SHELLEY TATE, 16 FROM DONCASTER AND MUM TO ELISIA
Shelley lives in Doncaster with her 14 week-old daughter Elisia. Before she became a mum Shelley was studying at college. She returned to her studies in January and now expresses her milk for Elisia.
Please explain why you’ve chosen to breastfeed?
I thought it would be better for my baby. I made the decision to breastfeed as soon as I found out that I was pregnant.
What did the people around you think of your decision to breastfeed - eg partner, parents, friends, family?
They were all very proud of me, everyone supported my decision.
What general advice would you give to expectant mums considering breastfeeding?
It does hurt at first but it gets your figure back in shape, the discomfort goes and it really helps you bond with your baby a lot more. It really is the best thing that you can do!
Do you think that there are any drawbacks to breastfeeding? If so, what are they?
The pain, but it goes. There’s also a bit of a lack of understanding and acceptance about breastfeeding and there’s not always breastfeeding friendly spaces to go to breastfeed your baby.
Did you speak to anyone for advice or do any research about feeding, if so, who did you speak to/where did you look for information?
I talked to my mum! She was brilliant. I also talked to my Midwife, she gave me lots of practical advice and gave me a clearer picture of what was involved.
What advice would you give to mums whose partner/friends/parents disapprove of breastfeeding?
Do what’s best for your baby! There’s nothing wrong with it—it’s natural after all! Don’t be pressured by people to bottle-feed.
8 responses so far ↓
Shelley // Aug 22, 2009 at 3:39 pm
Thankyou so much for all your supportive comments, i really appreciate it and i hope this has helped some people. Thanks again
x
Alex // Aug 14, 2009 at 6:48 pm
Fantastic to see you showing such attitude in your picture and to hear your views. Doncaster needs more of you.
lisa // Jul 27, 2009 at 1:17 pm
Well done you!! You should be so proud of yourself for givin your baby the best possible start in life!! What a fantastic campaign.
Aireal // Jul 22, 2009 at 5:24 am
I just have to say you are really awesome for being so young and making the decision to breastfeed and stick with it. I am a young mom and I know how hard it can be. Keep up the good work!
laura adam // Jul 7, 2009 at 1:44 pm
Shelley, you’re amazing babe I’m so proud of you ! You look ace love……….love you lots xxxxx
Rebecca Heavey // Jul 7, 2009 at 1:13 pm
Thanks Shelley for highlighting breastfeeding, you are a real inspiration to us all!! Thank you and well done. I’m so proud of you! xxxx
Shelley // Jul 7, 2009 at 11:19 am
Well, i really enjoyed doing this campaign. I hope it will help and encourage alot of other young mums to breastfeed and to be proud of it!!! I think its bright and different and will defiantly catch alot of attention.
kristy mcgrath // Jul 7, 2009 at 10:53 am
awww thats lovely tht shell u both luk mint lol love you xxxxxxxxxxx
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