Your breastmilk is perfect for your baby and adapts to meet your baby's changing needs. Most babies will need no other food or drink until they are at least four to six months old.

Breastmilk contains antibodies to protect your baby from infection. Tummy upsets, chest infections, ear infections and urine infections are all less likely in a breastfed baby.

Breastfeeding will continue to benefit your baby as he grows. Research suggests that breastfed babies have better mental development and may also be protected from eczema and diabetes during childhood. Children who were breastfed as babies tend to have lower blood pressure than those who were bottlefed.

Breastfeeding is also good for mothers. It helps you lose the weight gained during pregnancy. It can help protect you from breast and ovarian cancer and give you stronger bones in later life.

Breastfeeding Benefits

• Protection against diarrhoea and tummy upsets.
• Less smelly nappies.
• Lower risk of diabetes.
• Protection against chest infections and wheezing.
• Protection against ear infections.
• Better mental development.
• Better mouth formation.
• Less eczema.
• Stronger bones for the mother in later life.
• Lower risk of early breast cancer in the mother.

Breastfeeding need not stop you and your baby going out and enjoying life. You can breastfeed almost anywhere. If you wear fairly loose clothing you can feed without worrying that you are showing your breast. You may feel a little uncomfortable at first but will soon find you get more confident. Most people won't even notice you are breastfeeding - try practising in front of a mirror at home.