important. It’s also nice to be able to handle things like dentist appointments without juggling the baby. And with older children, they love being able to help by giving a bottle of expressed milk – it becomes a bonding experience for the whole family. I find peace of mind in knowing that my baby will take a bottle if there's an emergency, and I've always got some frozen breast milk just in case. However, pumping can sometimes be a hassle. It requires planning and can feel like an added chore on top of everything else. But despite the extra effort, the benefits make it worth it for the flexibility and support it gives us as a family.."
NHS
To store breast milk, use sterilised containers or special storage bags, and always label and date them. Store milk in small quantities to minimise waste. You can keep breast milk can at the back of the fridge (not the door) for up to eight days at 4°C or colder, in the fridge’s ice compartment for up to two weeks, or in the freezer for up to six months at -18°C or colder. Thaw frozen milk in the fridge or by placing it in warm water. Use thawed milk immediately and discard leftovers. Never refreeze thawed milk or use a microwave for defrosting (to avoid hot spots).

Midwife - Angie
"You can collect breast milk in the same container over a 24-hour period, but store in small quantities of around 60-90ml to avoid waste. Freshly pumped milk can stay out of the fridge for up to six hours. Store in the fridge (at 4°C or lower) for up to 8 days, and if the fridge is warmer than 4°C, use it within three days. In the freezer compartment of a fridge, it lasts two weeks, and up to six months in a standalone freezer. Use sterilised bags or containers like our MAM Baby Storage Solution pots, which are ideal for storing up reserves of breast milk. Once defrosted, use within 24 hours. It's best to defrost milk slowly in the fridge or quickly in warm (not hot) water." 

New Mum – Zoe
"Storing breast milk after pumping can be pretty easy once you get into a good routine. I use MAM storage pots because they’re reusable, which is great for the environment. Breast milk storage bags are also really convenient and come sterile, but they do end up in the bin and can run out quickly. I always make sure to have both options in the house. With the storage pots, I just wash them, write labels on them, and they’re good to go for accurate storage. When I pump because my baby slept through and I need to express for my own comfort, I usually pop it in the freezer as an insurance policy. It’s comforting to know we have a backup stash. If I know I’m going to be separated from my baby and have a plan for the week, I’ll put the milk in the fridge. This way, my husband doesn’t have to worry about warming it or defrosting it – he can just heat it up straight from the fridge. "
NHS
 "Breastfeeding can sometimes be painful for a few different reasons. For example, breast engorgement, where breasts become overly full and hard, is common when milk first comes in or when the baby isn't feeding well. This can cause nipple pain and discomfort. If your baby isn't latching properly or has a tongue tie, this can cause some discomfort too. Other issues include blocked milk ducts, resulting from improper draining during feeds, can create tender lumps in the breast. If not addressed, this can lead to mastitis, an inflammation causing flu-like symptoms and requiring antibiotics. Thrush, an infection causing pain during and after feeding, is another possible issue. Seek help from a midwife, health visitor, or lactation consultant if you're experiencing painful symptoms."

Midwife – Angie
 "Breastfeeding feels different and unusual if you're new to it, but it shouldn't be painful. If you experience pain or discomfort, contact your midwife, health visitor, lactation consultant, or breastfeeding peer supporter. Pain could indicate issues with positioning, attachment, baby’s jaw function, or a tongue tie. If you've had an instrumental birth like a ventouse or forceps, it might affect the baby's latch, so seek advice early to prevent nipple soreness and help get the right treatments, like creams or compresses. Some women find expressing milk more comfortable. Some women experience D-MER, an intense feeling during let-down, which can be tingly or uncomfortable. If you're experiencing some discomfort during breastfeeding and have spoken to your midwife or health visitor to rule out any underlying issues, then why not give MAM Nipple Shields a try. They're made of soft silicone and offer short term protection during breastfeeding. They have a special MAM shape which lets baby feel and smell mum's skin for a close and natural breastfeeding experience."

 New Mum - Zoe
 Breastfeeding can be uncomfortable, especially at first. Straight after birth, your nipples might feel sensitive, even battered, and there’s a bit of discomfort as the baby nurses for hours. Minor tenderness is normal, but it shouldn’t make you dread feeding or cause intense pain. Generally, I’m comfortable, but during cluster feeding or teething, my nipples can get sore again. If you experience pain, seek professional support sooner rather than later – even having someone check your latch can help. My advice is not to grin and bear it - get help sooner rather than later.
NHS 
"If your baby is admitted to a neonatal unit, aim to start expressing by the time your baby is two hours old, or as soon as possible. Breast milk production relies on two hormones: prolactin, which makes milk, and oxytocin, which releases it. These hormones are stimulated by milk removal, touching your baby, breast massage, and nipple stimulation. To start with, hand express colostrum into a syringe due to its thick consistency. Transition to pump expressing as milk flow increases. Aim to express 8 to 12 times in 24 hours, including at least once between 2am and 4am when prolactin levels peak."

