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

Sharee - posted on 04/09/2010

oh yeah, and a lactation nurse!!! If you are in pain, ask the nurse to send for them, even if it's late... They helped me get the right latch and I only feel pain for a quick minute while he latches on, then nothing. (at first, for a week or so after you deliver, your uterus will contract while you bf, totally natural!)

Sharee - posted on 04/09/2010

3 things that really helped me... start using lanolin daily on your nipples about a week before your due date to help soften them as it helps prevent soreness and cracking. and... get a hooter hider or some kind of nursing cape to help you feel confident that you aren't flashing the world while nursing. and ... a boppy pillow for sure. The bonding you experience with your baby will take care of most of the rest of your uncomfortableness. Good luck and enjoy being the only person in the world who can give your baby exactly what he/she needs! It's awesome!

Jeramie - posted on 04/09/2010

You are lucky to have the support of your family. My grandmother, told me that nursing was only for poor or lazy women. Some people refuse to be educated. Just ignore them. Getting started was awkward, anyway. The nurse at the hospital gave me some really good tips, don't be afraid of asking questions.

Health benefits and bonding aside, here are some of the reasons I love breastfeeding:
-It is sooo EASY! you don't have to worry about sterilizing bottles, measuring amounts, getting the temperature right. Just lift up your shirt, and sit back and relax.
-Breastfed babies' poop does not smell much, and they poop less often because it is such an efficient fuel. Who likes changing lots of smelly diapers?
-you can get WAY more sleep by nursing in bed with your child. At night or taking daytime naps, just cuddle up to them and drift off...
-It is CHEAP. No buying bottles, pumps, formula, etc..
Think about these other less mentioned benefits when you consider switching.

Here's some things I learned the hard way: It felt waaay weird when I first began lactating. It happened when I was about 8 months pregnant, maybe before then. When my milk came in after the baby was born, I was surprised that my breasts were more like a sprinkler, and sprayed everywhere. That will lessen when your milk is regulated and you nurse less often. Keep a handkerchief with you when you nurse so when the baby pulls away you don't spray them and everything else. DON'T BUY DISPOSABLE NURSING PADS. THEY DON'T WORK except for short-term emergencies. You will leak right through them. The Gerber reusable pads you can get at places like target and walmart also do not work. they are too thin and small. Look for thick, all cotton pads, at least 4 inches wide. They also will not show as badly under your shirts. You may have to get them online. When milk dries on your shirts and bras, it stinks. soak it in cold water so it doesn't stain. You can buy a nursing cover if you want, but a baby blanket works just as well. Definitely get several nursing bras, but don't buy them until you are almost ready to pop, because your breasts will get bigger. you don't want to get the wrong size. The Motherhood Maternity store helped me find some really comfy sleeping bras too.

I am still nursing my 10 month old often. It is great, I have not spent a dime on bottles and several times a day I get to sit back and watch television while i feed my daughter. My grandmother was right. you can be poor and lazy and still breastfeed.

Beatriz - posted on 04/09/2010

ITS THE MOST NATURAL THING!!!

Andrea - posted on 04/09/2010

First, know this: after you go through childbirth, it will be hard to be embarassed about "exposing yourself" in public. i'm not saying to just whip it out anywhere anytime. go ahead and buy what they call a "hooter hider". :) they have them at some retail stores, baby stores, etc. (they're called nursing covers or hooter hiders) and practice with it. hold a pillow, and practice getting yourself comfy. for your first few days, while you're in the hospital, just be very clear about your privacy. also, don't be ashamed to be comfortable with people close to you--the baby's father, etc. it is the most wonderful and natural thing in the world to breastfeed. the bond it will create between you and your wee one is remarkable. please dont' miss out on this because you are uncomfortable. a friend of mine joined a group on facebook called "if breastfeeding makes you uncomfortable, put a blanket over YOUR head". don't let other people make you feel uncomfortable about doing something that is ABSOLUTELY the best thing you can do for your child.get the book "The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding". this will help you understand a lot of it before the baby is born. read it now. don't wait. also, if you are in the U.S. (don't know about other countries, but i suspect it's true there also) you will have lactation nurses to help you. just be clear to your nurses that you want to breastfeed and they will make sure to get him to you and help you with that.if they don't seem helpful, ask for someone else. also, remember this. it hurts. it IS the most natural thing in the world, but it's going to hurt at first. the first month can be kind of rough. you have to really want to do it, but i promise you, if you stick with it, it will be more rewarding than you could possible know right now. add me to your circle, if you want, and any time you have questions or think you can't do it, message me and i'll help you through it. do it!! you won't regret it!!

