Breastfeeding 101 - Nursing Note From Raelynn

"The Confidence to Breastfeed"

Breastfeeding is one of the best gifts you can give you child. Breast milk is developed specifically for your baby and contains all the "goodies" that will help him grow and thrive. Breast milk contains the perfect balance of fat, sugar, water, and protein that is needed for a baby's growth and most babies find it easier to digest breast milk than they do formula. The anitbodies your baby will receive are among the greatest benefits and will protect them from bacteria and viruses. The benefits of breastfeeding are endless!

Even though breastfeeding may come naturally to many moms, for others it can be a difficult time. A majority of moms are blessed to have everything fall into place perfectly and never have to worry about things such as having a baby latch correctly. However, some of us meet up with these unforeseen problems and in return spend a lot of time stressed out and in tears. Many of us have been there and didn't have the "perfect" nursling who just settles down at the breast and latches like a champ. It can be a rocky road in the beginning but stick through it because the rewards are so great!

Getting through the first six to eight weeks can be the most difficult time. If possible, prepare yourself for breastfeeding before baby is born. Attend a breastfeeding class, talk to other breastfeeding mothers by attending a local LLL meeting, or read articles and books to empower yourself with as much information as possible. After the birth of your baby, make sure to invite the hospital's Lactation Consultant into your room to make sure everything is going well.

If you find that when you return home you are still encountering problems, contact an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC (http://www.iblce.org/). Their knowledge and advice can be priceless during the difficult times. Sometimes all you need is a boost of confidence and other times you may need some intervention from an IBCLC.

The most important thing to remember is to reach out! Many mothers quit breastfeeding early on because they can't find the support and encouragement they need. Many of today's new mothers are children or grandchildren of the post-WWII formula generation and that means our mothers and grandmothers didn't breastfeed. Sometimes finding a supportive family member is not the problem but finding one who can actually help you in a sticky situation can be difficult, as they never breastfed their children. Another idea is to visit an online breastfeeding message board. Many women there are going through or have gone through similar situations. Message boards give you a way to connect with moms all over the globe who can offer you support and advice.

As a new mom myself who had a difficult time breastfeeding, I am telling you it is worth it! There were days I didn't know if we would be able to make it through. My heart told me breastfeeding what was right for me and my daughter. Despite the trials, I was stubborn enough to seek support and continue. Soon I felt like a breastfeeding pro!

Breastfeeding may seem to be the natural choice but may not always "feel" natural. Don't let this article discourage you. Most mothers find breastfeeding to be very easy right from the get go. Even if you don't, soon you will come to trust yourself and your body! Your babies smile and healthy glow will encourage you to keep up your great work. Whatever you decide, just give breastfeeding a chance! In the end, you will figure out what is right for you and baby. Even if you find out breastfeeding isn't right for you, every drop of breast milk you were able to give your little one was worth its weight in gold!

Breastfeeding Resources

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