Is it difficult to start breastfeeding?

Jenna - posted on 10/25/2011

Both of you are correct - to some extent. Breastfeeding has been shown to boost babies IQs, but it is only a single factor in their development. A breastfed baby could have completely unresponsive parents and turn out slower, just as a formula fed infant could have very responsive and engaging parents, and turn out as a genius. So yes, breastfeeding has been shown to raise IQ levels, but yes, formula fed babies can be smarter than breastfed babies.

Kathy - posted on 10/25/2011

Latasha, I have to take exception with your comment that breast fed babies are smarter. Neither of my sons were breastfed due to medical issues and both of them are extremely intelligent. My oldest son is 12 years old and has been contacted, already, by Duke University to participate in an advanced studies program for middle school students. You statement is either arrogant or stupid and you should really watch what you say when it comes to such things. Breast feeding is a wonderful OPTION for women who chose to do that for their children, but not all women are able to do so. Having a newborn can be stressful enough without you, or someone else making statements that could lead a mother unable to breastfeed to believe that her child isn't going to be "smart".

Jenna - posted on 10/25/2011

Plus, one quick note on milk supply: Newborns only need a tablespoon or so of colostrum for the first few days, so don't let anyone try to tell you that you need to supplement with formula until your milk comes in. Supplementing just reduces your supply even further! I know this is a bit off topic, but I just see it happening sooooo often, and it erks me!!!

Latasha - posted on 10/25/2011

I breastfeed both of my babies with my son my first baby I didn't do it long I was 16 and still in high school so it left me really no time as i thought then I had my 2nd baby of july this year 2011. I breast feed her I love it! It is an bonding experience your baby will be sick less and you will not have to worry about weather or not what your baby is eating from fomula is healthy or not! it is inexpensive its a very big plus at night because you will not have to get up and fix a bottle! I ask all of my friends to give it a try! Breastfeed babies are smarter than fomula feed babies! My son is way advance and smarter than any four year old he plays with he reacts and think like a 6 year old! the key thing you should know is that it may hurt at first but never give up on it even if you have to pump do it! well good luck to you and baby!

Jenna - posted on 10/25/2011

You just need to be committed to it 100%. The first month or so can be a bit difficult (making sure the baby latches well, getting past a bit of nipple soreness), but if you stick to it for 2 months, it will become so easy you won't even think about it! Just believe that you can be successful, and be sure to surround yourself with a good support system (La Leche League, other moms who were successful at bf-ing, etc), and then you will be successful! And my number one rule for myself was to not have any bottles or formula in the house (at least no bottles until breastfeeding is well established). Because there were some days in the first few weeks where I wanted to give up, and if there was formula in the house, I probably would have given a bottle - which is just a recipe for disaster when it comes to successful breastfeeding! Just remember that EVERYONE will have tough days, but that it WILL get better, and the bond you will create with your babe will be worth it all 10-fold! :)

Amy - posted on 10/25/2011

Amanda,
Difficulties could happen. I know the first three weeks were a bit rough on me. Sore nipples and mine were inverted nipples - twice as hard to deal with. But I stuck with it and by the fourth week I was thinking ...Wow, this is WAY easier and more convenient than formula. I love this!!! [my daughter - firstborn - was born with a hole in her heart, taken to NICU and shoved a bottle. I never got to enjoy nursing her as she would never take me.] There's nothing like it. At least give it a two month go. By the end of the first month though, you'll be surprised how it's all of a sudden the easiest thing ever! Feel free to email if you have any questions and there are lots of breastfeeding help groups on Circle of Moms - been lifesavers for support! Best of luck

Katie - posted on 10/25/2011

Personally, I never even considered NOT doing it! I took the classes and thought I was totally prepared to breastfeed when I had my daughter....boy was I surprised! It comes very easily to some, but it was one of the hardest things i've ever done! My daughter didn't take to it as naturally as some babies do, and it was very frustrating for both of us. At one point she went several hours without eating (as a newborn), and I almost gave up on it. At that point, I had to call my coach and ask for help! But, i'm so glad I did because it was worth every bit of effort it took. It was painful getting started, and I had to cover my nipples with plastic ones to make it easier for her to latch on, but after a couple of days it all seemed like a bad dream that never happened.
I am not telling you this to scare you, but to prepare you! It never occured to me that it might be as difficult as it was - because it isn't for most people - and I almost gave up because of it. Make sure you have a support system in place - just in case (you probably won't need it). It is so good for your baby, and it is worth the effort.