Midwife - Angie
 "According to our research, 41% of mums give their main reason for pumping to stimulate milk flow. And one study shows using a breast pump during pregnancy, starting at 38 weeks, can help to ripen the cervix ready for labour and birth. During pregnancy, hand expressing is the best way to express to store breastmilk to use after birth as colostrum is small quantities. If breastfeeding is going well, ideally wait 4-6 weeks post-birth before pumping if breastfeeding is established, but for exclusive pumpers, start by hand expressing to have milk to give to baby but then pump express after hand expressing to stimulate the milk supply in but you need to pump for an hour a day. For exclusively pumping mums, try to start within 36 hours of birth. Hand expressing is usually recommended for the first three days to get the milk out because it's such a small quantity, however it's high in fat, protein and calories making it great for your newborn. If expressing earlier than 4-6 weeks, do it just once a day to avoid oversupply, and choose a time of day that works for you"
 
New Mum – Zoe 
 "Finding the right time of day for a regular pumping routine really depends on what fits around your daily routine, like the school run. I wait until I can stop for a moment and then pump. Your breasts are usually fuller in the morning, so it’s often easier and quicker to pump then, but really, any time works. During my third pregnancy, I had gestational diabetes and started colostrum harvesting at 36 weeks to have it ready for my baby in case her sugar levels dropped after birth. When I went back to work, I took my pump to work, pumping for comfort and storing milk in an insulated bag to put in the fridge at home."
NHS
"In the first few days, you and your baby will be getting to know each other and learning to breastfeed, which can take time and varies for everyone. Around 2 to 4 days after birth, your breasts become fuller as your milk 'comes in'. Feeding your baby on demand helps your body adjust milk production to their needs. To start with, you'll produce colostrum, a thick, nutrient-rich milk. Frequent night feedings are really important in the first few days as they increase prolactin levels, boosting milk supply. If you're planning to breast feed your baby, try to avoid formula or dummies early on to prevent lowering your milk supply. Seek advice from a midwife or health visitor if needed."

Midwife - Angie
 "First, there's colostrum, the initial milk full of antibodies and nutrients. It’s thick, yellow, and perfect for a newborn’s tiny tummy. By days 3-5, it becomes transitional milk, and after two weeks, it’s mature milk which adapts to your baby’s needs throughout the day with higher fat and protein at night to help with sleep. Your milk keeps adjusting as your baby grows, and it's perfectly normal for milk to change colour slightly based on your diet. With higher antibody content for toddlers to boost immunity, breast milk is always perfectly tailored to your child."

 New mum - Zoe
 "Breastfeeding stages have varied with each of my three children. With my first, it was all new. My second brought the challenge of tandem feeding, and with my third baby, I started from scratch again. In the beginning, it’s emotional and intense, full of hormones and wonder. Each birth was different, but the early days were always very immersive and emotional. When the milk comes in, it was quite overwhelming trying to juggle a newborn and my other children, but eventually, breastfeeding becomes convenient. You learn the hacks, get in tune with your baby, and find a loose routine. It's all about finding your feet and then you'll never look back."
NHS
"If you choose to use a dummy for your breastfed baby, wait until breastfeeding is well established, which can take a few weeks. Breastfeeding provides numerous benefits for you and your baby, and different shapes of dummies are available, including orthodontic ones for premature babies to help establish good sucking. Take the dummy away between 6 and 12 months to avoid potential issues like ear infections or teeth misalignment. Use the dummy consistently for all sleep times to help reduce the risk of SIDS. Do not force your baby to take the dummy or reinsert it if they spit it out during sleep.

Midwife – Angie 
Yes, you can use a soother for a breastfed baby, but it's important to feed your baby when they make feeding cues in the early few weeks to prevent any impact on milk supply, and baby feeds enough. Feeding cues for breastfed babies include the rooting reflex, hand-to-mouth movements, turning their head towards the parents’ chest, lip smacking, increased alertness, nuzzling, and fussiness and crying. Soothers such the MAM Baby Comfort Silicone Soother have a soft, extra-small teat to support your baby's natural sucking behaviour. Once your baby is feeding well, gaining weight, and everything is stable, it's usually safe to introduce a soother. Just be mindful of feeding cues and ensure your baby is fed when hungry."

New Mum - Zoe
 "All three of my children used soothers, and I continued breastfeeding into toddlerhood without any issues. I never used it to replace a feed - instead, it was to soothe them after feeding, to meet their comfort needs, especially in the car. If they were still fussy and we needed to go out for shopping or appointments, the soother helped them settle and it made driving much safer and less stressful for me and my babies. Using a soother complemented our breastfeeding journey wonderfully. It allowed me to enjoy feeding sessions and gave me a break for a nap or other tasks. Just remember to wait until breastfeeding is well established before introducing a soother, so it doesn’t interfere with feeding."
NHS
 "There are several effective breastfeeding positions that can be comfortable for you and your baby. The cradle hold, a popular choice, involves sitting comfortably and laying your baby across your lap. For caesarean mothers, lying on your side can be more comfortable, as it avoids pressure on the scar. Laid-back nursing, or biological nursing, allows you to recline comfortably with your baby lying on your front. The rugby hold, or clutch, is ideal for caesarean recovery or feeding twins, positioning the baby at your side under your arm. Each position has its benefits, so find what works best for you and your baby to ensure a comfortable feeding experience."