Francine - posted on 04/09/2010

My advice is to get your child used to a shawl or wrap early. I didn't and my daughter refuses to be covered while I am feeding her. Usually that is fine, I am with friends or able to go to a parents room, but sometimes (like at a park) that is more difficult and I have had to learn to just deal with the fact that I have my boob out in front of people :-)

I have never had any nasty comments or aggravation about it.

Just remember, if it hurts too much, there are nipple shields. They are silicone and they fit over your nipple. They relieve the pain, and they help if you are the wrong shape (as I was) or have inverted nipples.

Good luck. It is a wonderful feeling to be able to provide your child with the sustenance they require.

Iva - posted on 04/09/2010

Yes, it gets some time to get used to BF. But when you hold your baby the first time, when you feel the gentle touch of its tiny little fingers you will understand. First you have to name the reason/s you feel uncomfortable...

Jennifer - posted on 04/09/2010

You do not have to do it if you already don't feel comfortable with just the idea alone! Bottle feeding is not a bad thing at all, your baby will still get all the nourishment he/she needs, although breast milk is extremely good and is a natural taylor made milk perfect for your baby. Even if you just breastfeed for the first 3 days where your breast will be producing a yellow thick transparent substance called Colustrum, which is mostly an immune booster for your baby's digestive system and has everything to provide your baby with for a healthy start. I breastfed my daughter for 6 months and it was amazing! The moment they gave her to me I had this natural instinct, this urge to feed her... When this happens to you, you won't feel so uncomfortable any more. Besides, its a funny thing too... When your breasts belong to the baby, you don't care much about them being "sucked on" or even have family see them! It's more important feeding your baby than worrying about what everyone thinks. But if you do choose to breastfeed, let it be your own decision, and its something you are happy to do... coz either way, your baby will have everything he/she needs.

Good luck.

Kristi - posted on 04/08/2010

Way to go Brooke! Congratulations on this important decision for you and your baby's health. As a mom who has nursed both her babies, I can tell you for sure that the single-most important thing I ever did to be successful at nursing was to join a La Leche League group in my area. www.llli.org has resources for local meetings all over the world. I met fabulous group leaders and moms and dads who helped me overcome all of my insecurities and taught me over the years to be a very confident breastfeeding mom. You might have some challenges in the beginning, or later down the road, but I don't think you will ever regret your choice. Being around other nursing moms (and dads of nursing babies) really helped me get comfortable with breastfeeding generally. If you don't have a group in your area, try to find a mom's group in your area and ask other nursing moms for their support. Bet they will be happy to help! Try to attend some meetings BEFORE baby is born so you will know what to do when you deliver the baby. Take dad with you so he can support your breastfeeding efforts and feel a part of things. He will be a great advocate for you at the hospital when you are too tired to object to a nurse giving your baby formula. Make sure the hospital knows you do not want the baby to be given anything other than your milk no matter what. Make sure you get help with nursing challenges right away and don't wait or get frustrated. Most La Leche League leaders I know are happy to take a teary call in the middle of the night if it will help you keep nursing your baby. It takes most moms a few days before milk comes in and gets regulated. If you know this ahead of time you won't worry so much. Talk to other moms about what it feels like in the very beginning. It takes a little getting used to. You will want to make sure you understand how to get a good latch from your baby onto the breast so you're not sore and hating to nurse. It shouldn't hurt. Always nurse on demand, not on a schedule. Let the baby empty the whole breast, don't switch sides after a few minutes, so that he can get all the good fatty milk from the back of the breast. It will help him gain wait. Your pediatrician is not a god. Many are ill informed about breastfed babies, so consult more than one expert if your pediatrician advises you to stop nursing for ANY reason. These are just a few tips, but definitely sign up for La Leche League (LLL) if you can. It has been such a huge help when I was a stay home mom and when I worked and had to pump, and everywhere in between. Best wishes for a healthy birth and many beautiful nursing days ahead for you and your little one! xoxo

