I've decided to BF and am a little uncomfortable with it. What can I do to become more condifdent?

Christina - posted on 04/12/2010

If there is a breastfeeding class in your area I'd suggest taking that before the baby is born. We had a lot of latching issues with my daughter and I got some very bad advice from the nurses in the hospital. Thankfully some lactation consultants came by and helped me out, but it was still a struggle for a couple of months.



My daughter is 15 months old now and I'm pregnant again. I'm still BFing her, but plan on taking the class anyway this time.



Also get a fun nursing cover. Something big enough to keep all the parts covered when the baby starts throwing arms and legs around. Also something that won't make you too warm in the summer. Get a fun pattern or color. Even get some good nursing tank tops or shirts before hand.

Amy - posted on 04/12/2010

I read this whole book whilst on bed rest {BELOW}... you are about to embark on the most amazing thing EVER. education gives confidence good luck! I would recommend taking time out to learn it really is a lot harder than you might think... my husband milked cows for a living and he had so much advice but everyones husband wasn't a dairy farmer! :) funny fact .anyway good luck you'll be in my thoughts as you start this journey it's super fun learning! HEre is the name of the book: The Womanly Art of BREASTFEEDING BY LE LECHE LEAUGE I was super confident and the first night my baby latched... I really think it was due to education... some prayer too ;) have so much fun Brooke! Congrats to you!

Carrie - posted on 04/12/2010

I have 4 children all breastfed. I was 19 when I had my first. My tips are, wear a tank top under everything. You pull the tank top down and the top shirt up to nurse. I used dressing rooms when out of the house with my first, but by the time I had my second, I was walking and nursing in the mall with a blanket over my shoulder. Buy a shield. They are a few dollars in the baby section just incase you have a hardtime. The other thing is, if you really want to nurse, make sure the delivery nurses know that and respect your decision. I've heard many nurses encourage formula because it's easier. Thats not really true and if you give them formula before 4 weeks, your baby might have a harder time latching on and it will slow your milk production. hope this helps too :)

Becky - posted on 04/12/2010

Everyone is uncomfortable with with something that is new to them. With time you will grow to enjoy this time. Do not be discourged through the first couple weeks. It can be painfull though not for everyone. Make sure you have a great support team( including daddy) There are many products out there that will help ease the process as well. Good luck and remeber what a wonderful gift you are giving your little one!

Brittanie - posted on 04/12/2010

I had my first baby at 17.. It was wierd at first bf'ing in front of my teenage friends. But you know what? I knew I was doing what was ABSOLUTE best for my baby.. And that's what gave me all the confidence I needed. ;)

Heather - posted on 04/12/2010

BF in a place that you would never or in front of someone you would never. When your baby is hungery you won't care where you are. try not to bring a bottle out with you. and have a cover with you. I have BFed for almost one year, and my son was 7 weeks early, so any and all BM was helping him leave sooner from the hospital. At age 25 i have always chosen BM over formula and now I will be stoping on his first birthday.

Laura - posted on 04/12/2010

I had some concerns too when I began breastfeeding my son. No one in my family BF, so I was kind of on my own to get things started. I would suggest asking your nurse or midwife for a nipple guard when you start. It can be painful and stressful, so try nipple cream (Dr. Jack's) and the guard to help build your confidence. It is true what "Maria" said, once you get that skin-to-skin contact with your baby you will immediately feel a bond that will push all those insecurities & worries away. I definintely recommend sticking with it, even when you're at your wits end, because it honestly gets easier. My son is 4 months old and I have no problems with BF anymore.



Good luck -- you'll do great!

Shannon - posted on 04/12/2010

practice, practice. i BF'd both my children and it took about 2 weeks to become really comfortable with it. Best advice: if you are in pain after 5 days or so, call a lactation consultant for advice. Both my children had raised pallets in their mouth that make me have to adjust the latch on in order to not be extrememly painful for me. DO NOT WAIT!! If you are in pain, call an expert for help and they'll help you find the best latch for you and your child. Best money I ever spent (and it wasn't that expensive.)