Stacey - posted on 10/25/2011

Coming from of mom of four, I encourage all moms to breastfeed. Breastfeeding came very easy to me for my 1st 3 children and seemed to go fairly well with my 4th until my health took a nose-dive. At 6 weeks postpartum, I was diagnosed with a very severe case of lupus in the kidneys. Any treatment would required me to stop breastfeeding. If I did not take chemo-type drugs, my kidneys would fail and could possibly die. So, I didn't really have a choice. I mourned for a week over the inability to nurse my last child. But, I kept in perspective that I am alive and my baby would still get nourishment from other means. You and I have opposite situations. Educate yourself as much as possible. Know what to expect. Definitely try it. If it doesn't work, don't be crushed. The health of you and the baby are what matter. I wish you well and God bless!

Roberta - posted on 10/25/2011

Dear Amanda:
I had 3 sons and I attempted to nurse all 3 of them. Greg my oldest and obviously the first, ended up being a real challenge as far as nursing goes. He had a very poor sucking reflex and often put his tongue to the roof of his mouth so he couldn't suck. On top of that I had an issue with my nipples. They looked normal and if you tugged on them they would become erect, but once the warmth of Greg's mouth touched them they went flat, so Greg had nothing to grab on to. I tried using nipples from a bottle on top of my breast but it wasn't something I felt I wanted to do for a long time. Eventually Greg became actually lethargic and didn't even seem interested in nursing. That was a big alarm to me and I took him to the Dr. He was very dehydrated as he wasn't getting enough milk and hadn't even got back to his birth weight. I felt terrible. So I put him on a bottle. Would you believe I even had some trouble bottle feeding him? He still was putting his tongue to the roof of his mouth. I couldn't even get a bottle nipple in. So the Dr. told me to go out and buy one of those nipples that are really big. That fixed the problem.
I know I am not answering your question yet but wanted you and all to know that some women cannot breastfeed for physical reason, not due to lack of wanting to nurse.
When I became pregnant with my second son, the Dr. suggested I get this device that I wear a good part of the day to pull out my nipples. Whether this made my next two nursing experiences successful or not, I was successful with my other 2 sons. They both had very strong sucking reflexes: a baracuda feeder is what the La Leche League would say. If my nipple wasn't erect their sucking certainly pulled it out. I too found my nipples very sore after the first few feedings. My nipples even became cracked. There are lots of different ways you can relieve this such as: applying ice wrapped in a towel not long before you feed, lanolin cream, at that time aspirin before you fed was OK (not sure now), and the best one was shining a light on your nipples several times a day. (Not too close so you don't burn them). This toughened them up. I would say the pain for me stopped by the second or third week of nursing. I know that making sure they latch on correctly is one of the most important issue, to prevent soreness. This means making sure they have your whole nipple in their mouth. Stick your finger in their mouth when you want to stop nursing to break the suction. In the beginning you need to nurse in different positions as well so that one area of the breast isn't always having all of the pressure applied to it. I found nursing was a wonderful experience and felt a deep bond to my sons. It is worth the effort and is best for your baby. One thing to be aware of is that at 6 weeks, 3 months, and again around 6 months, babies have growth spurts and during these growth spurts they do seem to want to nurse all the time. This is natural, they are growing. By nursing them more often, you increase your milk supply to meet their needs. I don't know if a lot of moms know this. There is nothing wrong with you or are you drying up!! The opposite is going on. So Amanda all the best and as one of your other readers mentioned, you need to try and still make your oldest child feel important and find something she enjoys doing while you nurse. If she is a girl you could buy her a baby doll and a bottle so she can feed her baby while you nurse. You could do this with a boy too, but I don't know if you would be comfortable doing that. I find moms these days are much more liberal about what years ago we would say is a gender specific activity!!!

Whitney - posted on 10/25/2011

I just had a set of twins 2 months ago as well as a two year old & let me tell you, breastfeeding is as natural as breathing. It is complicated@ first, but with one it's easier. Good luck!

Rachael - posted on 10/25/2011

Hi! Breast feeding is a wonderful experience! I would suggest that you take a breast feeding class, usually offered by your hospital. Being prepared and knowing what to expect make all the difference!

Denise - posted on 10/25/2011

Amanda it is the easiest ever. I must tell you I had no interest in nursing at all. My husband talked me into it. I am a child care provider and had 6 other children and sometimes 8 children in my care. I had to make sure I had a routine and schedule so things could run smoothly at all times. So maybe start to have rituals if you don't already have them and make special time with your older child. Story time, game time, coloring time, or what ever your child is interested in. When you come home with the new baby your other child will know when you say bring you a book you need to feed the baby you could read them a story so they feel important too. As well as teaching the older child a little independent time so you have time to relax when nursing your new little one. It really isn't hard youjust have to put on your thinking cap and find what works for you and both of the children.Congratulations and best of luck.! : ) p.s. explaining things for a while first to the older child would be very helpful to them,They would have an idea what's about to happen. The library is a very good resource on books for the older child ahead of time.

