by Rebecca Mackinnon

Created on: June 11, 2008

Having had my first child 7 weeks ago I remember sitting there staring at my bump absolutely sure I wanted to breast feed my newborn.
It never ceases to amaze me how so many people are quick to offer up thier advice swiftly followed by "but if you can't breast feed it's fine just give up".
There are many benefits of breast feeding your baby that include:

You pass on anti bodies to prevent illness such as ear infections and eczema

It's free
Breastmilk is always at the perfect temperature
No sterilising of bottles
You can feed quickly and conviniently at anytime
Some studies have shown it can help prevent against SIDS and helps to develop the baby better
There is less "wastage" from the baby

Breast milk is specifically designed to give the baby everything they need for both food and drink and lets face it it has served our ancesters well for years before!

And lets not forget the benefits to mum:
Can help to prevent breast cancer and ovarian cancer
We are at a lower risk of suffering from hip fractures

In my opinion many problems women face when breast feeding that often forces them to quit is due to not being relevant support and advice during the first few weeks when breastfeeding can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful.
From personal experience I remember that I wasn't offered the greatest advice and by week 2 was ready to give up, my nipples were sore, cracked and bleeding and I dreaded each feed.
Thankfully a family member who had attended a breast feeding club passed on some valuable advice.

Before a feed is due place a warm wet flannel over your nipples to prepare the skin it will soften it and soothe any soreness you have.
If your breasts feel full express a little milk in a warm bath - if you are unsure how to express doing it in a warm bath makes it alot easier.
Lansinoh will really help with any soreness apply after each feed and pop on clean new breast pads.

Midwives advised I shouldn't use nipple shields until the baby was at least 3 weeks but I was in so much pain I used them anyway and they really helped, I used them every other feed which meant my nipples had a good break between feeds.
I also expressed milk and bottle fed during a few very sore days.

Always ensure your baby is latched on properly. When latching on baby's nose should be level with your nipple so that when baby opens it's mouth it stretches it very wide, it's bottom lip should be at the bottom of your nipple - this means your nipple will be in the very top of baby's mouth.
If unsure always ask the Midwife or health visitor who should be able to offer the best advice!

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