In the end, if you simply cannot get used to it, it isn't the end of the world if you decide not to do it. i feel that you have to be comfortable for it to be a rewarding experience for both you and your child.

Ketrina - posted on 04/11/2010

Fight thru!! Hold yourself up high. It is so much easier than bottles and our kids will have processed foods the rest of their lives lets start them out right. I would research and think of the advantages. I would never second guess them. I would endure the rock hard boobs for the first week out of the hospital. Let me keep it real. I would shed every tear necessary. I would try again and again as the lactation nurse held my boob and put it in my babies mouth as I cringed in my tummy but knew in my heart this would be worth it. After you get thru all of this, you wont want to stop! You can do it!!!

Jemma - posted on 04/11/2010

Try visiting breastfeeding mums nearer your own age.I'm 27 currrentlyfeeding no2 ( 9 weeks) I bfed my 3 yr old for 20 months as did a number of my friends. The first couple of weeks are a learning process for you and baby, spend time with supportive people esp during the nighttime feeds when you are tired and gradually build to feeding in front of other people. Give it a chance and within no time you will be ok to feed in public. One tip is to find a cafe with a booth that you can sit in to feed. Don't give up - although the early stages can be challenging it is easier in the long run. I found it a confidence boostto have the midwifeweigh my babies regularly as you can see them gaining weight. Also try lalecheleague - google it - might be one in your area. Good Luck:)

Erica - posted on 04/11/2010

find a le leache leauge or other support group in your area and start going now, dont wait until your having problem, not that you will but being around other women who are bfing helps make it normal, sence we dont see a lot of it in our everyday(prebaby) lives. I was lucky to have an older sister, mother and friends bfing in my life but even then having a group of moms to lean on and say yes ive made the right choice helped sooooo much- good luck, and remember we want to give our babies the BEST in life, not the back up(formula)

Stephanie - posted on 04/11/2010

I felt that way too before my daughter was born but once she was born and they set her on my chest and I breastfed for the first time, all my concerns went out the window. You're doing the right thing by breastfeeding and it's completely normal to have these worries. Goodluck!

Shawn - posted on 04/11/2010

Also, I totally agree with Angela about getting a nursing cover. They have a neck strap to hold it on, and the one I got has a rib at the top where the strap connects to make it easier to keep track of baby underneath. Ebay has some great ones made by stay at home moms. After nursing both of my kids for over a year it makes it more comfortable for everyone.

Shawn - posted on 04/11/2010

First of all, you have to make the decision for yourself that you will persist through the trials of the first few weeks. Breastfeeding is the most wonderful thing, but also after two children of my own [one who is still nursing at 12 months] I would say it is one of the hardest things I have done. My first really struggled to get latched on correctly and I was chapped and bleeding for the first month until we got her straightened out. she was also underweight and I am grateful I had a more relaxed doctor at the time who gave us the time we needed to get her on track instead of stressing about her weight.

Unfortunately by then my supply was going down so I had to take herbs and tinctures and pump to get it back up. She nursed for 13 months and did well.



My second child was bigger and a natural childbirth, unlike his sister who had to suffer through the epidural drugs with me. I am convinced natural childbirth helped him connect with me right away. He came out of the womb and latched right on. He was a good nurser right away and while I had some tenderness for the first month a little lanolin cream was all I needed to be comfortable.



My recommendation to you would be first of all don't worry about what other people think. You are doing what is best for your baby and it isn't anyone else's business.



Second find a good support network of other newer mommies with nursing experience, and a good lactation specialist and when the baby comes really focus on nursing the first few days.



Last, for the first ten days nurse on demand. Especially at night as your milk is best then and the baby will want to nurse every hour or two. That is NORMAL and I didn't know that with my first one. You won't start to get onto a regular nursing schedule for a month or so so don't try as it will only stress you both out.



Hang in there and post to the board if you need help or support once the baby comes.

