When I was expecting my first child, I was a very young and inexperienced future mother. The realization that I would soon be responsible for another living, breathing human being, terrified me. However, the moment I was told that I was expecting, I immediately fell in love with my son, Peter. I knew that I wanted the best for my son. I did some research on breastfeeding and it just made sense. My husband, Phil, and I decided that we would give it a try. Breastfeeding creates a mother/child bond that is incredibly strong. There is nothing like it. Your baby is counting on you, and you alone, for survival.
If it's at all possible, I highly recommend breastfeeding right after birth. Not only will this help to relax you and your newborn child, but it will help to strengthen that bond I was talking about. Another major benefit is the colostrum that your body produces. Colostrum contains antibodies that protect your baby from diseases. It has been proven that babies who are breastfed for at least 6 months are healthier than babies who are not. Breastfed babies are less likely to develop ear infections, respiratory illness and obesity. Breastfeeding also reduces the risks of developing breast and ovarian cancers in mothers. Breastfeeding burns 500 extra calories per day. Burning all those extra calories and the uterine contractions will help to get your body back in shape in no time. You will be saving bundles of money by not having to purchase formula. Your milk will be ready on demand, and always at the perfect temperature.
Everything that you eat or drink goes directly to your milk. Making wise food choices, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding caffeine, alcohol and cigarettes are highly recommended.
As a new mother, you may wonder whether or not you can continue nursing when the time comes to go back to work. Yes you can. Make sure you inform your employer ahead of time so she can make arrangements for you to have a clean, quiet room to pump your milk.
There are all types and styles of electric breast pumps. You can find a good one for as little as $50.00.
There are new, expectant mothers who fear that breastfeeding will be painful. For the vast majority of women, this is simply not true. There may be mild discomfort at first, when the baby first latches onto your nipple. When in the shower, gently rub your nipples with a wash cloth to toughen them up. Also make sure you have a moisturizing cream and plenty of nursing pads. This will help you to avoid cracking. I recommend changing your nursing pads every 2-3 hours or when needed.
You will find that when you relax, the baby relaxes and more milk is produced. It's best to nurse each side at least 15 minutes. When it comes time to nurse again, start on the side where you left off. I used to keep a safety pin attached to my bra, and pin the side where he or she left off. This was a great way to avoid any confusion.
Your baby should be able to go at least 2 hours between feedings. Breastfed babies normally take longer to begin sleeping through the night. The reason for this is that breast milk digests faster than formula. More than likely, you will find yourself waking up 2-3 times per night. It can be quite frustrating knowing that your husband can't do anything to help you, and you may wish that you had decided not to breastfeed after all. I'll share a secret with you. I used to keep a bassinet next to my side of the bed. When my baby boy or girl woke up, I would bring him or her to bed and nurse while I dozed. When my baby was finished, I put him or her back to bed. It worked beautifully, and I didn't feel so exhausted the next morning.
The maternity nurses were always a tremendous help to me. They gave me plenty of tips and encouragement. By the time I was giving birth to my youngest child, they were calling me "the expert." Knowing that she would be my last, I nursed Isabella for 26 months. My husband used to joke that I would be breastfeeding Isabella while she was getting her high school diploma. Weaning was a difficult time for both Isabella and myself, but we both got through it. My mother was visiting at the time, and helped to make the transition smoother.
If you still wonder whether or not breastfeeding is right for you, talk to your doctor or mid-wife. I'm sure they'll help steer you in the right direction.