KYLIE HEYWOOD, 20 FROM THE LITTLE HULTON AND MUM
TO KYRAN

Kylie lives in Little Hulton with her 4 month-old son Kyran. Before giving birth to Kyran, Kylie was studying to be a fitness instructor and lifeguard but is now working towards a career in the police force. In preperation for her new career, Kylie has been put through her paces on a number of challenging courses.

Please explain why you’ve chosen to breastfeed?
It’s best for my baby. I want to give Kyran the best start possible. My body knows what he needs and, as his mum, I can make sure he is getting all the nutrients and vitamins to help him grow and be healthy.

What did the people around you think of your decision to breastfeed - eg partner, parents, friends, family?
My partner has been really supportive and he’s very proud of the fact that I’m feeding Kyran with my own milk. I had a lot of support from my midwife, which was really useful. I’ve had quite a few health problems - mastitis, an abscess and thrush – that has made it really difficult for me to feed. The support I’ve received has been very important to keep me going despite my illnesses. In the end I got to the point where it was impossible to feed Kyran directly from the breast. Rather than giving up and putting him on formula, I’m now feeding with expressed milk.

What general advice would you give to expectant mums considering breastfeeding?
The bottom line is that it is best for your baby. I know people who have bottle-fed and their babies are more unsettled. Babies seem more content when they are breastfed. It’s important to look after yourself as well as your baby. Get advice from your doctor about how to stay healthy yourself – take vitamins and make sure you eat well.

If you ever think about giving up because it gets too difficult, just look at your baby – how well he is growing and how content he is – for me, this made everything worthwhile. If things aren’t going smoothly, try lots of different things. You don’t have to do it strictly by the book and don’t be afraid to stand your ground if other people are encouraging you to bottle feed, it’s your baby and your decision.

What advice would you give to mums whose partner/friends/parents disapprove of breastfeeding?
Remember that it’s your choice. You have to do what’s best for your baby and if your partner is not supporting you, you have think about whether he’s the
right man.