Jennifer - posted on 04/11/2010

I was uncomfortable at first, but I was 100% set on it, so I stuck it out through the beginning. You have to set your mind on it though. I had a hard time at first, but I just talked with other Moms that breastfed and went to them for support. If you can stick it out through the first couple weeks, it gets a lot easier and you'll love the closeness you'll get with your baby. If your partner is supportive it makes a huge difference too. I couldn't "flip the switch" between baby time and Daddy time so it made it really weird at first so my husband hasn't been allowed to do much with them for the last 8 months, but he's perfectly OK with that since it's best for our baby. I just gave him some information that compared breast milk and formula so he understood the benefits, and also through in the cost difference, and he was on board! Good luck!

Krystale - posted on 04/11/2010

Your confindence will grow the very first time you bf. Its magical... and you will get more and more comfortable with it the more you do it.

i was terrified when we decided to bf our third child! i bottle fed the first two so i knew it was going to be a hurdle for me but something worth while. When i had my baby girl the nurse came in and said to go ahead and feed the baby when she comes in and bla bla then they left me alone with her. My doctor said the nurses would be a lot of help and there i was starring at my hungry child going omg now what? I had no idea what i was doing. I paged the nurse and waited in anticipation(an hour later i realized they forgot me and i paged again). They finally came in and i was so embarrassed! They looked at me and were so confused.. one nurse thought I had already fed my daughter in the nursery (mistaken identity) the other assumed with this being my third i knew what i as doing, not the case! But they walked me through it step step and showed me how she should latch and the dos and don't s. When she latched i instantly started crying! it was the most amazing feeling that i wouldn't trade for the world!

However, walking in blindfolded also meant I had no idea what else to expect.. it hurts bad until your milk comes in. I almost gave up several times, but once you stick it out and get through the first few weeks.. its wonderful!

More advice.. BUY NURSING TOPS lots of them start buying them now! it makes it so much easier even if you just wear them around the house. I do suggest pumping when you can. I have never breastfed in public and really have no desire to. i am a behind closed doors woman and that intimacy of bf i prefer to keep at home.

Nicole - posted on 04/11/2010

Breastfeeding is the best for your baby (keep that as your goal) and you should become more comfortable with it the more you do it. Don't give up because the first few weeks are difficult. When your nipples dry out and get painful around week 2, Lanisoh Lanolin works wonders! Don't worry about being embarassed either, with kids you need to get used to that. Best wishes!

Sammi - posted on 04/11/2010

I wasnt too comfortable with the idea of BFing either to begin with..

Funnily enough i found myself expressing for the first 2wks all day and all night to keep a good milk supply established for my boy as he ended up in NICU.

I always thought it was a good idea, but not really for me.

Yet when he was born, i didnt care!! It became something i felt i just had to do.

You will be surprised how comfortable people will make you feel.

Alex - posted on 04/11/2010

Perhaps when you go out in public you could express some breast milk and take it with you to start with until you get more confident. I always take a muslin wrap with me when I go out so I can pop it over my breast and bubs to cover up but baby can still breath. Also a lot of shopping centres have family toilet facilities that have breast feeding booths where you can feed in private.

Michelle - posted on 04/10/2010

Educate yourself! Trust me, it is the best thing you can do! Of course the benefits of breastfeeding are many, but read about the breastfeeding process and possible complications. For example, the different positions you can nurse your child with, or information on pumping and storing your milk. Also, it would be helpful to know common problems moms have with breastfeedings, like clogged milk ducts and such and how to remedy them. I say this because educating myself on all aspects of breastfeedings has helped me tremendously, including being more confident about it. :)

Xaviera - posted on 04/10/2010

the best thing to do will to be to keep your mind off of how you're going to feel or how it will feel. Have patience. THe baby and you will build a beautiful bond and its a beautiful thing. Think about how your baby will feel to be close to you and how he or she will be able to touch your skin. Baby needs this bond because you have to know that its important for babies to feel comfortable and safe. Make it fun. While you're breastfeeding the baby distract yourself with different things. Take a cold sweet drink with you, give baby a message while you're not using the other hand and just stare at your baby in the eyes. You wont feel uncomfortable. Let me know if you need moral support I'll be here for whatever else you want to know.

