This past week was National Breastfeeding Week. If you have been following me for awhile, you know that I am a huge advocate for Breastfeeding, and have always felt that "breast is best" for your infant. This year seems to be the year of the baby as there are lots of expectant Mom's out there (including myself). I have lots of friends expecting this year, or have already given birth.
Nursing, regardless of the numerous health studies surrounding it, still remains to be a controversial subject not only in our culture but among friends and family as well. Questions on how long to nurse, should I nurse, pump or not to pump, how am I going to nurse, and to nurse in public or not, are all things you worry and ponder before the birth of your child. There is no clear cut answer to any of those questions as majority of the answers are on an individual basis. The biggest advice for success, especially for breast feeding, is to persevere, and don't give up. Don't be afraid to get advice, try new things and consult a lactation consultant. If you are having a baby in 2012, your insurance company will be required to cover a lactation consultant through your health insurance coverage. -Great news in support of nursing mothers.
Nursing is a wonderful way to spend precious moments with your baby and set up a lifestyle of healthy choices for their future. Not to mention ease your job in parenting: no bottles to fix, no formula to buy, it's affordable and it's ready when they are. Don't be afraid to ask for help, and do your research and educate yourself. There are tons of pages on the web in support of breastfeeding. Arm yourself with family and friends that will support and encourage you and don't listen to the naysayers. When it comes to babies, everyone has their own opinions and experiences and not all can be positive! And if you do try and try again and find that it just doesn't work for some reason or another, don't feel guilty if you gave it your best effort! Either way, your baby will thank for it!
Here are some links to help with questions, and problems:
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