Rea Halstead

Infant Feeding Specialist Midwife & IBCLC

Please contact Rea directly to make your appointment.

I’m an Infant Feeding Specialist Midwife with over 15 years’ experience in maternity care, supporting families through pregnancy and early parenthood. I understand how complex feeding can feel while adjusting to life with a new baby, and I offer personalised, compassionate support tailored to your family’s needs. From pregnancy preparation to postnatal care, I provide evidence-based guidance on breastfeeding, bottle feeding, and combination feeding—helping you feel confident and supported every step of the way.​

Pregnancy (Antenatal Support) 

During pregnancy, I help you feel informed, prepared, and confident about feeding your baby. Together, we explore all feeding options in a balanced and non-judgemental way, so you can make decisions that align with your values and circumstances.

This includes:

• Understanding breastfeeding, bottle feeding, and combination feeding

• Practical preparation for feeding after birth

• Setting realistic expectations of early feeding and newborn behaviour

• Exploring your personal goals and any medical or lifestyle considerations

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Early Postnatal Support

The first days and weeks after birth can feel intense and uncertain. I provide hands-on, compassionate support to help you navigate feeding, recovery, and getting to know your baby.

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Support may include:

• Breastfeeding support, positioning, and latch optimisation

• Troubleshooting common feeding challenges (e.g. pain, low supply concerns, unsettled feeding)

• Responsive bottle feeding guidance

• Support with combination feeding

• Understanding normal newborn behaviour and feeding patterns

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Ongoing Postnatal Support

As your baby grows, feeding needs often evolve. I offer continued support to help you adapt with confidence and respond to changes in your baby’s development.

This includes:

• Managing changes in feeding routines

• Supporting continued breastfeeding or transitioning between feeding methods

• Returning to work and feeding planning

• Emotional support and reassurance as you build confidence in your parenting journey

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My care is you-focussed, kind of care.

With over 15 years of experience in maternity care, I recognise that feeding is not just about nutrition—it is closely linked to bonding, emotional wellbeing, and your overall experience of early parenthood. I see my role as support for you without judgement, provide clear and evidence-based guidance, and help you feel confident in caring for your baby. Together, we create a feeding approach that works for your family, your lifestyle, and your goals.