Melissa - posted on 04/08/2010

I can not tell you how amazing it really is to breast feed. It was one of the best experiences. It created such a special bond between me and my daughter. It is rough at first, but just like all things it takes patients and learning. Just remember to get the little one latch correctly, use lanolin cream when your nipples are sore, and relax. You wont be dissapointed, choosing to breast feed, I promise.

Aicha - posted on 04/08/2010

I would suggest contacting your local La Leche Club or calling the hospital were you will be birthing also your local wic office will have resources

Anna-marie - posted on 04/08/2010

When the time comes it will be the most beautiful thing you can do... i just love it.
i too, was a bit nervous, but when it happens, its amazing. you feel so womanly to be able to give your child exactly what he/she needs just from your body.
it is a wonderful experience.
all i can say, is make sure you get the latch properly, get the midwives to really show you how to do it.. if it hurts its not right.
i am so blesssed to be one of the lucky ladies who can and still BF after 5 months.
its such an intimate thing between me and my boy.. it is a very special moment
xx
all the best

Manda - posted on 04/08/2010

you shouldn't feel uncomfortable especially knowing it's best for your baby. im only 22 and have been breastfeeding for 10 weeks. i understand you feeling uncomfortable but i can assure you once you start (and have baby latched on properly) having that skin to skin contact and having baby gaze up at you while gaze back down at baby. my daughter rubs my back while i rub hers it is a truly amazing experience =) GOOD LUCK

Christa - posted on 04/08/2010

I was totally wierded out by it while I was pregnant. I thought boobs were for sex and the thought of my baby there was weird. However the second my first was born it just seemed normal. I didn't even think twice about it. It did take some time to learn how to do it properly so it didn't hurt. And I'll never forget the first time I had to do it in public, I couldn't get her latched and I leaked milk everywhere, it was a disaster! But once you get the hang of things it's SOOO EASY! I just had my second (7 wks) and we are smooth sailing. I highly recommend getting a boppy and a breastfeeding shawl. The boppy helps rest your arms, it's really great for those late night feedings. The shawl is good for when you are in public, blankets can fall off, especially when the baby is very new and not an expert latcher yet. Also I recommend the Babywise book. It helps get baby on a feeding/sleeping schedule so you can anticipate their feedings and you don't get caught in a situation where you are uncomfortable feeding them. Good Luck with everything!!

Maxine - posted on 04/08/2010

Persistence and Patience. It is supposed to be the most natural thing in the world but it can be very tiring hard work. Keep at it as it does get easier

Marihett - posted on 04/08/2010

firstly - there is nothing more healthy than your breast milk.
then there is the bonding, omg it's totally awesome!!!
babies love skin contact & they love to cuddle with you. i'm sure that once you start & you put all preconceived ideas aside, it will feel like the most natural thing to do.
it is the best thing for your baby.
i hope you find a way to make it work for both of you
good luck

Christine - posted on 04/08/2010

hey, i started breastfeeding when i was 19, and i loved it. i was uncomfortable to, didnt really breastfeed in public.it is hard to consider but i promise you, once you have your baba on your boob, you will never want to put them down.if your uncomfortable in public or in front of your family, go into a room where you feel most comfortable. try it first before you decide not to BF.its the most wonderful thing you can do for your child.