Tori - posted on 04/10/2010

I think the biggest thing is to figure out what about breastfeeding you are uncomfortable with. I knew I wanted to breastfeed my daughter the second I found out I was pregnant it was just how would it work. When we were in the hospital she came out hungry and within 15 minutes of being stitched up they had me feeding her. The nurses were so helpful on how to hold her and how to get her to latch on and my second day before we got discharged they send a lactation nurse to answer any questions we had. My daughter was jaundice and kept falling asleep so they gave us tips for everything possible. It is painful the first week or so but it's just because its something new your body hasn't done. Get a nursing cover or just blankets work. I would have one draped over my shoulder over my daughters head and then once she was on I would drape on over the rest of her body so that no matter what angle nobody could see. It is the best for your child but if your uncomfortable don't let somebody pressure you into it. It could lead to worse things. A friend of mine was pushed by her mother in law to breast feed and she hated it and it was a horrible experience for her that she wound up suffering from post partum depression

Rachel - posted on 04/10/2010

Im 20 years old and breastfeed my daughter...and no one I know breastfed their babies except for my family, so people would ask me uncomfortable questions about it and act like I was dumb for doing it, but I knew it was best for her and I love BF'ing now, I love the bond we have and I love not having to make a bottle in the middle of the night!

Joanna - posted on 04/10/2010

I've been breastfeeding for the past 8 months, and I love it. I'm also 23, so I do believe I can understand how you're feeling.
Before my daughter was born, though, I knew I wanted to bf, but I wasn't comfortable with what my breasts started doing. They started leaking (just a little bit) every day before dd came, and that was sooo strange for me.
It was important for me to talk to other women, like what you're doing. Others were able to reassure me that I was doing what's best, and that it's completely normal to feel "odd" about it. Good luck with everything. Once baby is in your arms, you may feel frustrated at times, but in the end, it will be amazing!

Alissa - posted on 04/10/2010

Just remember that it's about you and what's best for your little one!! Those that seem to have problems with it are not educated on the benefits and missed out on a wonderfull bonding experience with their children! If you have any BF'ing groups near you I strongly suggest going especailly at first when you are still learning!

Ashley - posted on 04/10/2010

At first I thought it might be strange or feel uncomfortable, but as soon as I started breastfeeding my daughter it just came so natural to me and I knew that I was her food and it's the best thing for her. I've now been breastfeeding her for just over 12 months now about 4-6 times a day. I think it will come natural like motherly intuition.

Carrie - posted on 04/10/2010

Find other people - either in real life or online - who are breastfeeding too. We all feel more comfortable with a buddy and a bit of positive support!

Nicole - posted on 04/10/2010

It takes awhile sometimes to "get comfortable". I felt it took about 3 weeks to evan feel somewhat ok with it. I started attending Lelache meetings and met some good friends and it was a comfortable place to nurse and receive support! Good Luck and it is the best thing for you and your baby.

Victoria - posted on 04/10/2010

BREAST IS THE BEST !!!!!!!!!!
I'm 24 years old I was uncomfortable with breastfeeding at first who isn't it's werid at the start but then you get so close with your newborn it's so much better for them and you. I can go on and on saying all the great things But at the end it's how you feel try if you don't like it don't but try

Krysta - posted on 04/10/2010

Don't give up. Ask for help from lactation consultants.

Kathlea - posted on 04/10/2010

don't be afraid to breastfeed your baby, just think it's for your baby's own good that he can have a good nutrition..your breasts might hurt in few weeks but just try BFing in the right position and correct latching on so the babay won't be latching on yor nipple only..at first i was afraid but i just think of my baby..