Lauren - posted on 10/25/2011

I argree with Krista, my lactation consultant and my LLL leader checked my latch and it was correct, but my nipples got really sore, i would even call it painful. But, everyone has their own tolerance for that stuff. They gave me some really good tips to help out (lanolin did nothing for me) and I ended up bf-ing my daugther until she was 20 months. I STRONGLY recommend finding a lactation consultant or a La Leche League leader to get help. I expected it to be natural and easy but it wasn't and it was good to hear from others that it wasn't something wrong with me!

Sheree - posted on 10/25/2011

Good for you!!!! I am soooo for breastfeeding. It is extremely healthy for both the mom & the baby. However, there's no real way to know if it will come easy for you or your baby.

Every situation is unique. I was lucky enough to have a Breast Feeding consultant available to me both in the hospital & after I left. Try to utilize all available resources & do not hesitate to ask questions. Although breast feeding is totally natural, it doesn't always come naturally for everyone (that includes mom & baby). Sometimes, you need help & determination to do it successfully.

My baby immediately went for my breast & never wanted to stop. That did become a problem since she was using me as a pacifier. (It can be quite painful, especially initially). Also, my baby had a vise-like grip & sucked too hard for my extremely sensitive breasts.

I breastfed her until she self-weaned at the age of 2 1/2. She never had an ear infection & the drs believed that it may have saved her life when she became extremely ill as an infant. However, it was never comfortable for me.

I believed in breastfeeding so entirely, that I stuck with it, despite my discomfort & even pain, at times. I discovered that I was most comfortable when I massaged my own breast while she nursed. It made the milk flow easier & it distracted my senses so I didn't feel it as much.

I also found that, especially initially, if I had trouble getting the milk flowing, I could do some things to help. I'f bend forward at the hips/waist, so that my breasts hung down & I could gently massage my breasts. Use gravity. It really helps. Try to relax.

I the beginning, I was all swollen & very sore. It is slow going. I expected to just be able to give milk & there's very little in the beginning. Luckily, the baby needs very little at that time.

If you do give up, try to hang in there until you get to the actual milk stage. The initial colostrum(?) a clear/yellowish substance is so important for the baby. It cannot be matched artificially. It gives them antibodies & strengthens their immune system.

Please hang in there. It is such a healthy choice for both of you. Try to relax & don't be afraid to ask for help. Do not let others talk you out of it, either. People can be really against it. I hope I helped!

Charmaine - posted on 10/25/2011

la lesh in sa is of great help to all moms wanting to breast feed. it is run by voluteer moms

Charmaine - posted on 10/25/2011

la lesh in sa is of great help to all moms wanting to breast feed. it is run by voluteer moms

Amanda - posted on 10/25/2011

First, it will not be easy however it is very rewarding when accomplished. I breastfed my first child for 14 months. She was in the NICU for the first 10 days of her life. I use an industrialized breast pump I borrowed from the hospital and after giving it back a friend of mine gifted me a simple Medela double pump.
When my husband and I brought her home after the 10 days, breastfeeding was difficult because her suck was much harder/stronger than the Medela pump. So I used a nipple shield for whichever breast she was on. Secondly, she got too tired one breast, I would just pump the other one.
After two weeks of the nipple shield and a few trial breastfeeding without the shield, my milk was flowing easier I didn't need the pump or shield.
Unless I wanted to pump before going out and about.
So, you may think it takes a loooong time but you can do it and so you can bear the pain until you basically get used to it.
If I would have been able to breastfeed the second one, I would have been happy to go through the pain again, because it doesn't last too long.

Cheryl - posted on 10/25/2011

I have nursed two children and there are sometimes challenges and sometimes its easy. With my first child, I had thrush and mastitis which made it very uncomfortable but by the time both things were corrected, we were pros. When your nipples are getting toughened in the first two weeks, it might be uncomfortable. If it hurts beyond that, definitely ask for help because something may be off.

When I nursed my second child, I thought I wouldn't need any help because I had already done this before, but sure enough, we had some challenges getting started! The lactation consultants at the hospital were awesome and got us on the right track again. Ask for help and try to relax. If you can take the class or get involved with the support group at your hospital, they can answer a lot of your questions, and they can also give the father information on the best ways to provide you with the help and support that you will need. Good luck!

