Young Colne mum leads the way with breastfeeding advice

6:56pm Monday 12th May 2008

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A YOUNG mum is backing breastfeeding services across East Lancashire by becoming a role model to new mothers.

Michelle Bromley, 23, of Colne, has appeared dressed up as a pop singer - while feeding her baby - on eye-catching posters to promote breastfeeding throughout the area.

And she has now helped launch National Breastfeeding Week in Burnley, Accrington and Rawtenstall.

She was guest of honour at the launch events at the weekend, and chatted with mums about the benefits of breastfeeding - as well as dismissing some of the myths surrounding it.

Michelle breastfeeds her six-month-old daughter Naomi, and is a trained "Star Mum" to give talks and training to others.

She said support through the East Lancashire Primary Care Trust had helped her though the process - and said she wished the services had been available when she had her first child, George, now three.

She said: "We have had some really good reactions from people who want to find out more about the benefits and the support available.

"There are a lot of old wives' tales around breastfeeding - a lot of mums think they won't have enough milk, which is a complete myth, and some of them worry that their breasts aren't big enough, which again isn't true - anyone can do it.

"When I had George, I breastfed him for about three weeks, so he did get the initial essential nutrients, but I found it really difficult and I couldn't carry on with it, but if I'd known then what I do now, I would definitely have been able to keep it up for longer.

"The support groups are really important because everyone can share their experiences."

Health bosses in both East Lancashire and Blackburn with Darwen are targeting young white mothers in particular, after studies showed they were the least likely to breast feed, often because of concerns over body image.

By using mums like Michelle to promote breastfeeding, they are hoping to make it cool and fashionable. Michelle's poster appeared alongside ones featuring mums from other areas in East Lancashire, dressed as models and actresses.

Breastfeeding reduces risk of mums developing cancer, heart disease and osteoporosis in later life, as well as helping them lose that post-pregnancy bulge by using up to 500 calories per day.

It protects children by reducing incidences of infant illnesses like ear infections, tummy upsets and constipation, as well as reducing risks of longer-term conditions like eczema, diabetes and obesity.

A breastfeeding awareness seminar will be held tomorrow afternoon at the Clayton Learning Centre, off junction 7 of the M65, for employers from throughout East Lancashire. Places are still available - call 01254 772929 before 10.30am to book.