Breastfeeding Advice

The best advice I could give to new mothers is this…

* Arm yourself with knowledge. From books, the internet, doctors (who support breast feeding), lactation consultants, La Leche League, and support groups.
* Arm yourself with support. When everyone seems to be bottle feeding, surround yourself with mothers who are nursing. Go to a local La Leche League meeting, subscribe to an on-line e-mail list, find support groups in your area.
* Don’t give up. Give it 6 weeks. Everyone I’ve talked with all said the same thing: 6 weeks was when everything fell into place for them. Make establishing your nursing relationship with your newborn a priority. Get hubby or friends to help out with the other kids, household chores, and all. These first 6 weeks are so very important for you and your infant.
* And lastly, if you’re in pain, get checked by a doctor. It could be you have an infection or something medically wrong. I know when I was having all of my problems, I was told by everyone that the reason I had problems was because she was not latched on properly. It was always something I did wrong. Plus, on top of that I was feeling pressured from everyone to switch her to bottles. But it turned out I had a breast infection and I didn’t even realize. No one suggested going to the doctor, only that I must be doing something wrong. It is not always your or the baby’s fault. Don’t automatically assume it’s baby’s or your fault because nursing is so painful. Rule out medical problems first.