Breastfeeding
Most mums choose to breast feed their little ones and the Department of Health recommend that babies be breastfed for at least six months.
So why breastfeed?
• Breastfeeding provides a lot of nutrition to the baby and helps reduce the risk of infections.
• Breastfeeding reduces the risk of cot death.
• Breastfeeding provides lots of health benefits to you.
• It's free.
• It's available whenever and wherever your baby needs a feed.
• It's the right temperature.
You might find breastfeeding strange or difficult at first, but remember that there is lots of support out there. Ask your midwife to put you in touch with a teenage pregnancy midwife and teenage support group, which will be able to share lots of ideas with you.
Other mums decide not to breastfeed and choose to use formula. When using formula it is important to have a sterilized bottle and teat. Boil the water, allow it to cool to about 70°C and then add the powder. Make sure you follow the instructions on preparing the formula (as they all differ) to help you feed your baby properly. UNICEF has produced an easy guide to bottle feeding.
Whichever method you choose you should wait until your baby is six months until introducing solids.
It is always best to speak to your midwife or health visitor for further information on their suggestions for you and your baby. You can also read and watch more about breastfeeding on the NHS website