Breastfeeding??

Amy - posted on 12/31/2009

I breastfed both of my kids until they were a year old. I read once that there are over 300 individual components to breast milk, but less than 30 in most formulas. Breast milk is truly all natural and what a baby's digestive system is designed to take. Formula is made in a laboratory. Both of my kids were healthy and happy toddlers, and are now healthy and happy kids. They both put on weight easily and quickly.

Remember, also, us moms have spent our entire lives building up our immune systems. A baby's immune system is starting from scratch. Breast milk contains all the immunities we have built up and breastfeeding passes that along to them.

My nipples were sore for about a week. Both kids took to it within a day or two (if not hours).

I had no problems feeding them in public. I just covered myself with one of the baby blinkets and no one seemed to mind. Then again, if they did, who cares? Just a woman feeding her baby the way nature intended.

However, if you are having problems, get mastitis, or the baby is not gaining weight (or any other issue like that) talk to your child's doctor. Don't feel like you are less of a mom because you opt for formula when breastfeeding didn't work. In the end, you do what it takes to care for you baby.

Amber - posted on 12/31/2009

First let me say...IT IS DEFINITELY WORTH IT! I definitely recommend trying to breastfeed. It can be very difficult at first, but don't give up. It is so worth it. I would suggest consulting a lactation specialist or going to a breastfeeding class BEFORE giving birth, if breastfeeding is what you decide to do. Also, if you decide to breastfeed, let the hospital know that you don't want your baby to be given any formula or sugar water. If you don't like pacifiers you can also tell them that you don't want them to have those either. A lot of hospitals won't ask!

I had latching issues with my son, mostly because he was 2 weeks early and had a hole in his lung so I couldn't nurse him for the first day. The first hour is really the best time to start. I ended up using a nipple shield for the first 3 weeks because my son had difficulties latching onto my breast. I stuck with it and we're going strong now.

The benefits to your baby (and you!) are just amazing. Your baby will be getting the best there is nutritionally. Your baby will also get antibodies that you have made in your body which often will prevent them from getting sick even if you are. (I am just getting over a cold which my son thankfully has not seemed to catch). You get to bond with your baby.

It's cheap! You don't have to buy formula. I'm not going to say you won't have to buy bottles, because if you are like me and going back to work you might. I plan to pump when I go back. I have a nice stash in the freezer of milk too from pumping.

Breastfeeding past infancy also reduces the risks (for you) of breast cancer, endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer and uterine cancer. It protects against osteoporosis. They are also doing studies which have shown that breastfeeding is good for your heart.

Breastfed babies are less likely to be obese later in life and it helps prevent allergies.

There is a group on here called Breastfeeding Moms. There are many helpful posts. The website Kellymom.com is also a good resource.

I could go on and on (but I won't), because I truly love breastfeeding and I want all moms to give it a try. A lot of times I think new moms get bad advice from medical professionals who don't know enough about breastfeeding and that leads them to have negative impressions/experiences with breastfeeding.

Good luck!!

Lora - posted on 12/31/2009

I breastfed all 5 of my children and have absolutely no regrets. As the others have commented it is a great bonding experience for you and the baby, it's inexpensive, and better for them. Our children will get enough chemicals as they grow up, it's great to start them out with something natural.

It was hard at first, but once you get into the swing of it, it's great!

Danielle - posted on 12/31/2009

I have been breastfeeding my son for nearly 9 months. I started with the goal of getting to 6 months. I obviously met that goal, but it wasn't always easy. I had to work with a lactation consultant because my son woulddn't latch. I ended up having to use nipple sheilds.
My son was four months old when I started back to work. So I had a good amount of time to devote to breastfeeding, without having to worry about pumping. For future babies, I will definitely pump anf freeze milk sooner. I made it to 6 months solely feeding my son breastmilk (either bottle or nursing) but I had to suppliment because pumping at work, was not workign for me. (Although I did pump for 2 months--stressful!) Personally, I would say give it a try. If it doesn't work for you and your child you can always stop.

