Lack of information causes many breast-feeding mothers to fall at the first fence, says Genevieve Becker.

"Babies go through growth spurts at different phases - 10 days, three weeks, three months - at those times it can seem like they are endlessly hungry. If a mother doesn't know about these phases, she can feel like a failure and give up. If she knows, she can get through those periods with confidence."

Lack of familiarity with the practice of breast-feeding leads to poor technique, which can lead to nipple soreness. Instead of correcting the problem, mothers try to stick it out until it becomes unbearable and they have to stop. Margaret McGuigan of La Leche League urges mothers to get help with their technique as soon as problems start. "If the infant is latching on properly sore nipples will heal quickly," she says.

Fear that the infant is not getting enough food causes many mothers to introduce a bottle. The baby never seems to be satisfied. "This is what newborns are like," say Maureen McGuigan. "If they are producing wet and dirty nappies regularly, then they are usually fine. Babies who don't look to feed often are the ones to worry about."

Fear that the mother cannot produce enough milk. Apart from very exceptional circumstances, the mother's body will always produce enough milk for her infant as long as feeding is demand led.

Conflicting advice. We have lost our base of knowledge about breast-feeding in this country, so even experienced health professionals can get it wrong. Gather as much information as you can before the baby is born, and you'll be better able to assess the advice you are given. If you're puzzled by someone's advice, get a second and third opinion.

Lack of contact with other breast-feeding mothers. No amount of medical advice can replace the learning that parents share. There are breast-feeding support groups all over the country.

Who to call. Paula Gahan, breast-feeding tutor with the Irish Childbirth Trust recommends gathering support from wherever it is available. It's a good idea to find out about breast-feeding before you try it, and to attend at least one support group meeting before giving birth.

Contact Cuidiu, The National Childbirth Trust, at (01) 872 4501, or log on to www.cuidiu-ict.ie

Look up the La Leche League in your local telephone directory and contact the branch near you.

Get in touch with you local public health clinic and find out about breast-feeding support meetings in your area.

Ask your GP about local support groups. Ask in the maternity hospital for a list of contact numbers.