Disclaimer

Breast is best

The best nutrition for babies is breastmilk. Each individual mum is entitled to make a decision as to whether they fully breastfeed their baby or not. However, once the decision has been made not to breastfeed, it can be difficult to reverse.

Breastfeeding is best for babies. Maternal nutrition requirements increase during breastfeeding. Before introducing infant formula, always seek professional advice, as once bottle feeding has been commenced it is difficult to reverse the decision. Partial bottle feeding may also adversely affect breastfeeding. Always use an infant formula as directed because improper use can affect the health of the infant. Always consider the social and financial implications before selecting a method of infant feeding.

If you are considering using infant formula, it is important to discuss with your midwife (LMC), well child/Tamariki Ora Nurse or Plunket Nurse or lactation consultant or GP.

Eyeing the calendar: how long should I breastfeed for?

The longer you breastfeed for the better but it's an individual choice for each mum-baby pair. Some mums are happy to breastfeed for more than a year, whereas other mums introduce formula sometime before 12 months. Experts recommend that you breastfeed for at least the first 6 months and up to a year or longer if you can, but it depends on your individual situation. It's important not to compare yourself with other mums and feel guilty for not making exactly the same decisions, do what's right for you and your baby.