Andrea - posted on 12/31/2009

I'm going to start by saying I was one who wouldn't have even THOUGHT about breast feeding. It was my hubby would wanted me to do it for the benefits of the baby. When I heard all the benefits and then found out the great benefits for me as well, I figured I'd try it. I said if I couldn't do it, I'd be fine with that and just go to formula. I've always been kind of wierd about my boobs and my hubby even said he didn't know if I'd be able to do it b/c of that. Well, I started and Mason was rubbing me raw when I fed him and I wasn't producing enough, so I had to pump for about a month and then add formula to make up the difference of what he needed. To me, the pumping was the hardest thing with breastfeeding. I had to pump while trying to sooth a crying baby. Try doing that with no hands! HA! Well, I was really worried about him having nipple confusion with bottles and pacis and not wanting to take the breast, but I actually think it ended up helping him learn how to suck. Once he started doing better with the latching, I would do more and more feedings on the breast until that's all I was doing. Come to find out, he also had reflux, so he would pull and thrash around sometimes in feedings, but even with that I found myself LOVING to breastfeed in no time at all. Something that I didn't even think about doing in the first place is something I super enjoy now. I just went back to work (thankfully part time) and I'm so hoping he doesn't get too excited about the bottle. I've been back for a week, and so far, each day when I get home, even if he's eaten just an hour or so before I got home, he still wants to BF for a little while, I guess just as a comfort thing...just to know mommy is back home. I will agree that sometime's it's tiring in the night when you know you're the only one that can feed him, but it's so worth it and you learn to enjoy those times and bond even at 2am :) People say that BF babies have to eat more often, but in those few weeks when I had Mason on formula too, he ate just as often with either, so I wouldn't say that. I think some babies just have to eat more often, or have a healthier appetite! One thing that is super important is to have a support system like previous people have said! My hubby was behind me 100%. Our familys though kind of thought it was a strange concept. I know my hubby nor I were BF b/c people just didn't really do it that much back then. They have learned to back us up now though. And actually, I have started to even almost get offended if someone says something about cereal or something like that. You just have to explain to them that the baby is getting what they need! The breastmilk actually changes with the child! It's amaizing how God designed us! I really hope you at least TRY to BF for a little while. It is alot of work sometimes, especially if you have to work at it to get the milk to come in, but it is SOO worth it! Something funny...I have actually looked in to becoming a lactation consultant now b/c I love it so much! Oh...that's another thing! Definitely make sure you have a good one! Most hospitals have them I think, and make sure you talk to one a couple times while you're there and take a breastfeeding class! If it hurts, something is wrong! It's not supposed to be a painful thing!

Katrina - posted on 12/31/2009

I nursed both of my children and loved it. They both had some complications with nursing at first but quickly caught on. I enjoyed having that special time with them and I do not believe in all the chemicals in formula. Breastfeeding is definantly a personal choice and having a great support system behind you is great. Find some friends that have also breastfeed their babies and use them for questions or concerns and mainly support. I have 2 very smart and well rounded children

Alayna - posted on 12/31/2009

I do breastfeeding and formula. I had a really hard time breastfeeding after my LO was born because my supply was really low and he was a lazy eater. I worked with a lactation consultant and tried every trick in the book (SNS system, pills to boost my supply, etc) and had to end up giving him formula when he was 4 weeks old and still not at his birth weight. But we found that only a few bottles a day was enough to make him starting regaining weight.

So, in sum, it is not easy for all people. Definitely work with a lactation consultant if you have problems. Having one to work with is the only reason I was able to do what breastfeeding I do. She was a life saver for me because it was emotionally difficult to have supply problems. Felt like a bad mom, etc; But I have accepted now that I can nurse and formula feed. My LO gets what goodies I can supply and he eats formula to make up the difference.

Hope you find the answer that works for you. It is a wonderful experience and I am so thankful that I have been able to nurse him.

Michaela - posted on 12/31/2009

I breast feed my oldest daughter for 6 months and my twins for 3 months. I did this to give them a good nutritional start and an immunity boost. For me it wasn't the act of breastfeeding that became difficult it was the pumping while at work. Depending upon the kind of job you have pumping can be easy or difficult. With my job I was in and out of meetings all day and each day was different. If you have a regular schedule throughout your work day it may be easier.

Breastfeeding at night was very easy. It took much less effort especially with twins to breastfeed than to get out of bed walk downstairs, fix a bottle, warm it up, go back upstairs, etc...

