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Updated: Apr 18, 2026

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Mothers' Experiences of Formula Feeding Support in the UK: A Qualitative Systematic Review

Eilish James1,2, Gary Hoang3, Daniel Lange1

  • 1Department of Applied Health Sciences, School of Health Sciences, College of Medicine and Health, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.

Maternal & Child Nutrition
|April 17, 2026
PubMed

Most babies in the UK and Ireland receive formula milk in their first 6 months of life. Understanding mothers' perceptions of formula feeding support is crucial in shaping practical guidelines, research-based strategies and future policies to support formula feeding decisions. This review aimed to synthesise qualitative evidence on mothers' experiences of formula feeding support in the UK and Ireland. The Cochrane Handbook guidance for systematic reviews was followed and MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Web of Science and ASSIA (ProQuest) databases were searched. Ten included papers were assessed for methodological quality using a CASP checklist. The Thomas and Harden three-stage approach was used to thematically synthesise the data. The synthesised findings include: (1) Limited support for formula feeding, (2) Withheld or conflicting healthcare professional support, and (3) Emotional health and wellbeing impact on mothers. Mothers who formula feed require empathetic, formal guidance from HCPs as they navigate their feeding journey. This review highlights predominantly negative experiences due to inadequate support received. Formula feeding support should be recognised as an essential element in perinatal care. Future research could investigate effective interventions for formula feeding support strategies.

Keywords:
bottle feedingformula feedinginfant feedinginfant formulaqualitativesupportsystematic review

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