AmyJo - posted on 10/25/2011

get your nipples ready before birth, scrub them with a loufa so your nipples are ready for the latch on process. Babies come out knowing what to do, relax and yes do the skin on skin right in the hospital. The first few days are the best part of your milk. Just remember relax to let your milk come down. You will do fine

Deborah - posted on 10/25/2011

It took us 2 weeks to get my daughter to start breastfeeding. It was SO rough...I had to syringe feed her formula and when my milk came in I rented a pump from the hospital and pumped to get my supply established and so I wouldn't have to continue with the formula (which I was very much against having to give her at all). She had a very weak suck and just couldn't latch...even with the help of lactation consultants, nipple shields, breastfeeding pillows, etc. I was very depressed about the difficulty we were having but I was determined to make it work so we stuck it out...I made sure that we at least attempted to get a latch going at each feeding hoping that eventually she would "get it". After two weeks she finally clicked! It was so weird, it was like I put her to my breast and suddenly she knew exactly what to do! So if you encounter problems don't give up hope! She's great at it now, and I don't intend to stop until she is ready.



I do have a few more words of advice though, because I panicked when it happened to us...at some point your milk is going to seem to diminish....don't worry because it's just normalizing to what your baby needs. I thought I was losing my supply and was almost pressured into supplementing with formula, and that's a slippery slope you don't want to go down if you want to breastfeed successfully. As long as there are enough wet/poopy diapers and good weight gain (my daughter was gaining at double the average) your baby is getting enough milk. Also, for a while it will seem like you do NOTHING but nurse all day...this is also normal. I thought it meant she wasn't getting enough milk cause she seemed hungry ALL the time, and day after day was spent in the living room recliner nursing her almost ALL day. Eventually they will learn to be more efficient at nursing and before you know it they will start nursing far less often and for much shorter lengths of time...and then you wonder if they are getting enough again. I had to learn to sit back, feed when she was hungry, however little or much she wanted (only once she was a little older....you MUST wake them for feedings when they're newborn cause often they will want to sleep more than eat, but should never go longer than 4 hours max between feedings), and not stress about it as long as she was gaining weight and had enough wet diapers.



Hope this helps some!

User - posted on 10/25/2011

The best advice I can give is stay in hospital until your milk is through and do WHATEVER you have to to get past the first month of breastfeeding! It can be the hardest time and the biggest hurdle for mothers. I am still breastfeeding my five month old and don't plan to fulling stop until he is nearing two years old but it was very hard in the first couple of weeks. I had a lot of trouble feeding him my colostrum and he would bite down before attaching properly, so I ended up very sore. I was still in hospital so it was easy to find the time to express every three hours (as adivsed by the midwives) but I still needed to supplement with formula until my milk came through when he was five days old. When I had the milk through I no longer needed to supplement with formula and after three days of only expressing and with the assistance of nipple shields I was able to breastfeed him all the milk he needed. I no longer needed the shields after about a week and have been successfully breastfeeding him since :)

Holly Janelle - posted on 10/25/2011

Im 23 and I have Breastfeeding our daughter now for 7 months!!! The first 8 weeks were the hardest for us. I didn't understand why she wanted to nurse constantly (or that's what it felt any way). I found circle of moms and was on the phone with the certified lactation consultants at the hospital where I had my daughter a bunch. I was worried about not making enough milk because of the stories my sister inlaw told me about her. I set up appointments with the CLC at the hospital and they would check our latch to make me feel better and weight her before and after feeding. She was getting enough and they told me as long as she is having 6-8 wet/dirty diapers a day she is obviously getting enough. My daughter wanted to nurse very frequently the first 6-8 weeks and it felt like that was the only thing I was doing but she was my milk supply exactly where she needed it! She is 7 months now and 20lbs and a chubby little thing and that's with her being exclusively breastfed!! You are in for a wonderful experience it's so amazing and we are so blessed to be able to be ableto share such sweet bonding time with our precious little ones :) I wish you and your huddle of joy happy nursing!! Don't hesitate to ask for help anytime you have questions we are all here for you :) I don't think I could have made it this long without circle of moms to be honest. Much love :) holly and baby janelle ♥

Jennifer - posted on 10/25/2011

Yes, it was difficult, tiring and frustrating but so worth it. Get a good support team now. Start going to La Leche League meetings now they helped me greatly. Enlist help for when you get home for around the house. Also, set up some activities for your other child to keep them entertained. Also, get a lactation consultant to see you everyday you are in the hospital. You can see them afterwards as well. Kellymom website is a heat website. With good professional help, and family support you will do great. Good luck and this is the best gift you can give your baby. Congrats on the pregnancy. The book the Womanly Art of Breastfeeding is a good reference.