Also I found that breastfeeding with my first child seemed to help me lose the "baby weight" more quickly.

Tiffany - posted on 12/31/2009

Breastfeed is Best Fed! I breastfed both of my sons. Your breast milk is the best thing for your child, especially in the beginning. There are nutrients in your milk that are essential for boosting your child's immune system. Breastfeeding is also beneficial to yourself as well because it helps you to loose weight faster and get rid of the "baby pouch". My first son latched on right away - less than 10 mins after he was born and stayed on for over 2 years! I was almost 6 months pregnant with my second son and still nursing my first. My second son had a little more difficulty latching on, but with patience and perseverance we worked it out, although he only nursed for about 6 months. I hope to have more children in the future and I intend on breastfeeding every single one of them. It's the best thing I can do for them as they start their new lives outside of the womb and the bond is unbelievable. Ultimately the decision is yours, but I would recommend that every new mother at least attempt to breastfeed. Whether you breastfeed for 1 week, 3 months or more than a year...you'll be benefiting your child as well as yourself. The best of luck with your decision!

Sara - posted on 12/31/2009

I'm Currently Breastfeeding, It was extremely Frustrating at first but once The Baby and I got the hang of it Its not So Bad. Despite The Difficulties Of breastfeeding Its SO WORTH IT, your child will benefit from Being breastfed More then Formula Check out this Link For some of the Benefits =) http://www.womenshealth.gov/breastfeedin...

Laura - posted on 12/30/2009

i have been breastfeeding my daughter for 7 weeks now. I am a nurse (LPN) and just graduated nursing school not too long ago. There are many benefits for both you and the baby... it promotes their immune system, you will lose weight faster, they digest breast milk much easier, the benfits are endless and most websites are accurate. As far as it beeing hard it is. It is really difficult for the first two to three weeks but if you can make it past that it gets much easier and rewarding. After having a baby you are in pain, tired, and going through a lot emotionally. It is painful if the babyy doesnt latch corectly and even if they do it's still hurts but there is cream that is a must! I use it after every feeding-lanolin. If it's something you really want to do you can do it you just have to stick with it. The bonding time and connecting with your baby makes it so worth it. I see it every time my daughter looks at me. There isnt anyone else she looks at quite the same with her huge smile!

Stacey - posted on 12/30/2009

I nursed my twins for the first year, though wanted to go until they were 2. They had other ideas..lol. I would say that it was one of the best decisions that I could have made. In the beginning it is always hard. Sometimes they have latching problems, you need to increase your milk production, sore nipples etc. But it's worth it. I figured that I must have saved over $5k in the year that I nursed, instead of buying formula. No offense to non nursing mothers mind you. The decision to nurse was a very personal one. It was something that only I could do. Everyone else could change their bottoms, give them a bath, and play with them, but the bulk of their nourishment came from me. Not to mention the wonderful antibodies they got from my milk. I didn't have to get out of my warm bed to go to the kitchen to heat up two bottles, then to feed them. Instead I could bring them to bed with me, snuggled under the blanket and nurse them. The milk perfect temperature and already sterilized for their nourishing pleasure..lol. So for me it was definitely worth it. Once I got a milk duct infection (not mastitis), and yes that did smart ALOT. But I nursed right on through it and it passed. It took about 5 feedings before the feeling of a knife stuck in the side of my breast went away. But even that didn't make it a bad experience for me. Plus there is just something so cute about when they are done nursing and they smile up at you with that little bit of milk creeping out of the corner of their mouth. Too cute. Soooo that being said, I say go for it. Good luck hon.

Lisa - posted on 12/30/2009

It is hard if you do not have someone to show you how. I actually enjoyed the time I spent with my son. It is better for your baby and it saves you a lot of money formula costs a lot. I did not breastfeed my first I had no idea even where to begin. They showed me in the hospital with my second and it helps a lot if you have a protective shield on your nipple till you adjust. If I had another child I would breastfeed again.

Marcia - posted on 12/30/2009

I am an avid fan of breastfeeding. I breastfed continuously for about 9 years. I had my children about three years apart and didn't stop breastfeeding one until I was almost due with the next. I always lost all my pregnancy weight within 3 months and my children rarely got ill. The drawback is that your breasts are tender and if you don't feed or pump as needed, you will have a let-down and leak on yourself. My girls didn't have much of a problem latching on but when they had teeth they did occasionally bite.

