'Supportive' home visits for breastfeeding mothers

Midwives will visit new parents in their homes to give advice on breastfeeding.

The service in Hull and East Yorkshire will see the specialist nurses give tips and support three days after a baby's birth.

Staff have undergone a 12-week training course at the University of Hull as part of the scheme.

Anna Harrison, midwife matron at Hull Women and Children's Hospital, described it as "an unrushed and very supportive visit".

"We know those first few days are so important once you begin breastfeeding, so our teams will come to you to assist with positioning your baby, suggest different techniques, help you overcome any issues you're having and answer any questions or concerns you might have," she said.

The midwives weigh the baby and assist breastfeeding to offer practical advice and support and can also report any concerns, such as unexpected weight loss.

Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust said the service was part of a national initiative to improve staffing levels in midwifery services.

Maternity staff have been "upskilled" to take on roles traditionally performed by midwives, the trust added.

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