Jessie - posted on 04/08/2010

first, if you can find a breastfeeding class to take. sounds kind of like it would be odd and uncomfortable but it's really a good experience. no one is going to whip out their own breast to demonstrate other than on a video demonstrating nursing. and there are naked people in movies all the time so that really isn't any different. the breastfeeding moms group is a great place to learn how other moms deal with stuff. read up about it. make yourself as knowledgeable as possible. yes, people will look at you funny or try and tell you to stop of supplement with formula, blah blah blah. just believe in yourself you can do it. the 1st time my son had anything other than breastmilk was 5 months+ when we started trying baby foods. it WAS difficult and tiring and all-consuming for awhile, but it DOES get better. I'd say by 6 weeks it was the most natural thing in the world. even with my baby getting jaundice at 5 days old or us both getting painful yeast infections it was the best decisions I've ever made. He will be 9 months in a few days and we are still going strong! Don't let anyone get you down or try to convince you that you're not doing the very best thing for your child! (Because you ARE!)

Samantha - posted on 04/08/2010

Well think of it this way, breastfeeding is a great bonding experiance. It is also the best thing you can do for your little one. They askes me breast or bottle and before I could answer Trent was latched on. I was uncomfortable with it too. I mean for so long my breasts were used for only sexual reasons. Now I can tpicture them being used for that ever again.

Ashley - posted on 04/08/2010

Its not uncomfortable at all. I was 18 when my son was born and I breastfed him until he was 17 months. In july we are having baby #2 and I plan to do the same. Just make sure your comfortable. If that means asking people to not come over when your first home or nursing in a dressing room until your comfortable, go for it! Just saty relaxed and think of it as your personal time with baby, and yourself. Sometimes moms need support to breastfeed so ask friends or family to refrain from saying negative things about your breastfeeding. You can always join a La Leche League group in your area!
but dont let being younger stop you. show everyone what a proud and great mom you are. Only you can feed your baby and thats important! :)

Melanie - posted on 04/08/2010

Just rememeber that breastfeeding is a learned skill. Women are not born knowing exactly how to do it, but you will learn and it will become more comfortable. Decide it's what your going to do and you will make it work for you & your baby. Seek help from a certifited lactation consultant if you need it. Definitely take a breastfeeding class. Knowledge will boost your confidence too. Good luck!!

Katy - posted on 04/08/2010

I was uncomfortable for the first few days, but I ended up doing it over a year. It truly is worth it, I never breastfed in public. I'd always go to the car or some malls and stores have bathrooms suitable for it but I did do it in front of my mother in law, mom, and friends. It takes getting used to but after a while (around 2 months) it became as if my breasts were just that..breasts, not sexual things. They do get bigger and always make sure to wear a bra, just warning you as if you aren't careful they can get saggy after you stop.

Dawn - posted on 04/08/2010

Try to think that it is not about you...but about your baby. Your baby needs to get the antibodies from you and with all the sickness in the world, you will be glad you did. You will see many formula babies getting sick often (colds, flus, ear infections, baby eczema, asthma, food allergies, whooping cough, etc.)...and that could be you and your little one.
When your baby is sick...that is one of the most helpless situations you can go through. (Especially if they have to have IV's and be in the hospital.)
Well, I don't mean to scare you...or sound like doom and gloom...but just try to think that it is not about you...but it is about your baby. Good luck to you!

Heather - posted on 04/08/2010

To be honest...it is a little weird to think about, but try not to overthink it too much! I think that if it's something you really want, then just give it a try no matter what and then take it from there...our bodies were created as such that we have certain hormones that start pumping through us once our baby is born and that's where our "mama bear" instincts come from! Things that seem weird or gross (breastfeeding, spit up, picking boogers etc haha) today, will be no where near weird or gross once your beautiful baby is here! I successfully breastfed my 2 year old and am now breastfeeding my 7 month old! It's such a great bonding experience! Just give it a go and I'm sure it will come naturally to you! :) Good luck!