Rebecca - posted on 10/25/2011

It's not "easy" but it's so rewarding when you are able to do it. Just stick to your commitment to do it and you'll get through (baring any physical reason you, or your baby can't do it).
The first couple days are rough, especially because it's new to both of you, your making colostrum so he/she will be eating more often and you'll be soooo tired but you can do this! :o) Try not to supplement or pump for 4-6 weeks, to give your body time to know how much milk to make. I've heard you shouldn't give pacifiers either as it could confuse the baby but my son wouldn't take a pacifier so I can't give my personal opinion on it.
When your milk comes in, your breasts will HURT! But, warm showers worked for me. Good news, it only lasts a little while. Also, have some lanolin cream on hand for your nipples, they'll be sore too until they become used to the friction of the baby suckling. They sell the cream near the other breast feeding supplies, like bra liners etc.
Don't be afraid of utilizing your hospitals breastfeeding classes and they also usually have a lactation consultant that is more than happy to help, should you need it.
You can do this. Best of luck. ~Rebecca

Elizabeth - posted on 10/25/2011

I am a mom, Labor and Delivery nurse, and a breastfeeding educator. Staff should be availabe whereever you deliver to help you and the baby start this journey. I could write a book on the details but just remember....you and your baby will both be learning to be a team at the beginning. Be patient with yourself and the baby. Don't get frustrated if it doesn't happen in the first 30 seconds--we are an "instant" society. Be determined and patient. You have already received excellent advice here--especially skin to skin contact to calm the baby and encourage the "rooting" instinct and help with good latch.

I had worked in L and D for 5 years when I had my first baby girl. Breastfeeding didn't really appeal to me since my older sister and mom did not breastfeed and felt bottle feeding was superior. I, however, knew it was best for the baby and was determined to "grit my teeth and just do it for a few months" for the baby's sake. I didnot plan any support team and did EVERYTHING wrong the first 10 days resulting in cracked and bleeding, painful nipples. I had a hysterical breakdown alone with the baby in the nursery rocking chair about 3 am one morning. I tearfully vowed to give breastfeeding up the next morning and calmed myself with the idea of bottles and formula. Once I was calm.....an hour later....I just got MAD. I am WOMAN , hear me roar (that old Helen Reddy song) came to my head. What if I was in remote Africa or Asia?? If I gave up breastfeeding, my baby would probably not survive. Women have done this thousands of years....hope was alive. I developed a plan. The next morning, I sent my spouse to the local drug store to "fetch" something helpful. I didn't even know what I needed. I told him to find the breastfeeding supplies and buy ONE of EVERYTHYING. He dutifully did just that and in the big bag I found lanolin and breast shells. The lanolin soothed and the shells help keep fabric from irritating my nipples and kept them "aired"--healing started instantly and things started improving. My milk supply increased and my daughter learned to latch better.

When she was about 6 mos old she would nurse in the cross cradle position with her lower arm curled around my ribs and back and her upper arm up near my neck. She would look at me eyes wide open and pat me with her upper hand as if to say, "THIS IS THE GREATEST, MOM". She melted my heart and I cried at the thought that I nearly gave up and missed this experience that God provided for almost every mother,child. At that time, I realized how many benefits that breastfeeding supplies the mom. I breast fed our daughter over one year and our son for about 14 mos.

If you want to breastfeed, just do it. Get help and encouragement from other breastfeeders, nurses, family, and lactation consultants if necessary. Sometimes one hour with an experienced lactation consultant can solve all problems.

Good luck--you can do this!!!

Martine - posted on 10/25/2011

Hi Amanda,

Yes, breastfeeding ~can~ be difficult, but nothing insurmountable. I nursed preemie twin boys, so I know first-hand the DOWNside of breastfeeding! However, there are such tremendous and incredible UPsides to it that it's well worth any and all effort you put into it.

Hospitals now usually have a lactation consultant on staff, so I would begin with her, right after you deliver. She can give you all kinds of tips and help you perfect your baby's latch-on and how your breast should "fit" within your baby's mouth. This is SO important! If you don't get that right, it WILL hurt within a few nursings. But once you get it perfected, OH MY, is it ever an INCREDIBLE feeling! Totally well worth everything you put into it. Talk about relaxing!!!

Kind regards,
Martine

Rebecca - posted on 10/25/2011

My daughter (my 1st) was born 6wks early and the pediatrician gave her a bottle right there in the operating room to make sure she was able to digest. Because of something that develops at 35wks. I was super tired and drugged so I think I didn't see her for a few hours. She had a hard time latching and it took almost 5 days before she latched and actually drank from the breast. We had all the help from the lactation consultant who kept me trying. We used an SNS system to help me feed her from my pumped milk. The Dr. insisted I wake and feed her every 3 hrs so I think it was often very forced. Better to feed on demand. Then once I got her latching and feeding she actually favored one breast over the other. I always fed from one side and switched to the other to give her a little more. I was so tired and not paying enough attention and realized that she was not really trying to get much from the left side and waited til I switched her to the right side to get her fill. The left breast almost completely quit producing, but I pumped to get production back up. It took us about 3 mo. to get really good at BFing but I'm so glad I kept w/ it. and nursed to about 13 months. With my son (who actually came 5wks early) he took to it much easier. I generally only feed from 1 breast at a time (except at bedtime). He is completely different and just wants food, my daughter was/is a lazy eater and was so finicky (may have started because of that first bottle). I know this sounds like a big ordeal but even with my rough start it was COMPLETELY worth it. Some say it just comes natural and they never need any help. I needed lots of help and was so glad it was offered.

