GENERAL ADVICE AND INFORMATION
Breastfeeding is the healthiest start you can give to your baby, as breastmilk is the best form of nutrition for infants.
Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first six months (26 weeks) of an infant's life, as it provides all the nutrients a baby needs. At around six months, the introduction of solid foods is then needed to start meeting the increased nutritional needs of your baby. Breastfeeding is the cheapest and most convenient way of feeding.
Breastfeeding's myths have to be overcome, since they do not represent reality. Uncovering misunderstandings or misconceptions about breastfeeding should help to encourage more women to breastfeed.
Even if breastfeeding is not always easy, it's truly worth giving it a go as it brings your baby and yourself huge benefits. If you can cope with a few annoyances, likely to happen at the beginning, you'll be very glad you persisted and carried on breastfeeding, as it is the best for your baby.
Bear in mind that giving formula milk to a breastfed baby can make breastfeeding harder and that if you stop breastfeeding, it can be difficult to re-start. Eventually, if you are unable to or choose not to breastfeed, make sure to get advice from your health visitor or doctor.
If you need more information or any advice about feeding your baby, your midwife or health visitor will be able to help you.
