So the big day arrives.

Nine months of preparation, worry, wondering what it's going to be like, all about to be blown away when you hold your new born baby for the first time.

The sheer magic of a new born baby is indescribable and the love you feel towards them can't be summed up in just  a few words.  All you do know is that you want to love and protect this little bundle of joy.

Without a doubt breastfeeding is the most natural way to give  your baby the best start in life.  It also allows for you to bond with your baby in a cosy way.

The closeness you experience is wonderful and knowing that the breastmilk  will give your baby all the nutrients they need for the first six months of life and help protect them from infection and diseases is a big reassurance.

But what you don't always get told is that for some mums this can be a very easy and natural process and they have no problem starting straight away.

For others it can take a bit of time and patience to get it right.  It's not as natural a connection as it can seem.  So don't get disheartened.

Each mum who has breastfed their child will have their own unique story.  And sometimes you may find that one child responds really well and another doesn't.

So if you can't breastfeed or can only manage a very short time, what do you do then?

You will probably get lots of advice from friends and family as to what type of milk, bottles and cleaning equipment to buy.  At the end of the day make sure it suits your baby,  you and of course your budget.