You are happy that your baby latches on successfully. How you love breastfeeding her! However, don't panic, if you encounter the following problems within six weeks of starting to nurse. These problems are quite common.

• Aching nipples
• Engorgement - your breasts are overfull
• Mastitis - it's a breast infection

Call your doctor, if any of the above problems are hindering your normal breastfeeding process, especially mastitis.

Do Not Lose Heart

Don't get disheartened, if you find it a bit hard to learn breastfeeding. You are not alone with this problem. At times, you may feel weighed down by the constant demands of your baby in the beginning. If you feel you can't cope, take professional help or call an international board-certified lactation consultant (IBCLC). These specialists will observe you breastfeeding your baby and then give you advice.

Baby food

Breast milk is the best food for the baby for the first six months. There is no need to give her juice, water, and other foods during this time. Your milk is sufficient for your baby's healthy growth and development.

After six months, your baby may develop new tastes and you may start to give her baby food. Remember; DO NOT REPLACE BREASTFEEDING WTH BABY FOOD. THE LATTER SHOULD ONLY COMPLEMENT YOUR MILK. After a year, you can introduce variety and volume to the solid diet. Let your milk remain as an addition now.

THE MOST IMPORTANT QUESTION - How Long Should You Breastfeed Your Baby?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), you should continue to breastfeed your baby for at least a year. After that, it depends on your wish. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends breastfeeding for 2 years and more.

Breastfeeding develops a unique bond between the mother and her baby. Hence, don't hesitate to breastfeed your baby for 2 or 3 years. There is no such food as mother's milk in this world - so pure; so full of love!