Ashley - posted on 04/10/2010

I was uncomfortable for a while doing it, especially in public. always felt like people would look at me in a negative light, like it was inconvenient for me to be sitting there or something. then one day i sat down at, of all places, walmart and not just one but three woman told me how wonderful it was and how they breast fed all of their kids one woman even sat down to join me. i felt empowered! and added bonus i pack a change of cloths and a few diapers and a small pack of wipes in my purse for quick trips. no bottle, powdered formula or water needed! stuck in the car without water handy no problem! and of course my nursing shall goes every where with me. i hope you love it as much as i grew to! good luck!

Charlee - posted on 04/09/2010

I think breastfeeding is one of the best things you can do for your baby, and congrats on making the decision to do so! I have had quite a few of my friends not BF at all, and the concept to me was crazy. I personally was only able to BF for the first two months, but I also had to go back to work a lot sooner than expected and my job doesn't exactly leave me a whole lot of time to pump (convenience store, we don't get breaks, working from 6 am-2pm means I get up at 3am to get ready, get my daughter up, feed & clothe her, not to mention try to pump). But the time that I did get to BF was the best! You have this great connection with your baby, and you get the satisfaction of knowing that YOU are the one giving your child what he or she needs to live. As for advice, don't worry about what other people think. Some people feel like BF is not something that you should do in public, but when your child is hungry, there isn't always someplace to go. A blanket works fine, but they also have covers for mommies on-the-go. I personally didn't really care after awhile, I figure if they don't want to see me do it, then they don't have to look. If you know ahead of time that you will be away from the house, you can always pump, and most pumps now come with a little cooler-type storage with ice packs so you can keep it cool. Some hot water works fine to heat it up. I got a lot of use out of the Playtex VentAire Advanced bottles, the wider bottles have nipples specifically shaped to be more like a mothers breast, and they help prevent nipple confusion. They also have tiny holes at the bottom of the bottle that flow air in from the bottom of the bottle, rather than letting it in from the top, which really helps with gas. Of course, I wouldn't use a bottle until you and baby are both completely comfortable with breastfeeding. Also, a Boppy is AMAZING. Not only can you use it while you're BFing, but you can set your baby in it to play on the floor, either on their back or tummy. Stay calm. Your baby will be able to tell if you're frustrated or upset, so just remember to chill and take your time. Your baby will get what he or she needs, its all a matter of working together and finding out what works for you. When my daughter was first born, I had to hold her in the football hold in order to get her to latch, but once we both got the hang of it, I was able to hold her the way I was more comfortable. Lamaze class will help teach you a lot of things, and there is usually a nurse that is there that can help you learn how to help your baby get latched on. And if for the first few days, the baby doesn't seem hungry, don't freak. Babies don't need that much food when they're first born, they don't know how to be hungry. You're not going to starve your baby, and as long as they're eating a little bit, they're fine. And remember, BFing doesn't work for everyone. Some people don't let down milk normally, or really just can't grasp being comfortable with it. That DOES NOT make you a bad person. I felt terrible for having to stop BFing, but I had to realize that I had to go back to work in order to support my daughter, and she has turned out fine. Yes, BFing is the best way to build their immune system, but there is only so much we super mommies can do. Best of luck!

Tricia - posted on 04/09/2010

Breastfeeding is such an incredible experience. Because it's the unknown for first-timers, and can seem a bit strange, it is so much easier than bottle-feeding. You never have to buy formula (if you choose to nurse exclusively), you never have to wash bottles, you don't have to pack a giant diaper bag full of formula feeding essentials....the list goes on and on. BUT besides how much more convenient it is, it is such an amazingly beautiful experience, once you and baby get the hang of it. You bond in a way that just isn't easy to explain until you do it. Feeling that you are giving your child all of his nutrition, growing him/her, sustaining his/her life; it is truly incredible. And the time you get to be with them, doing something that's so intimate and something only YOU can do. It's a really wonderful thing. It can be difficult in the beginning, but only if you let it. Seek support! The La Leche League is a great resource, as well as the lactation consultants at the hospital (or birthing center, or your doula if that's your birth plan). Read, read, read! And take the breastfeeding class that most birthing centers and hospitals offer. I kept lanolin on-hand, and nursed on demand, so my son ate a lot, especially at the beginning. But that's okay; you want to build your milk supply as much as you can. Ask for help if you need it; too many moms don't, and then end up giving up because they feel helpless and exhausted. Don't be scared. It's a beautiful and fulfilling experience, and it is one of the best things about being a mom: sharing the experience of nurturing your child in only a way that YOU can. I plan on breastfeeding all of my future children for as long as they'd like.

