Hey! Are You Breastfeeding?

I’ll admit it – I have the urge to ask this question whenever I run into a pregnant woman or a new Mom.  Not because I have intentions on being all militant and key her car in the parking lot for choosing to formula feed, but because I have this overwhelming urge to help everyone.  I see these women and immediately want to hook them up for breastfeeding success.  It’s more of a blessing than a curse, if you ask me!

When I do have the chance to sit down and talk to someone about nursing, I tend to tell them …

• There’s a wide variety of normal.  Each nursing experience is as unique and different as the people involved.  Do not let other people’s stories influence this decision-making process!
• Support is not just recommended, but necessary, for a successful breastfeeding relationship.  A partner that understands, an encouraging lactation professional, even being around and learning from other nursing women, can be the difference between 6 weeks and 6 months.
• Read a book specifically about breastfeeding.  Not only will it give you the ammunition to face common issues (like how to recognize a clogged duct and what a good latch looks like), you’ll have a better understanding of how lactation works and the benefits that come along with it.
• Nurse on demand!  A newborn baby needs to nurse approximately 10-12 times a day those first few weeks.  This helps establish supply and makes sure that your baby’s needs are met.  

Also?  Breathe.  There’s no right or wrong way to do this.  Take things one day at a time and celebrate the wonderful little person you’ve brought into the world.  Don’t be afraid to ask the questions you want to ask or find the help you need.  A little bit of confidence and knowledge can go a long way!    

Katie Lacer is the Mom of two young boys (Calloway & Ari) and wife to a geeky husband.  When she's not writing about boobs, she's writing about ... boobs.  She's currently certifying as a childbirth and breastfeeding educator while maintaining her personal blog, MommaKT, and enjoying the life as a social networking guru & blogging for online nursingwear retailer, MilkSmartMama.  

Thanks to Katie for being a guest blogger this week!