Sandra - posted on 10/25/2011

I didn't breastfeed my first child, due to a flat nipple, but was successful to breastfeed my second child. At first it may be a bit difficult but when you get used to it, you would not want to change for bottle feeding. What helped me was the use of nipple shields, but when I settled I could breastfeed normally. Today my child is 8 years and I would recommend breastfeeding to anyone. What you need is some patience and perseverance. Don't give up as soon as you get your first problem!

Jenny - posted on 10/25/2011

All three of my babies (now schoolagers/teenagers) were breastfed and yes, tell the hospital staff that you are exclusively breastfeeding, contact your local La Leche League/Health Unit (if you're Canadian) for support and also enlist the help of friends that have breastfed. There are two points I'd like to add as well though - I had for each of my kids a "two week toughening up period" - my toes would curl as the babies would latch on until my nipples "toughened up" - everyone talks about "proper latch" and how to avoid this but no one talks about how it can hurt like the blazes until you're used to breastfeeding. It is only natural - that area of your body is "not used" until you breastfeed, so the skin naturally has to get used to the job! I have almost 5 years of breastfeeding experience and had it for every child so it is normal to go through that (it's not ALWAYS a latch issue - unless you develop blisters/cracked nipples/bleeding - but you can still breastfeed through all of that with the help of lanolin and your own breastmilk in conjunction with good old fashion air drying). Stick with it (and through it) - after those two weeks, you'll be so happy you did because breastfeeding is so much easier especially with another child to chase after! My second point I'd like to make - people will harp on you about the "baby not getting enough" - a wise friend explained how nature works - babies stomachs can only fit about a teaspoon of milk into their little tummies at first, this builds up over the next few weeks and so does your milk to match the baby. Feeding is more often but that's OK because there's no work involved - just whip open your top and go to it anywhere anytime! LOL!

Lisa - posted on 10/25/2011

At first it may be,but it is well worth the effort.Keep trying.Also,your nipples will be sore for about a week.After that,they won't be.IT is very good for the baby,and it is a wonderful way to bond.I'm a nurse,have only one child and breast fed him.Glad I did!Good luck.Also,the baby will have to learn how to latch on.There should be lactation specialists who can help you where you have the baby.

Courtney - posted on 10/25/2011

It is really hard for the first week. It takes them time to learn how to latch on correctly. Just try to remain calm and try not to stress. Its all worth it in the end.

Shannon - posted on 10/25/2011

I wasn't able to breastfeed my first baby but my second one latched right on and she's 2 and a half and I can't get her to stop so it was very easy for me! I have the all hope you will be able too its such a bonding experience

Jessica - posted on 10/25/2011

I have 3 kids, and have nursed 2 of them. Nursing is such a blessing, the bond that nursing gives is something i would never have imagined! I encourage nursing due to the convenience, the antibodies, and the bond. Nursing can be, at times, stressful, especially when first starting out. If you give birth in a Hospital, you can choose to have a Lactation nurse come and help you with advice and show you how to get baby to latch on correctly. I adored my Lactation nurse, she was a god send:) My experience with nursing was not too bad. The first couple of times my daughter latched on there was slight pain at first, due to sensitive nipples. Once she was suckling for a minute the pain went away in my nipple, but the suckling action also causes your uterus to contract and causes some discomfort there. Nursing helps your uterus to go back to normal size faster:) I had little soreness on nipples and was advised to use Lanolin cream, which helped immensely. You will also need to watch what you eat while nursing. My daughter didn't take well to spicy or gassy foods, like broccoli and onions:) A boppy is recommended to help hold baby close to you while nursing, for your comfort. I tried the boppy and found it easier w/o it. Just my opinion with that:) Hope this helps and good luck with the new baby!

Caryn - posted on 10/25/2011

Looks like you've gotten plenty of advice! Breastfeeding is hard work, but rewarding. I'm in month 9 for my second. I've been pumping at work since month 4. Be sure both you and if at all possible your partner take a breastfeeding class together! It was the best thing we did with DD #1.

Annika - posted on 10/25/2011

No its not too dificult u just have to do it, it wll came natural. There are many ways of doing it on the bed laying down sideways, both sitting down, mother sitting down & baby laying down. U might concider if she/he is a constant drinker having some kind of cream to put on the nipples if they get sour, put it usual doesn´t happen, dreastfeeding its a great bond between mother & child, feed her/him until a yr. only if less doesn´t matter but not more than a yrs.