Stephanie - posted on 04/09/2010

You can be more confident by knowing that you are giving your child the best.The best bonding experience ,the best nutrition,the best dental and jaw development,the best immunity to illness and the best for you both for cleanliness and convenience.Not to mention it is cheaper always fresh,always the right temperature and has health benefits for you too to cut your chances of breast cancer.When you know all of these things and someone asks you why or gives you a look....you will know that you are a damn good Mom look them straight in the eye and list your reasons with confidence.Thats what breasts are really for after all .My best advice would be to stick with it.It hurts in the beginning..but is sooo worth it later.You can take a tylenol and it also helps to get a bath with a little teatree oil in the water then air dry your nipples or use a hair dryer on cool setting and get some sun on them too.this will prevent yeast from forming and will cause less soreness and cracking.If you do get cracks or it is super painful use a nipple shield for a few days and use all purpose nipple ointment.Here is the link for it http://www.nbci.ca/index.php?option=com_...
I just got my doctor to look it up online and she wrote out the prescription for me.It REALLY works better than anything else I tried.The site also has great info and tips and videos for BF moms that may help you with getting a good latch to prevent problem...I hope this helps.Good luck Brooke

Krystal - posted on 04/09/2010

I didn't breastfeed my first son but am exclusively BF my 2nd. It is sooo different and if I could go back I would do it for my first. I quit with my first after just a couple of days because of the pain but I wasn't prepared for it at all!! I did no research and didn''t know anyone who had bf-ed so I gave up.

My number one tip would be sweet oil. I was told about this in a bfing class before we had the baby and bought a bottle to bring to the hospital with us. You can find it in the pharmacy area with the ear ache stuff. It has been an ABSOLUTE lifesaver. I put it on the first time my son nursed and everysingle time after that until I started to toughen up. Now I only use it everyonce in a while and usually only after pumping (that still irritates me some cause I don't do it much). The great thing about this oil is that it is a scentless, tasteless, all natural oil that you do not have to wipe off before the next time you nurse (you are suppose to wipe off lanolin cream). It keeps your nipples moist and keeps them from cracking. One time I did crack and bled (I didn't feel it and didn't even realize until he spit up and it was pink!) I did use a lanolin cream to help heal this but that is the only time I have had to use that. Plus this is much cheaper than that cream. You can also use it around the rim of the cups on a pump to help the seal btw your breast and the cup. It's not a miracle oil, you will still have pain, but i believe it greatly diminishes it and also diminishes how long it takes you to toughen up.... believe me!!!

Janis - posted on 04/09/2010

Well it depends why you are uncomfortable. Why would you be? If it is lack of education, read about it and talk to other breastfeeding moms. The best reading material I found was a tiny book, "Nursing the first two months" it came with a Medeal breast pump. You can also take a class, WIC provides a free one. It is not that good, but it is a start. Hospitals usually provide one, but you have to pay. The best way to learn is to just do it...remember it is natural. You will be surprised how easy it comes to you.

Tosha - posted on 04/09/2010

It is important to know that BF isn't always easy. It is something that you and your baby have to learn. Get in contact with your local La Leche League and start talking to a lactation consultant. She should be able to help you with your concerns and provide any help you need after your baby is born. Best of luck to you.