Jen - posted on 12/30/2009

Also take your time and relax. This should be an enjoyable experience and a way to really bond with you little one if it's the choice that you make. Then take your time and enjoy it like no other cause it doesn't last forever.

Melissa - posted on 12/30/2009

It's difficult at first!!! But once you figure it out and the soreness goes away, it's a piece of cake. But just do whatever you feel is best for you and don't let anyone pressure you otherwise!

Jen - posted on 12/30/2009

It shouldn't be difficult. If you are having trouble consult your local OB department there should be lactation specialist who can help you.

Amy - posted on 12/30/2009

Breastfeeding is definitely not the easiest thing to do. With my first child I was very self conscious about feeding him in public as I have always been a very private person. I fed him for about 4 months but it was just too difficult after I went back to work. I never had a huge supply of milk and I lasted for about two weeks after I started working again. There was no where private to go to pump so I would be tensed up in the restroom and I think that affected it. My little girl is 8 weeks old now and my milk is already slowing down again. She was born at 6lb 13oz and just had her 2 month checkup and was only 8lbs 2oz. It doesn't look like she is getting enough so I was just told to start supplementing with formula.

Ruth - posted on 12/30/2009

I would absolutely give it a try, get all the help you can from the specialists while you're in hospital and remember it's a learning process for you and your baby - it's not something you instantly know when the baby arrives... and don't beat yourself up if you can't do it for what ever reason, the important thing is that you and your baby are happy and healthy so if that means a bottle then that's what you do. I have two bubs and have breastfed both, my youngest (8mths) weaned herself a few weeks ago and I fed my oldest 2.7yrs for 11 mths. I suggest a wheatbag for your neck cause mine was constantly aching from gazing down at my bubs, it's a beautiful thing - I still have that problem now she's on a bottle though...

Kristina - posted on 12/30/2009

I could write an essay on this topic, looks like a lot of people have ;) But in all honesty the breastfeeding was a little difficult in the beginning, but not enough to make me quit. After a couple weeks the pain went away and after 2-3 months it became second nature. Now breastfeeding is effortless ;) I enjoy nursing him, it gives me time to stop, relax and just bond with him. It is also free and helped me lose almost all my baby weight in 4 months!

Veronica - posted on 12/30/2009

It depends on you. Some women just don't care to do the whole breastfeeding bit. Others wont do formula at all. I breastfed for as long as I could with all of my children, and plan to breastfeed again with the new one. I say - give it a try - the first three months are critical in mastering the breastfeeding - I had cracked/bleeding nipples, soreness, and have had thrush and blocked ducts -- but the worth of giving my baby a healthy start was more important - and over time i healed and it got better. I then formula fed til they were a year old - and then put them on regular milk after that. Do what feels right for you - if breastfeeding works out great for you - thumbs up to you -- if it just doesn't grow on you, do not feel bad about going to formula - at least you gave it a try, and you can still feed your baby and keep them healthy. Lots of people will have their say either way. Some think its disgusting to breastfeed, while others think its rediculous to formula feed -- so you will get crap either way from someone -- just do what YOU want to do, and whats best for you and your baby. Good luck -- V

Petra - posted on 12/30/2009

nobody mentioned anything about the transition from breast to bottle feeding. I had a very difficult time to get my baby to drink from a bottle. I followed books i read to wait for 6 weeks before introducing a bottle (to avoid nipple confusion) and then it was too late! He liked booby too much to want anything else. Now he drinks only from a sippy cup (6 months old now) for 2 feeds a day but it was very frustrating to get to this stage. Also he still wants boob when wakes at night and so if I need to be out in the evening and he wakes he will not sleep unless I'm there or cry himself to sleep. I start working 5 hours a day in a months time and worried because he will not have me to feed him to sleep for his morning nap! Had I known this would have happened I would have mixed bottle and breast feeding earlier!!!

Elina, Mamaista.com - posted on 12/30/2009

it's such a tough issue. and women have personal issues about it. but we were fine with it for a while, after the first three weeks when it hurt terribly. but it gets better. also, some moms experience supply issues. there's this new drink called mamatini that actually helps with that.

http://www.mamaista.com/2009/12/18/breas...

