When I found out I was pregnant I knew I wanted to breastfeed as I was well aware of the benefits, and my mum breastfed myself and my sister, so it was almost expected.

I did, however, decide to try my very best, but not beat myself up if it didnt work out for me, as there can be a lot of pressure to succeed with this method of feeding.

When my daughter was born she latched on straight away, but after that we had some difficulties as she was sleepy and disinterested after an emergency c section birth.

The hospital staff were a little unhelpful and I went home, very unsure about my technique, and lacking in confidence. I perservered and am pleased to say breastfeeding began to get easier and I gained much more confidence in myself.

From the start I hated feeding my baby in public as the lack of facilities is shocking in this modern age, and even now public opinion on breastfeeding can be ignorant and upsetting. But I carried on and found ways around it, and once my daughter started the weaning process her breastfeeds decreased and I needed to feed her in public less and less.

I know it's not for everyone, and I know some people have difficulties, but I consider myself one of the lucky ones for being able to carry on, especially as I learn more and more about the benefits.

Breastfeeding is free! I save £50 a month compared to some of my friends using formula. Although I have probably spent these savings on my daughters lovely clothes!
Breastmilk contains all the nutrients a baby needs and is perfectly balanced, changing composition as babies grow and their needs change. A breastfed baby has more immunity and is less likely to suffer from ear infections, obesity, asthma, stomach problems, chest infections and loads of other illnesses.

The benefits are also passed on to the mother as breastfeeding helps your body recover more quickly after the birth, and can reduce your odds of getting breast cancer, ovarian cancer and brittle bones.

This is just the tip of the iceberg though and there are lots more benefits to both mum and baby, hence the World Health Organisation recommends exclusive breastfeeding until six months, and continuation until the baby is two.

My own experience of breastfeeding has been very positive. I have never had a negative comment, and despite it not always being easy, I have thoroughly enjoyed it all. In the early days breastfeeding gave me an excuse to relax and I used the opportunity of feeding to watch tv or call my friends.

There are lots of aids to make the whole experience easier and more comfortable, and you can buy special pillows, feeding bracelets, discreet shawls, breastfeeding clothes etc.

If you have problems or concerns about breastfeeding there is plenty of help available. The NCT is fantastic and offers plenty of support in the form of Breastfeeding Counsellors and Peer Supporters, who work on helplines and in Baby Cafes. La Leche is also a valuable resource.

All in all I am very pleased I chose to breastfeed. For me, it was so much easier and more convenient than formula feeding, and thats without taking into consideration all the health benefits. As you dont know exactly how much milk your baby is taking, you really learn to trust your body and have faith in its ability. I feel immensely proud to say that I have breastfed my daughter now for 13 months, and its up there with my major achievements.

For anyone requiring more information or a little support heres a few websites;

www.thebabycafe.co.uk
www.breastfeeding.nhs.uk
www.laleche.org.uk

Hope this helps someone!