Fiona - posted on 04/09/2010

Hi Brooke, wow look at your replies you've had, I bet you are overwhelmed with them all! I didn't read all of them but one piece of advice that I was never given and wish I was told before my bub was born is if you're going to breastfeed you may have to watch what you eat because it can cause Colic in your baby. Dairy & Wheat are the biggest culprits. I stopped eating cheese and switched to a lactose free milk and the difference I saw in my son was amazing! He doesn't pull his legs up to his chest and cry whilst feeding anymore. So if your baby seems unsettled it may be colic, try to cut down on dairy & wheat from your diet and see if there is a difference. My son has been sleeping right through the night (8hrs) since he was about 8 weeks old and since he was 13 weeks old he's been getting 10hrs. Good Luck!

Megan - posted on 04/09/2010

i was a lil uncomfortable at first as well, just think it is the best thing for your baby and that it is a wonderful bonding experience! now there are many things out there to help with the comfort level, nursing raps and pumps along with lactation consultants if you are unsure of how to feed! also now at alot of malls and baby s r us there are mothers rooms for more privacy!

Brooke - posted on 04/09/2010

Well, I am a young mother also. I had my baby when I was 20 and I still breastfed for a year!! I am very proud of myself because I understand all of the benefits for both myself and my baby. First of all, breastfed babies are generally healthier than forumula babies. My daughter was NEVER sick during her first year!! They are also usually leaner and have lower rates of obesity later on in life. As for mommy, it helps shed pregnancy pounds like CRAZY!!! I lost all of my pregnancy weight in 2 weeks (no joke!), granted I was overweight before I got pregnant, so Im still not skinny LOL. Also, NO PERIODS while breastfeeding, but that doesn't mean you can't get pregnant, because in rare cases, you can! Also, its FREE and soooo convenient!! Formula is about $15-20 a can, depending on the brand and that can add up!! Also, no preparation is needed, just lift your shirt and it is exactly at the right temp and always available! I know that it might seem awkward at first, because face it, until baby comes, breasts are only used as sexual objects!! But, once you see your beautiful baby for the first time, you will understand that it is YOUR job to nourish your baby with the best food possible... breastmilk!!! Don't feel bad if you are unable to for any reason, formula is not bad at all. My daughter is on a toddler formula now, since I have quit nursing about a month ago!! But trust me, breastfeeding was waaaay more convenient!! God luck to you and your beautiful bundle of joy!!! =)

Lisa - posted on 04/09/2010

contact your local La leche league. They were my supposrt when no one else was there to help-I attended meetings even before my baby was born. I also purchased a nursing cover, I lov ethe bebe au lait brand I go form the internet. It helped me to be decreet especially in the beginning when I couldn;t do it wihtout fulling exposing myself and still needing to be able to peek in and see what the baby was doing. The fisrt couple weeks will seem sooo tough, but stick wiht it you will be so glad you did.

Cherri - posted on 04/09/2010

is there a certain reason why u r uncomfortable with it? I personally love to breastfeed. and i am 23 years old. I do have to tell u that is a very dedicated job. so if you do not have the time you may wnt to rethnk it. It makes you feel much closer to ur baby. They r more calm and content throughout the day i have noticed...and this is kinda funny but u will start to notice how good ur baby smells. i always thought that formula fed babies stunk so very badly. lol!!

