Some of our members have shared their experiences below - hopefully you will find these interesting and of use!

If you wish to add you own experience please PM Lisa

Just a story to make people see that breastfeeding isn't always the hardship that its made out to be!

After a 30 ish hour labour Sophie was born, and from that moment untill now (she is nearly 17 months old) I have breastfed her sucessfully.
We actually didn't have any problems, infact Sophie would not drink from a bottle.
Now im about to go back to work part time so Sophie is going to go to nursery and hopefully she wont miss me and my boobies TOO much! I feel shes at an age now where she doesn't NEED my milk. If anyone has any questions for me, Ill be pleased to answer them

The summary is give breastfeeding a go, even if you mix feed to start with or mix throughout.
Use NIPPLE SHIELDS if you want - or at least try them - they should come free in bounty packs ffs!! You will hear all sorts about them but ASK any MW or HV who says they are a bit dodgy, can alter production, cause nipple confusion etc. if they actually have ANY experience of them or know of anyone who has - because more often than not it is just hearsay!
I can't believe new mummies aren't given more confidence and told that it is fine to just find your own way with feeding - you don't have to pick or be black and white, try alternating with formula to get through the first few days until milk comes in your boobs, throw in a bit of expressing along the way, see what works for you and baby.

xxx