KIM SWALES, 23, FROM SCARBOROUGH WITH 5-MONTH-OLD BABY MOLLY

Kim lives in Scarborough with her daughter, Molly. Before she became a mum, Kim was working full-time as a nurse. Now that Molly is a little older, Kim plans to return to work full-time, in January 2010. Outside of work, Kim likes to keep fit at the gym, go shopping and catch up with her friends.

Please explain why you’ve chosen to breastfeed?
I made the decision at the start of my pregnancy. I really wanted to try it as it’s best for me and my baby. It’s free, and very rewarding. There’s no hassle of making bottles, Molly is getting everything she needs, straight from me.

What did the people around you think of your decision to breastfeed - eg partner, parents, friends, family?
My partner wanted me to breastfeed and all my family and friends were very supportive regarding my decision. I wanted to at least give it a try.

What general advice would you give to expectant mums considering breastfeeding?
Be patient, the first couple of days can be hard, but hang on in there. I had no problems after the first week and it’s been so worth it!

What advice would you give to mums whose partner/friends/parents disapprove of breastfeeding?
To at least give it a go and look at all the benefits. Keep your options open. It’s giving your baby the best possible start in life.

Do you think that there are any drawbacks to breastfeeding? If so, what are they?
Not really. I was a bit worried at first, when I breastfed Molly in public places, but now that I have experience it can be so discreet that nobody even knows that I’m feeding.

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 spoke to my midwife and asked family members that I knew had breastfed themselves. I also got lots of information from my pregnancy books.