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LITTLE-KNOWN BREASTFEEDING FACTS

Every new mother wants what is best for her baby. Since breast milk has been proven unequivocally to be the best nutrition for babies, breastfeeding is the clear choice for every mother who is physically able to do so. However, just because breastfeeding is a natural, instinctive desire for new moms, it is not always easy. Here are a few things I wish I had known before I gave birth and began breastfeeding my daughter.

BREASTFEEDING HURTS!

No matter what the books or lactation consultants may tell you, breastfeeding can be quite painful in the beginning. I had read every breastfeeding book written on the subject, talked with numerous consultants and nurses, and even took a breastfeeding for beginners class. Preparation helped me to a certain degree, but most of these sources led me to believe that breastfeeding was pain-free. Despite the fact that my daughter latched on properly and suckled correctly, I still winced with pain each time she fed for the first several weeks.

Do not let this scare you away from breastfeeding! The reason I mention the pain is not to deter you in any way, but rather to prepare you so that you don't get discouraged if and when it happens to you. Lanolin creams and lotions should be used liberally to prevent your nipples from chapping or cracking, and this can help quite a bit.

The pain does not last, and this is the most crucial piece of information I can pass on. Since I had been under the impression that breastfeeding was not supposed to hurt, I was extremely disheartened when I experienced it quite differently. If someone had told me to be prepared for the initial weeks of pain and discomfort, I would have fared much better.

BREASTFEEDING IS AN ALL-DAY AFFAIR

During the first several months of your newborn's life, be prepared to feel as if you are breastfeeding 24/7. There would be times my husband would bring my crying daughter to me, announcing; "She's hungry," when I would simply stare at him in an unbelieving daze. Regaining my senses, I would shake my head and reply; "She just ate!"

That scenario replayed itself over and over before I finally tired of arguing and would just sigh and lift my shirt as my husband handed me my squalling infant. Some mothers may tell you that babies only eat every three or four hours, and perhaps you will be one of those lucky ones. In my experience, my daughter ate every two hours like clockwork. However, do not be mistaken into thinking this gave me a reprieve during

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