Kyle - posted on 04/08/2010

first i want to tell you it is not easy in the beginning. I made myself a promise that I would stick to it for at least 3 weeks with my son because I failed at it with my first child. Those will be the hardes and most uncomfortable. if you can get past three weeks it will be easy. with the bra thing, I wouldn't waist alot of money on maternity bras. I would get one or two and maybe a couple sports bras (they have some that zip up the front). after about six months of BFing i went back to my regular bras and just pop myself over the top of them. I would highly reccomend the Lansolin (i think thats how its spelled) cream for your nipples. it really help and keeps you from sticking to the pad and ripping yourself if you don't know your stuck to it. OUCH! not a good feeling. The nursing covors are good unless your child is like mine and likes to advertise to the world that he is eating lunch and wants to show off his meals. lol. I promise you will get more comfortable as you do it. my son is 13 months not and I am dreading the day he decides he is done.

Cori - posted on 04/08/2010

I always knew I would BF and I was still uncomfortable because I hadn't experienced it a lot around me. A lot of people told me it would be so hard. Even with my second one it felt uncomfortable getting into it again (my thought was "I'm going to attach this baby to me? seems so weird" and it was weird at first even the second time around). The first couple to several weeks can be painful and feel uncomfortable and clumbsy (but maybe not) and you get more comfortable the more you do it and after the first couple weeks it starts coming more naturally for both baby and mom. You get better at handling your baby and quickly transitioning to and from feeding time. It takes practice, like putting a bra on when you've already got your shirt on without revealing anything :) If you're uncomfortable about what others will think: Get the right blankets or covers and it will help. I got a nice cotton oversized recieving blanket (5x5ft) as a shower gift and it was wonderful. I also used a simple baby sling to carry my second and that made it easier in the grocery: I could just flip him to the side and put his blanket over him and keep shopping (handsfree! okay so that took a little longer to get used to. ) People would come up and talk to me and not even know what I was doing. People who did know still acted weird about it, but I just told myself that THEY were the ones with the problem not me, this decision was between me and my baby.



You know what -- besides all of the health benefits I found out that it was a lot easier than bottles (plenty of babysitting experience to compare with). You don't have to remember the formula, prepare formula, lug it around, have enough for the day out, keep it cool, find suitable water, warm it up, listen to a screaming baby while you're trying to get it ready at 3am. And your diaper bag and cupboards will be a lot simpler to organize.



It takes hands on experience to get comfortable with it. Happy baby, happy mama!

Stephanie - posted on 04/08/2010

It can be hard at times but just hang in there and it gets alot better.Good luck

Brandi - posted on 04/08/2010

DO NOT LET THEM GIVE THE BABY A BOTTLE OF ANYTHING!!! That can cause nipple confusion. You do not want that if you are trying to breastfeed.

Brandi - posted on 04/08/2010

I was the first one to breastfeed in my family. Everyone thought I was crazy. The more I educated myself on breastfeeding the more convinced I was about doing it no matter what. Knowing it's the best thing and really researching formula made me more comfortable. I didn't want that sinthetic stuff in my child not to mention all the health issues that come along with it. Alot of babies have to switch formulas constantly because they have reactions which cause alot stress on mom and baby. Alot of illnesses come along with formula too. Just do your research and you will get determind. I said I would breastfeed for 6 months, I ended up breastfeeding my first son for 15 months, my daughter 18 months, my second son 30 months and I am still nursing my 4th son at 12 months. Once you start breastfeeding it my be an effort for the first few wks. It's not completely easy at first, exspecially the first time. Be confident your body knows what it is doing. Getting involved in a local group like LLL can help with support. WIC offers Lactaion consulting. That saved my cousin. She had a lot of problems at first but with the right help and your Granny you can do it. It is completely natural. Try to limit as much as you can the interaction between the nurses at the hospital and your baby. The baby should be bonding with you not them. Make sure you tell them you want to nurse imediately after the baby is born. Success in nursing can sometimes rely on getting the baby to latch on within the first 30 min. Ask them to lay the baby on you right after the birth the emotion you feel will help the hormones kick in. After I breastfed two other new moms in my family breastfed their babies. Now its becoming the norm. I have breastfed 4 children, my cousin 2, and my other cousin 1 going on 2. I kinda broke the ice for our family I think. My last two I nursed at the same time. Tandam nursing, that was new. God Bless you on your journey to Motherhood, It is a wonderful journey.

