ABBI RUTTER, 20 FROM BOLTON AND MUM TO ZACK

Abbi Rutter or was brought up on Anglesey and now lives in Bolton with Zack her 4 month old son and her boyfriend. Before Abbi had Zack she worked at an advertising company, but doesn’t plan to return to work as the hours were inflexible. In her spare time, Abbi loves going for walks with her family, sells Avon and enjoys eating out. Abbi is also planning for her wedding which she is loving!

Why did you choose to breastfeed?
I had so much support from my mother, she went through all the highs and lows of breastfeeding (lows being the pain at the beginning) as she breastfed both me and my sister. She sat down with me with her edition of breast is best where I learnt so much. After reading breast is best, I realised there was no alternative to breast feeding, my child was going to have the best start in life because of me, that made me feel fantastic!

What did the people around you think of your decision to breastfeed?
Everyone was so supportive. My partner did feel left out at the beginning, but he learnt to adjust quickly.My friends on the other hand were very surprised as they bottle fed all there babies and they thought it very strange. But, once I sat down with them and talked to them about it they settled down. Some even said they would try it with the next ones.

What general advice would you give to those considering breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding is hard, there is no doubt about it, your nipples will chap and your baby is unforgiving. But it is for one week, maybe 10 days and then that’s it, and the bond you will have with your baby is indescribable. Not to mention how quickly you will drop that baby weight.After two weeks of having my son I was back to my original weight, and the great thing was that I could eat whatever I wanted to.Breastfeeding is a chance to give your baby the best start in life, don’t deprive him of that.

What advice would you give to those who disapprove of breastfeeding?
Ask them why they do not approve. I have a friend going through the same problem; her mother thinks breastfeeding is disgusting. But she has me, and I keep reminding her how it is best for her and the baby.If people at home are not supporting you, you should go to your nearest breast feeding support group, there are plenty of people there who will help you and not let you give up without a fight.