Kimrose - posted on 04/09/2010

First, GOOD for you for sounding so sure of it being best for your baby! I'm still caught off guard at the lack of knowledge when I hear someone say "formula is even better - it's got all this stuff in it that breastmilk doesn't." WOW. I felt much as you do before my son was born - I knew I'd nurse no matter what for his well being, but couldn't help but wonder how I'd feel, since actually feeding someone from your body is simply a foreign concept before you experience it. That said, we ended up being in the rare "extended nursing" group (for this country anyway.) My son never took a bottle and I had decided to "self-wean" which he didn't want to do for a very long time ;} I wouldn't give up the bond you get from nursing for ANYTHING. It is such a gift to know that you've given your child the BEST start and to watch them grow and thrive and know it's only because of what they're getting from you. It's very empowering as a mother - and I think nature knew what it was doing - there's a reason a mother has to stop what they're doing to nurse - bonding. My son was sick less than anyone we knew and grew into an independent, social little boy. I think just you're "wanting to" is a huge part - your baby will help you - seriously - you'll feel "in it together" as you start. One thing I always wish all mothers knew (myself included when I was there!) - no "stage" lasts - the whole thing changes. There will be times when you feel like "all you do is nurse." (Growth spurts.) Or maybe you'll be sore in the beginning, etc. It all CHANGES and becomes much more easier and NATURAL. Before you know it you can be in any position, etc. Also, my son did sleep with us, so night nursing was MUCH easier/nicer in my opinion. Another thing is that I'm as modest as they come - but when you're in public and your baby needs to eat - well, you realize you're a "MOM" - I was as discreet as possible, but remember once or twice feeling like "Give me a break" and not caring AT ALL if someone across from me looked at the "bump under the blanket" as if they wondered - it really seemed pathetic to me that anyone would care or not "get it" - MOST people I ever encountered would smile and avert their eyes if they realized - in polite "good for you" fashion. ;} GOOD LUCK TO YOU - what a lucky baby you have already for you to seek out strength re: nursing to do the best job possible - I bet you'll be amazing! :)

Tamrha - posted on 04/09/2010

Do you know the benefits to breastfeeding? Not only to your baby, but for YOU? Its ok to be uncomfortable... and no one says that you need to sit in front of a crowd and feed your child. :) This can be a very private matter if that's what you want/ need.
I really do recommend pinpointing what about this makes you uncomfortable and seeing how you can either resolve or deal with the issue. Also, go to a local La Leche Meeting in your area. They welcome epectant moms! And it would be nice for you to develop a community of supportive women who can give you advice before and after the birth.
Try and pick up a book caled The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding as well. Its a LLL book and I hear its wonderful. I'm still nursing my 3.5 year old, and I nursed my 5 year old until he was about 16 months old (he stopped when Iwas pregnant... I think he disliked the milk as it began to change back to colostrum ) and its been one of the best experiences of my life!

Claire - posted on 04/09/2010

The best way to start you off is to have yourbaby delivered on to you so you can have immediate skin to skin contact and then have your midwife help you with your first feed. Once you get going you wont care what people think. To get used to breast feeding I just let it all hang outfor the first few days and just went with the flow. I was never able to breast feed in really public places without being uncomfortable mainly due to others, but I am determined to overcome this next time :-) I breast fed for 9 months in the end and loved it although we did have a tough timeof it about 6 weeks in I am so glad that i did it now and it is absolutely the best thing for you both so give it go - good luck X

Linnea - posted on 04/09/2010

Most important thing you can do is take a class to learn the ins and outs, then commit yourself to persevere no matter what, and try to just make it through the first 6 wks or so which can be tough - its a time of learning for both mom and baby but if you make it past the beginning it is smooth sailing (for the most part)! Practice makes perfect - surround yourself with women who breastfeed and take a class, then just do it! :)

Caroline - posted on 04/09/2010

Seems like you've had a lot of responses, but I just want to mention that it would be great to visit with a La Leche League group. I even went twice while I was pregnant to get a chance to sort of observe and hear about some things to help our breastfeeding go smoothly. You can look them up online and find a group near you: www.llli.org

Good luck and enjoy nursing your baby!

Bernadette - posted on 04/09/2010

Try to attend a breastfeeding classes before giving birth. And get help from the nurses and/or lactaction specialists at the hospital. It may feel uncomfortable and/or painful for a few weeks, but it DOES get better and you just know that you are doing what is completely natural and best for your baby. Good Luck!

Joanna - posted on 04/09/2010

I was a little uncomfortable when I started too. I'm the first person in my circle of friends and family to have a baby so it seemed like it would be awkward and I had doubts about doing it at all. But when I brought my baby home I knew what I wanted to do. He had a bad reaction to the formula at the hospital and the first few days he was home, and that just encouraged me more. With my mom's help we started perfectly. He's ten months now and while he doesn't nurse as often - he likes to eat! - he still does at night and when he's tired. Nursing your baby will be good for bonding you and your little one.