Beatrice - posted on 04/08/2010

i was very uncomfortable myself but i guess everyone is when its your first time. all i can say to you is that my son took only the breast for 7 months straight. and it was the best 7months of being a mother. when he left it i almost cried cause i couldn't understand. i was still willing to but he did not want it any more. so just think of whats best for your child and every thing is going to be just fine. good luck

Dora - posted on 04/08/2010

I felt a little odd when I first started especially since most of my family didn't believe in it. I just decided to go with my gut instinct. I think it was the best decision I could have made for my son. Also to be honest with you it dfoes have it's perks like not having to go get a bottle in the middle of the night. Your babies food is right their for them and it is always at the perfect temperature....no heating and no testing to see if it is too hot. My advice is to breast feed in private in the beginning. Once you get comfortable then change your breast feeding habits unless being private is what you want to do. It all comes down to how you and your baby feel.

Bek - posted on 04/07/2010

Just try to relax and have a go! Start out in private, for sure. It takes a little while to get the hang of it (don't stress if you're still a few weeks in and still struggling), but get help if you need it, and just go for it!

Olivia - posted on 04/07/2010

Once you actually start, I think you'll love it. I DO! I didn't think I'd like it so much either...but its very convenient, especially at night LOL.

Jessica - posted on 04/07/2010

I'm 20 years old, so I consider myself pretty young. My baby, who is 6 months old, is exclusively breast fed and has been since birth. It will continue to be this way for at least another 3 months, maybe even 6. Then, we will do extended breast feeding for at least another 2 years!! Breast feeding is a beautiful thing and the more women who do it, the better!! I even nurse my baby in public, without a cover. It is probably the most liberating thing in the world. I don't understand how breast feeding can make someone feel uncomfortable, but that's just me. It's natural, so why should it make me feel uncomfortable? The idea of formula.... now THAT makes me feel uncomfortable! ha... I'm assuming you are still pregnant or looking to lactate after introducing formula....????

Jennifer - posted on 04/07/2010

Do you mean your mom didn't breast feed? I don't think it's a generational thing, I've met lots of young women who breast feed and some older moms who didn't.
The main thing to remember is that your breasts were made to feed babies primarily and they can do it if you let them.

Samantha - posted on 04/07/2010

Don't worry about other people and what they have to say about it!!! Just think of the benefits your child will receive and think of the bonding that comes from it! I was extremely uncomfortable with it at first and there were a few people who tried to talk me into switching my daughter to formula but I am so glad I stuck with it.

Kaya - posted on 04/07/2010

Its a little uncomfortable at first, it also may hurt if he/she doesnt latch on properly. Research as shown that breastfed babies are smarter and healthier. Once you keep tell yourself thats its natural and thats were your boobs are made for you will be a Pro! I have been breastfeeding since my son was born, now three months old and has yet to have an ear infection, or even the slightest cold. Just think your helping to build his/her immune system, while building there IQ at the same time. If that still doesnt convince you think of all the $$$$ you'll be saving not have to buy spending $25+ on formula every 2 wks!

-Hope this helps.

Tiffany - posted on 04/07/2010

I became a mommy at 18 and I was set on breastfeeding. I was a little uneasy once the time came though. My young non-mommy friends criticized, saying things like "I would never let a kid suck on my boob!", but it all came down to the health of my baby and I stuck with it. The first couple weeks were a little uncomfortable for me, kind of embarrassed. Once he learned to latch on well it was a breeze. So convenient in the middle of the night! I do not like nursing him in front of anyone and I don't like hiding in a room at a friend or family members house to nurse, so I always keep pumped bottles stored. The bond you make with your little angel is also amazing! I feel a bit guilty and lonely when I bottle feed.

