Breastfeeding

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Breast milk is the ideal food for a baby. It is nutritionally balanced, with the perfect amount of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and iron to help the baby to grow. It also changes to suit the different needs of the baby as it grows.

The UK government supports the World Health Organisation recommendation that:

Breast milk is the best form of nutrition for infants.
Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended for the first 6 months (26 weeks) of an infantâ€™s life, as it provides all the nutrients a baby needs.
Breastfeeding (and/or breast milk substitutes, if used) should continue for a minimum of the first six months. It should also continue as solid food is introduced.
Mothers who are unable to, or choose not to, breastfeed, should discuss other options with their midwife or GP while pregnant. It is important for mothers who do not breastfeed to get the support and information they need to make sure their baby gets the nutrition it needs.

Breastfeeding is the completely natural way to feed your baby. It also has short-term and long-term health benefits for both mother and child. The experience of breastfeeding can be a very satisfying and relaxing one, promoting closeness between mother and child. Support from family, friends and health professionals is also important, particularly for first time mothers, or mothers who find it difficult to get used to.

If you have any concerns regarding breastfeeding, or need to find out how to breastfeed properly, there are many sources of help, advice and support available, including your midwife, self-help groups, telephone helplines and breastfeeding counsellors.