Statistics suggest more likely to breast-feed your baby if you've hit 30, are black or stayed in full-time education until you were 19 or older.

But research suggests lots of women would like to try breast-feeding their babies, but can feel put off by a lack of information and the attitudes of others.

They can also feel worried that breast-feeding will be too difficult for them.

All this week, Women's Health in South Tyneside (Whist) and South Tyneside Primary Care Trust (PCT) will be working with pregnant women to provide information about breast-feeding.

Corrine Devine, a volunteer support worker at Whist, gave birth to her daughter last year and breast-fed, even when she returned to work.

She added: "It felt a very special thing to be able to do for Lily, and there were lots of benefits you don't always know about beforehand.

"When you breast-feed, your body releases a hormone that helps combat tiredness. That definitely is a bonus in those early months.

"I also noticed Lily was never ill compared to other babies I knew and hardly needed winding after a feed.

"Although it is a big commitment to breast-feed, I enjoyed it and really found it hard to stop."

Whist is holding two special events tomorrow at 10am and Thursday at 1pm at the Mile End Road centre, South Shields.

They will give pregnant women the chance to have their questions answered and offer support and encouragement without piling on pressure.

Mrs Devine added: "We just want people to come along and find out about it. It may not be for them, but at least they have been given the option.

"So many people are interested but put off by other people's comments or attitudes.

"We're just asking people to come down and see what it's all about. It is also an opportunity to meet other women who might give you support once your baby has arrived.

"Breast-feeding gives your baby all the nutrients they need for the first six months of life.