It really is a good decision and after a couple weeks you would be comfortable with it.

I hope I helped a bit!

Jennifer - posted on 04/07/2010

Go to a good lactation consultant. I was nervous as well and had heard some horror stories, she really put my mind at ease. And it has been a wonderful experience.

Tonya - posted on 04/07/2010

You have to just know that what you are doing is best for you and the baby. I have BF'd four children and am still BF'ing the youngest( 8mths). It is nerve-wracking at first, but so is being a Mom. Don't be hard on yourself, be patient, and keep trying. The nursing cover is great. It would have been nice to have one when I had my first, but I simply used a blanket. You can get one for free( pay only shipping) at uddercovers.com. Alsp, join a group online or in your area that supports BF'ing mothers.Whattoexpect.com has a group, as does diaperswappers.com. There is a lot of support out there. Just be patient, and remember, this is your decision, it is best for you and your LO, no matter what anyone else says about it, it is up to you.And if you try it and it doesn't work out, don't feel bad. at least you tried. Bottle-fed babies are just as loved as BF'd babies!!!!!

Jessica - posted on 04/07/2010

You are an amazing mother already to give your child the best start in life. I BF both my kids and they hardly ever get sick, i'm sure thats why. You are unique in a generation of people who think its not cool and don't dedicate themselves to their babies as they should. I always loved the fact that I was different than my friends and was proud of my Bfeeding, I don't like to follow a crowd and enjoy doing the right thing. People are only uncomfortable with breast feeding because they wish they could be more like you and know its the right thing!! Good luck, everytime your baby grows a little you can think "i did that" you are amazing x ps it gets sore at 1st but doesn't last long push on through it the bonding is wonderful u can do it!!

Mindy - posted on 04/07/2010

I am bf my 3rd baby. I was 22 when we had our first and went in to it planning on nursing but no time expectations or anything. Inursed him 17 months. Next one I had a better idea what to expect and knew I'd nurse awhile...he nursed until 22 months. Baby #3 is 13 months and my most active nurser yet!

The bond you forge is unbelievable! Yes, you and your baby will bond without nursing but the bf connection is SOOO much stronger and fulfilling.
Know this: It will hurt for a little bit. Use your lanolin cream and know it will pass! Faster than you think, And yes, your baby's best nutrition, the phenom bond, the incredible ease make a week or so of pain definitely worth it!
Good luck!

Mellissa - posted on 04/07/2010

My lttle one is now 13 months and like some of the other mothers said is once you have your bub in your arms your selfesteem bulids very quickly. I was one of those mums who used to run off to the car to feed my LO but after a while u may feel comfortale just sitting at the back/corner of the room. Dont worry if people 'look' at you you are doing the best thing for your bub and i wish you all the best. Oh and from my experiance dont give up when they want to feed and the time durring their growth spurts(around 6 and 12 weeks) i was so close to giving up but am so glad i didnt
GOODLUCK

Casey - posted on 04/07/2010

Don't worry about it- stressing won't help at all! Just remember that it's totally natural. Sometimes it takes a little effort, but it's worth it. I nurse both of my toddlers & have just about everywhere you can think of. Sometimes it's a little uncomfortable- socially, but I have never had anyone say something. Actually, I've never even had anyone look at me funny- if anything you get looks of approval, like you're doing the honorable thing. I'm proud to nurse now- I'll whip it out anywhere- lol. There are resourses to help- like the La Lecha Legue (they have a site) and nursing shirts help you be a bit more descrete. There's usually someone at the hospital to get you started too (or your midwife will if that's how you're birthing). Take the help & know that it's absolutely the best thing you can do for your newborn (and beyond)!

