Breastfeeding IS best for your baby – but there are GOOD reasons why some mums struggle

EVERY parent wants to give their baby the best start in life.

And among the first things that a mum can do for her little one, is to nourish their newborn by breastfeeding, protecting them against nasty infections and diseases.

The NHS recommends new mums breastfeed their newborns for the first six months, exclusively.

But, their guidelines state breast milk should form a part of a baby's life "for the first two years, or for as long as you and your baby want".

The health benefits for both mum and tot are reinforced by countless scientific studies.

But, with the best will in the world, some mums struggle to breastfeed, and as a result do have to rely on formula feeding.

Here, we look at the facts around breastfeeding and some of the common problems some mums will encounter.

WHY IS BREASTFEEDING SO BENEFICIAL?

Breastfeeding has far-reaching health benefits for babies, and also for mums.

Breast milk contains unique protection against infections, disease and studies suggest it can help prevent childhood obesity.

Bridget Halnan, infant feeding lead in Cambridgeshire and fellow of the Institute of Health Visiting, said: "Any amount of breast milk has a positive effect.

"The longer you breastfeed, the longer the protection lasts and the greater the benefits.

"Formula milk doesn't provide the same protection from illness and doesn't give you any of the health benefits."

In babies, breast milk reduces the risk of a host of illnesses, including diarrhoea and vomiting bugs, sudden infant death syndrome, childhood leukaemia, type 2 diabetes, obesity and heart disease in adulthood, the .

And, breastfeeding also has benefits for new mums.

The process of making breast milk can help protect a woman from breast and ovarian cancers, osteoporosis or weak bones, heart disease and obesity, helping to burn around 500 calories a day.

COMMON PROBLEMS

Though it is one of the most natural things on earth, and what the female body was designed to do, some mums struggle to breastfeed their babies.

Despite their best efforts, it can prove difficult, and leave a new mum feeling distressed - which is ultimately not good for their new arrival.

If a new mum encounters problems, they should seek help from their midwife, health visitor or a breastfeeding specialist as soon as possible.

Here, we reveal some common problems mums face, and tips on how to remedy them, according to the NHS.

1. Sore or cracked nipples

Three to seven days into breastfeeding is the most common time to encounter painful, cracked nipples.

It can happen because your baby isn't positioned or attached in the best way.

It's important to seek help, because while it may seem a small thing, putting up with it could make the pain and discomfort worse.

2. Not enough milk

It is a common concern among new mums that they are not producing enough milk for their newborn.

And, while it is hard to judge, there are signs to watch for if you're worried.

Zoe Ralph, an infant feeding worker and fellow of the Institute of Health Visiting, said: "Your baby will generally let you know, but wet and dirty nappies are a good indication, as well as hearing your baby swallow."

If you're unsure, offering your baby both breasts and alternating between which one you start with, can help stimulate your milk supply.

3. Breast engorgement

This is when your breasts get too full of milk, and as a result can feel tight, hard and sore.

Engorgement is most common in the early days when it can take a few days for your milk supply to match your baby's demand.

And it can also happen when you are weaning your baby, as you feed less frequently.

4. Tongue tie

Around four to 11 per cent of newborns will suffer tongue tie.

This is where the strip of skin that attaches the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too short, and as a result a baby can struggle to move their tongue.

While some babies are unfazed, others won't be able to breastfeed.

Tongue tie is simple to rectify, and requires a quick and painless procedure. In some parts of the UK it is available on the NHS, while in others it isn't.

5. Blocked milk duct

If breast engorgement continues it can cause a blocked milk duct - causing a small, tender lump.

Frequent feeding can help to ease the blockage.

6. Mastitis

Inflammation of the breast, or mastitis, happens when a blocked milk duct isn't relieved and gets worse.

It can make the breast feel hot and painful and can trigger flu-like symptoms.

Mums should try and continue to breastfeed, but if it gets no better in 12 to 24 hours or if you feel worse seek the advise of your GP.

7. Breast abscess

If mastitis isn't treated - or fails to respond to treatment - it can lead to a breast abscess.

In many cases, an op is needed to drain the abscess.

8. Thrush

A mum's nipples can become cracked and damaged, which in turn can lead to thrush.

That is if the candida fungus, that triggers the infection, is able to get into your breast or nipple via a crack or sore.

It is possible for a baby to catch the infection too, while feeding.

Signs in babies include white spots or patches on the tongue, gums or roof of the mouth, your baby being unsettled while feeding, a white film on their lips and nappy rash that won't clear.

If you suspect you, or your baby has thrush, visit your GP, who will be able to prescribe treatment.