Everyone knows breast is best. There is no argument, but what if (for some medical reason) you can’t breastfeed? With all the pressures placed on new mums and even mums-to-be, it can be a daunting time without the added pressure of the breast versus bottle decision. I placed a lot of pressure on myself to breastfeed, for many reasons, and was pleased to have made it to almost six months. It was not easy – it was something my baby and I had to learn together because, no matter what people say, it is not something that comes naturally to all new mums and babies. I was in agony for most of that time, and it felt like no sooner had we got it right then it all fell apart. But I was glad to have made it so far and give my baby the best start in life.

When we all (me, daddy and baby) made the decision to go bottle, I didn’t feel any guilt or shame. We quickly got used to the sterilising and carting around of bottles, and it did give others to share in the bonding experience of feeding a baby – starting down into your new child’s eyes is a wonderful thing that should be shared. If you can’t breastfeed, bottle is the next best thing!