Nyssa - posted on 04/07/2010

I would maybe checkout the hospital, too, where you will be have you're baby. I have delivered in 3 different hospitals and they were all really supportive, but you never know. I've heard stories. The nurses are really helpful at getting the baby to latch on. It's suppose to be natural, but the baby and mom need a little help usually for the first one. It really helps if they are supportive while you are still in the hospital, and they usually will give you info before you leave about the le leche league with someone to call for help. Sometimes it can be stressful, if you can't get the baby to eat, or are really sore. But, I've always heard if you have cracked and bleeding nipples the baby isn't latching on right. I have never had that problem, just a little sore. My problems happened with my last 2 babies when they wouldn't nurse. I think they were on some sort of nursing strike. We were both crying then, and luckily it only lasted a day. Just kept trying different postions. My grandmother nursed all 12 of her children, and my mom all 6 of hers. I honestly don't know if I would have if they hadn't. It's nice to have support from family, too. My MIL didn't bf, but she's still been pretty supportive. Probably not like my mom, though. My mom always says who hasn't seen a breast before, so doesn't think you need to cover up with a blanket. One of the last times my Mother-In-Law was here she was talking about some lady that doesn't cover up at the sale barn she works at. So, I know it bothers her somewhat. If you're comfortable enough to just whip it out, go for it. It's probably way easier that way anyway. You don't have to worry about the baby pulling a blanket off, or trying to help them find your boob. I'm a pretty shy person, so I don't really like nursing in public that much. Hope some of this helps.

Jamie - posted on 04/07/2010

What made me more comfortable with my decision was just that I knew I was doing the best thing for my baby. Once I got the hang of it though it just became completely natural and it was a great bonding experience. I'm sure that whatever you choose will be the right decision for you and your baby. Good luck!

Crystal - posted on 04/07/2010

Just remember that when you are BFing you are give your baby something that a bottle and formula could never give. I didn't BF my first and regret it so much now he's 6. I only BF my 2nd until she was 10 months old due to not being able to pump at work. Now that my 3rd is here I keep thinking to myself I should have tried harder with the first 2. My youngest is 5 months old and we have been BFing since birth. I don't have to mess with bottle in the middle of the night, and the bond that he and I share can't be explained in words. It's incredible!!

Make sure you have a great support system, Find out from your OB if there is a class or group you can join. They usually meet 2 times a week and they are great!! It's run by a LLC and the other moms in the group are right there with you knowing everything you are going through!!! And it helps alot because no matter how "understanding" Dad is he doesn't get it at all. I wish you the best of luck! Happy birth!

Desiree - posted on 04/07/2010

It's uncomfortbale at first but once you do it, you really start to feel as though its feeding your baby not so much, your allowing your baby to suck on your breast. I BF with both of my children and loved it. With my 1st, I would go in another room and do it at first but then it got to the point where I would just cover up and do it. It's a natural thing and nothing at all to feel weird about. Good Luck!

Tina - posted on 04/07/2010

Hello! I also felt "uncomfortable" with the thought of breastfeeding. I have a 6 month old now who is still breastfed and now it doesn't bother me a bit. Having family and friends that support you in breastfeeding definitely helps a lot. Also, check with the La Leche club in your area. I never was able to attend a meeting, but called my group leader many many times for support.
It will be a little painful in the beginning, but that will ease (I PROMISE!). Just remember traveling is a LOT easier...all you have to pack is diapers, wipes, and an extra change of clothes (which fit in my purse...no diaper bag for me)...GOOD LUCK!

Cassandra - posted on 04/07/2010

When I had decided during my pregnancy that I was going to breastfeed, I had apprehensions about it too. My breasts had always been sexual to me, and I was worried that I would feel perverted putting my daughter on...but.....your body knows the difference trust me. When I put her on there, I didnt feel like I was doing anything wrong. I felt like my breasts were for my daughter and I was doing the right thing. In the end, I had no problem whipping it out anywhere (sort of).....you can buy these capes to cover you if you're uncomfortable with other people seeing them. Or even a receiving blanket! Good luck and don't be ashamed =)