Marie - posted on 10/25/2011

for me, it was pretty difficult to get all 4 of my children to nurse, but only for the first 3-4 days..mostly because they just didn't want to wake up and i got so worried i probably stressed myself out more than i should have :) after the first few days we both (or in my last case, the 3 of us) got used to the routine and stuck with it for a long time!

Heidi - posted on 10/25/2011

Hi...I am an avid breastfeeding mother. I attended a free workshop which really helped me to understand the mechanics of breastfeeding--how to teach baby to latch on properly, breast maintenance, etc. Knowing what is a good latch and what is not is critical to your comfort and to baby's efficiency in terms of sucking. It has been a magical experience for me--I have never had any pain, any dryness or cracking of nipples. Also, I follow the Sears Family books for support--great information and advice put out by two people who have been there, done that etc. If I am blessed with another child, I will absolutely breastfeed again...the financial aspect and the convenience cannot be beat!! Good luck and no, it wasn't difficult to start breasfeeding. Make sure that you have some good supportive people around you to help you!!

Pamela - posted on 10/25/2011

Breastfeeding is not easy. It doesn't hurt for everyone, especially if you listen to the nurses and follow their tips, it will lessen in time. Its a special thing between mother and baby, and although its not right for everyone, it should be something you should at least try for as long as you can. I had issues and I read every tip out there, but for some mothers it just works. I tried with 3 of my babies and lasted about a month before I couldn't do it anymore. Good luck!

Krista - posted on 10/25/2011

Just a reminder, folks: this thread is to offer the OP advice and tips on how to successfully breast-feed. It is NOT to bash formula or those mothers who formula-feed, either by choice or necessity.

Thanks,
Krista
WTCOM Moderator

Erica - posted on 10/25/2011

For me, any discomfort was well worth the benefits of breastfeeding. I nursed Caroline for almost a year, and I will (barring any unforeseen circumstances) nurse our second as long as I can. For the first few weeks, I guess about 2 1/2 to 3, I had some light scabbing on my nipples. I didn't crack or bleed; it happened in a different way. My sister is due with her first soon, and I told her it was sort of like getting a hickey on your nipple, then instead of allowing it to heal, you kept getting one over and over in the same spot. Eventually, the blood under your skin will come to the surface. I used Lansinoh cream and it helped quite a bit. After that, nursing was a breeze. I loved not having to pack bottles, formula, a bottle warmer, and all of that stuff. Also, I pumped every day, so if I wanted to use a bottle, I had breastmilk ready to go. I stopped when Cari started biting me on purpose, with no intent to nurse. I considered that her refusal, and let her switch to sippy cups. If I had to say one thing about nursing, I'd say...don't give up. The bond you will share with your child is something I'd go through much worse for, so ask for help from a nurse if you need it. Relax, and good luck!

Elisabeth - posted on 10/25/2011

The best advice I got was from my mother. She was sitting beside me while I nursed on day 2 and my daughter wouldn't latch. The baby was freaking out and I was crying and my mother very calmly said, "If you don't calm down, neither will she." So I was like, "Ok, focus." I took a few deep breaths in and out and stopped crying and my daughter latched. It was such a big moment for me because I realized that my feelings will feed into hers. Just stay calm and breath and remember that she takes her cues from you. You can do it!

Natalie - posted on 10/25/2011

The best advice that my midwife gave me was to know that your body was meant to breastfeed and that if you make up your mind to do it, you will. I really believe that pure stubborness is helpful when you are breastfeeding. It seems like at some point every nursing mom encounters a struggle with it and that stubborness is what you need to get through it.
Having nursing gowns for the night made it really convenient for me to give baby easy access. The convenience of night nursing is so fabulous!
As hard as it might be, resist the urge to let others give baby a bottle in the beginning. You need to develop that strong nursing relationship and once baby is older you can introduce a bottle for others to feed.
I started using Lansinoh cream on my nipples from the moment I first started nursing and worked hard to make sure she always had a good latch. I never had any dry, cracked nipples and that made it much more comfortable. If it hurts when baby latches on for more than just a second, baby isn't latched on properly and you need to take baby off and start again.
Those are some of the things that worked well for me. Enjoy that special time with your new baby!

Ann - posted on 10/25/2011

I was very difficult to get my son started. My daughters were preemies and so I pumped in the beginning and had already had my milk supply well established before they had the suck swallow reflex. But we had latch issues. I was very determined! I used the shield with all three to start and weaned off. I talked to the lactation that the hospital had read up a little. But the most supportive thing I did for myself was talk to other moms who had breastfed. It grew to be easier and easier as I tried. I ended up being so successful that I never had to buy formula. The very rough starts were worth plugging through. I give it credit to how much eye contact my son does have for a child with autism. The bonded is also pretty invaluable. At the time I had no idea but I believe all the bonded has been the foundation my son needed, and I, to begin our journey with autism. no regrets here.

