Do you all think breastmilk should be considered as a basic human need and therefore all babies should be breastfed expect where there is a medical condition such as HIV were breastmilk might not be the best option.

HI Tambu and welcome to ThinkBaby.

No, I think breastfeeding is by far preferable but it doesn't work for everyone, and the best way to feed a baby is one that leaves both mother and baby content. As you asked for opinions, I think being militant about breastfeeding is counter-productive.

Yes but there is always the option of expresing and giving baby expressed breastmilk. What do you think.

When my mum was pregnant with me she got a book 'Breast is Best' and swore by it - she has now passed the book onto me and although it was written over 20 years ago and thankfully attitudes have changed (i.e. it's alot easier to breastfeed now and have your baby close to you in hospital) the advice is still relavent and it maintains that virtually all women can breast feed if they really want to and if they get the right support.

There's no doubt in my mind that breast is best, but through this forum I have learnt just how hard breastfeeding can be and it still seems that healthcare professionals can't always give the advice needed by new mums or that some new mums don't have the support around them to manage to breastfeed sucessfully.

I have to say I agree with Scribbler on this one - we all know that breastfeeding is the ideal, but women shouldn't be made to feel like a failure if it's just not right for them.

Sarah

p.s I'll let you know how I get on with the breastfeeding when the baby's born in November - am very determined and have my mum and auntie (who have both breastfed all their children successfully) for support, so fingers crossed!

Hi you guys
I had two wonderful experiences with breastfeeding with my son and daughter. I lost weight and felt really bonded with my kids, despite having to have an operation when my son was 4 weeks old, due to an absess on my right breast, and having to go through crack-nipple hell all over again with my little girl!
HOWEVER, I really do feel that women who can't b/f easily or at all are really made to feel guilty and I believe it's better to have open discussions about the options rather than the 'formula doesn't exist' stance of some parenting pressure groups!