by Virginia L. Allen

Created on: April 25, 2009

Breast feeding has been resurrected! Once seen as an antiquated practice, thousands of women are now opting for breast over bottle. However, although a beautiful thing, breastfeeding can be quite daunting to for the first-time breast-feeder.

Therefore, for all you first-time breastfeeding moms, here are a few tips that just might make the transition from delivery, to breastfeeding, go smoothly.

* Enlist The Help of A Lactation Consultant.

Contrary to popular belief, breastfeeding at times, does not come as naturally for some mothers than for others. Therefore, to keep both mom and baby's frustration level down, enlist the help of a lactation consultant.

Most maternity nursing staff will inquire whether or not you will be bottle feeding or breastfeeding. Once it has been determined that you will be breastfeeding, a lactation consultant will be at your service if you so choose.

In addition to allaying any fears and concerns you may have, a lactation consultant will instruct you on everything from correct and incorrect latching, correct and incorrect positioning of baby, signs that baby is getting enough to eat, to proper care of your breast. Her services will be available to you outside the hospital as well.

* Don't Get Discouraged.

Even with the help of a lactation consultant, some moms still find breastfeeding extremely difficult. Nevertheless, don't give up! Being aware of all the benefits to both you and baby, should serve as the catalyst that will keep you going.

* Get Encouragement.

Sadly, there will be some who will not agree with your decision to breastfeed. Unknowingly, they may say things that are extremely discouraging.

Therefore, find a support group -whether it be friends or family, or an outside breastfeeding support group. Do whatever you can to keep the experience positive for you and baby.

* Purchase A Boppy Pillow.

Especially for those breastfeeding moms who've delivered via Cesarean, using a boppy pillow will make breast feeding so much easier. Not only will it protect your stomach, but it will give your baby additional support to enable proper latching. In addition, it allows for perfect support for baby.

* Choose Your Birth Control Wisely.

Birth control pills that contain a combination of estrogen and progestin are not recommended since they can effect mom's milk production, and affect growth and development in baby. Birth control pills that only contain progestin are safer.

* Offer Both Breast At Each Feeding.

Most; if not every; baby seems to favor one

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