The answer is not shouting how great breastfeeding is or how "harmful" formula is.

The realities of breastfeeding and how we can better support mothers with Dr Eliza Hannam, GP & Lactation Consultant.

Image via @Loewe

Formula is a dirty word in baby-friendly hospitals and requires a four-digit passcode, secret handshake and, in some cases, a signed waiver that states the hospital is not responsible for your child's future health due to your decision to give your starving and shrieking newborn the devil's drink – but what alternative do we have? All this antagonism for an approved substance that is safe for consumption and, let's not forget, the only widely and readily available food source for infants. 

How we feed our children is deeply personal, at times political and a subject that is always part of a public debate. It is not a decision made by logic or practicality alone. It's led by emotion and, quite frankly, should not divide or define us. Each year, as World Breastfeeding Week rolls around, I can't help but feel slightly saddened. Sad that my journey didn't go to plan. Sad that others are shamed for their decision to breastfeed or not to breastfeed, and sad that we are deflec…