 Midwife - Angie
 Each mum and baby are different and there are many breastfeeding positions to try. For C-section mums, lying on your side with a pillow for support can be comfy, especially at night. Cross cradle hold is common, with the baby across your arm on the opposite breast. Cradle hold, where the baby is slightly upright, can help with reflux. The rugby ball position is great for twins, placing them under each arm. Koala hold has the baby sitting on your leg, hugging you. Another position is laying on your back with the baby on your tummy. Experiment to find what works best for you and your baby.

 New mum - Zoe
"Finding the best breastfeeding positions can make a huge difference. I find the cradle hold great for being discreet and easy when out and about – even now my baby is a bit bigger at six months old. When my babies were very new and I needed a good position to establish the latch, the rugby ball or underarm hold is fantastic. It’s especially useful to help establish the latch at first, as you to see what you’re doing. Plus, it keeps their feet away from a C-section scar. For overnight feeds, I find lying down really good as sitting up every time would make it hard to get back to sleep. So I start with sitting up for early night feeds to ensure a good latch, but then switch to lying down as my babies get older."
NHS
"To make sure your baby is getting enough milk, watch for key signs during and after feeds. Your baby should start with rapid sucks followed by rhythmic sucking and swallowing, with rounded cheeks and visible swallowing. They should be calm during feeds and come off the breast on their own, appearing content and satisfied. Your breasts will feel softer, and your nipple should look normal, not flattened or pinched. All babies loose weight in the first three days, but after this your baby should start gaining weight steadily and after the first two weeks, they should be back at their birth weight. Look out for at least six heavy, wet nappies and two soft, yellow poos daily. A healthy, alert demeanour when awake is also a positive sign. Talk to your doctor, midwife or health visitor if you're not sure your baby is getting enough milk." 

 Midwife - Angie
 You'll know your baby has had enough milk if they naturally come off the breast and seem calm and relaxed. You can offer the other breast - if they're not hungry, they won't take it. Also, what goes in must come out! So you know if your baby’s getting enough milk by keeping an eye on their nappy output. Poos will change from black to green to yellow mustard over the course of the first 5-7 days, and they should regain birth weight by days 14-21. You should be given the BFI feeding chart for the number of poos and wees in the first 5 days. The best way to check this is to expect one wet nappy on day one, two on day two, etc, up to five by day five, then 5-7 wet nappies daily. Poos change from black meconium to green by day 3-5, then yellow mustard, and your baby should regain their birth weight by days 14-21. If in doubt, chat to your midwife or health visitor."

 New Mum – Zoe
 "Knowing if your baby has had enough milk can be a bit daunting at first, but you’ll start to notice their feeding cues. When they’re sucking their mouth or rooting, it’s a sign they’re hungry. After feeding, if they’re sleepy, content, and have relaxed hands, they’re likely full and calm. Keep an eye on wet and dirty nappies, weight gain, and them outgrowing their babygros as good indicators. As they get older, like my baby now, they might pull off or babble when they’re done. It’s all about learning and recognising your baby’s unique cues."
NHS
 "Harvesting colostrum before birth can be beneficial, especially if your baby has feeding difficulties or low blood sugar at birth. Around 36 weeks of pregnancy, you can start collecting colostrum by hand expressing. Wash your hands, then gently massage and cup your breast in a 'C' shape around the nipple. Use a clean, sterilised syringe to collect the drops. Expressing after a warm bath or shower can help stimulate flow. It may start as a few drops per session, but consistency pays off. This precious early milk, rich in antibodies and vital nutrients, supports your baby's immune system and digestive development from the first feeds."

Midwife- Angie 
"From around 36-37 weeks (unless your doctor advises differently or baby's coming early), you can start getting your colostrum ready. It's not just great for your little one, but it can also be reassuring for you and a chance to practice pumping early on. Try after a warm bath or shower, which really helps soften the tissue or use a warm compress or a snuggly hot water bottle. Then make a C-shape with your thumb and finger and place near the areola (the dark area around your nipple). Hunt for the milk ducts, which feel like little 'nobbly bits' and gently squeeze for a couple of minutes, and see what comes out. At first, it might just be a few drops or a little glistening. Do this every morning and night until you start seeing more flow. Before delivery, the maximum you can usually collect is about half a syringe (it's the removal of the placenta that really kickstarts milk production). Pop it in the freezer as a backup plan in case breastfeeding needs a boost or if your baby spends time in NICU.

New Mum - Zoe
"I started harvesting colostrum at 36 weeks with my third baby because I had gestational diabetes. Following my midwife's guidance, I hand expressed to build a stock of colostrum for my baby's birth if we needed it for medical reasons."