If you're a first time mother you're probably feeling a little overwhelmed about everything to do with your baby. The only thing you are really certain about is the fact you want the very best for your new baby, and one of the best things you can give them is the excellent start in life breast feeding gives them

Breast milk is made by humans for humans. It is lighter than formulae milk, and is much easier for baby's to digest. Breast milk also contains all the natural nutrients a baby needs to give him a healthy start to his life

Research has also shown that breast milk contains the anti-bodies, which assist in protecting the baby against all types of infection, and in addition, breast feeding your baby also reduces the risk of childhood diabetes, leukaemia, and allergic conditions, such as asthma and eczema. A breastfeeding mother automatically produces specific antibodies to many infections, and as these antibodies transfer to her breast milk; the baby also receives these antibodies.

There are some studies which questions whether breast fed babies have a higher level of intelligence, though this is open to debate.

Breast feeding is also considered to be best for mothers too. It's thought to be the healthiest choice for a new mother to make as there is a reduced chance of contracting pre-menopausal breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and fractures from osteoporosis.

Breast feeding is also a very convenient method of feeding your baby. There is no sterilising or preparation (Its all on tap). There is also a special type of bond formed between the mother and her baby.


However if you feel you can't breast feed, or you are unable to do so, it doesn't make you an unfit mother. If you want to use formula milk that's fine, you will still love your baby just as much.

Some women have never taken to the idea of breast feeding their baby, or they feel due to work commitments or other problems it just isn't suitable for them. There are probably lots of reasons, and at the end of the day, it doesn't really matter.

Some mothers may start to breastfeed and then finish up using formula, again this can be due to a variety of reasons, including a loss of confidence, disappointment or any other host of reasons. Please don't feel guilty about it.


If you do decide to breast feed, there are some purchases you may wish to make to make it easier for you, these are as follows.

A Nursing bra is a must, your breasts are going to change and enlarge, it's important you keep them as supported as possible to reduce any sagging later. These types of bras are also very useful when nursing your baby as they are discreet and convenient.

Don't forget your breast pads, if you are away from your baby for a while. Your body may decide to tell you its time they were fed. Your breasts may leak and cause embarrassing wet marks to your clothing (pads are a must buy)

Nipple shields can be useful especially if your nipples become sore when you are feeding.

You may also want to invest in a breast pump. Unless you want to spend the next few months constantly tied to your baby, you are going to need to express some of your milk. So a breast pump will become a necessity.