Sherryl - posted on 10/25/2011

I know you have plenty of replies, but I just wanted to say that is not difficult to start b-feeding. Those first few colustrum feeds are majic, and if you have support from your midwife in regards to correct latch then they are reletivly painfree.
It is continuing feeding that is difficult. After a couple weeks your nipples get sore and you feel you can't go on. It is at this point you need to reach out to LLL, lactaction consultants and experienced b-feeders even more.
As long as you air dry you nipples as often as possible, and consiously make an effort to make sure baby is latched on correctly for the entire feed, you should have minimal problems.
Take it 1 day at a time. Once you get past the 6 week mark it's plain sailing!

Christabel - posted on 10/25/2011

I am with Dorraine. But the other thing is that it is such a satisfying experience. I absolutely loved that extra bond that I developed with my baby. She and I would snuggle as she would intially take a long time. But as she got faster it was still atime when she and I could spend some 1:1 time just us. But I also expressed and felt that even if she didn't feed from the breast I could still give her breastmilk. And the first would not breastfeed and would only take the bottle. either way its a win - your baby is happy and healthy.

Belinda - posted on 10/25/2011

Keep at it, the first two weeks I felt slight tingling then one day it was fine verse loose clothing, buttons or zipper easy access. Keep a wrap or cotton sheet on your shoulder for cover ups and spills. May you be in a cafe comfortably breastfeeding soon! Well done for giving it a go

Belinda - posted on 10/25/2011

Keep at it, the first two weeks I felt slight tingling then one day it was fine verse loose clothing, buttons or zipper easy access. Keep a wrap or cotton sheet on your shoulder for cover ups and spills. May you be in a cafe comfortably breastfeeding soon! Well done for giving it a go

Alexandra - posted on 10/25/2011

Hi Amanda, I run a breastfeeding support project, support is key and getting lots of help from day1. All babies are different some latch on perfectly first time and feed easily, some take time to learn how to feed. If you get the latter you need support to help you stick with it when you are tired and sore postnatally. Honestly the 1st two to four weeks can be tiring but it really does get easier and before you know it you can't imagine not breastfeeding your baby and you can go anywhere, stay out for ages without worrying about having enough milk with you because you have it on board at the right temperature etc. (I'm sure you already know all the benefits of breastfeeding for you and baby). If your other child feels left out include you other child by having special toys he/she can play with whilst your feeding. Plan you support before you give birth just in case - goodluck I'm sure you will be amazing x

Vanessa - posted on 10/25/2011

I am still breastfeeding my 3rd child. I had help in the hospital as soon as Julien was born a hour later I was breast feeding him. I had a C section so its possible with that too. I had a lactaction consultant come and help me. I had my nurses help me and encourage me. I was scared about nursing in public so I went to a La Leche League meeting when my son was 2 weeks old. Once I saw the leader not cover up and breast feed in front of me I stopped caring about covering up. I got a moby wrap and those are great because you can use them as a nursing cover and use them to carry the baby. I co slept with my baby on the couch to make nursing easier on me. I was scared to sleep with my baby in the bed. I was told that birth control will mess with your supply and giving formula will too. If breastfeeding hurts then it could be a latching problem. You have to be determined because formula is so tempting. When your baby hits a growth spurt you will be feeding for like 24/7 and it will last a few days. I dreaded those days and I sat on the couch and watched tv. You will get so tired because breastfeeding releases relaxin that relaxes you and makes you sleepy. The first 3 months are hard but after that you are homefree and its cake. My son is 2 and a half and he is still feeding. If I have a 4th child I wont let it go this far though.Let me tell you this my breastfed child is the healthiest out of my 3 kids.

Lera - posted on 10/25/2011

Breastfeeding will be one of the most rewarding things you do as a mom. Just like every part of parenting it will have its struggles, so join a support group like Le Leche League. I never had any problems with breastfeeding, mine came with my supply. With two of my boys I had enough milk for twins and I couldn't get my first son to drink enough. This is however a good problem to have considering some women don't make enough. Besides Le Leche League there are lots of great herbs that can help you with all aspects of pregnancy and breastfeeding so please educate yourself. I agree with Sara, feed your baby whenever they are ready. If you are going to breastfeed don't suppliment with bottles just stick with it and seek help from other moms who have been there done that. Keep in mind your baby will changes schedules as they feel the need, so don't worry if they are feeding every two hours and then switch to every three and then change again to every hour. You will quickly learn that our children will change their eating habits regularily through their life time living with us. :) By the way one of the most important things you can do for both of you is to get comfortable, relax and enjoy this short period of one on one time you have with your baby.