Joyce - posted on 12/30/2009

I'm still breastfeeding my second baby, who is almost 13 months old. I went back to work when she was 3 months old, so I pumped at work for about 8 months. Even though I don't love pumping, it was easy, and it enabled me to continue to breastfeed in the evenings and weekends, so it was well worth it. I think that it's much better for the baby; have you seen the number of unnatural ingredients in formula? It might not be for everyone, but I would encourage every pregnant mom to give it a try. Oh, the weight loss piece was amazing, too!

Natalie - posted on 12/30/2009

If your baby is a good eater you will have no problems my daughter latched on so well from the first time it is such a wonderful experience and it realy is such an amazing way to bond with your child, at first your nipples will be very tender i think thats the only bad part but its not even that bad, but it will be completley worth it trust me! : )

Jamie - posted on 12/30/2009

the first month is hard! but if you can make it through that first month or two, i am almost certain you will want to continue. it's well worth it and gets easier with time.

Emilie - posted on 12/30/2009

It was quite a challenge for me. My son was born at 26w, which significantly complicates things. My son couldn't try nursing until he was 2 1/2 months old and didn't properly latch on until he was 5 months old! Still, I think it was totally worth it. There is a different closeness when nursing vs. bottle feeding, in my opinion. I highly recommend seeing a lactation consultant early on. They can correct any problems with latching on before they are obvious to you. Plus, actually nursing is very convenient - no need to carry bottles around worry about keeping them cold or warming them up. There are plenty of resources to provide privacy and comfort when nursing just about anywhere.

As with just about any part of being a mom, you need to do what is right for you and your child. I have many friends who have nursed one child and bottle fed another. There are lots of factors to consider. Whatever you decide now, just remember that you can change your mind later, at least up to a point.

If you are concerned about pumping at work, it is a bit of a hassle, but I enjoyed those few minutes of peace and quiet each day. Some moms choose to nurse when they are home and use formula while away. That wasn't an option for me because I had to work very hard pretty much around the clock to maintain a milk supply (just part of the unique challenges of having a micropreemie). Others nurse only until they return to work. There are lots of options and it might take a bit of experimenting to see what works for you. Just do what works for you and don't let anyone make you feel guilty or silly about it. This is about you and your baby.

Vesna - posted on 12/30/2009

I was unable to get my daughter to latch on to breastfeed, despite numerous meetings with lactation consultants. I have been pumping breast milk for her since she was born for the past 6 months, and I will continue until she is at least one. I am well aware of the benefits of breast milk and the risks of formula, and as far as I am concerned, not breastfeeding simply because you don't feel like it is selfish. Just my opinion.

Erica - posted on 12/30/2009

I have exclusively breastfed my four month old twin girls from birth. I also went back to work when they were eight weeks old and they only get pumped breast milk. It is a lot of work because you are solely responsible for your babies hunger but so worth it for your baby and you. Benefits to baby: immunity, less allergies and sickness, less chance of childhood or lifelong obesity, and bonding with mom. Benefits to you: uterus goes back to size quicker, uses up 500 calories a day, less bottle washing, no need to make and warm bottles in the middle of the night, saves about $1,000 if you don't have to buy formula for the first year, and bonding with baby. If you set your mind to it, you can do it. I recommend speaking with a lactation consultant at the hospital when your baby is born. They can help your baby latch correctly. They can also get you ointments if you experience soreness those first days. I battled with sore nipples the first couple weeks but am totally comfortable now. Most experts recommend trying it for at least six weeks before deciding to switch to formula.

Josephine - posted on 12/29/2009

Its different for everyone. I did it for 2 months and it was easy you get sore but lanolin works great. I had to stop due to lack of milk...Also what you produce in the first few days is like a thick liquid which isnt the milk yet but its the most important and it help protects your babys immune system.

Sally - posted on 12/29/2009

I nearly gave up in the first week - my milk took longer than expected to come in (due to the blood pressure medication I was on), my baby was starving , and the lactation consultant in the hospital actually agreed he needed to go on formula for a couple of days (his blood glucose level was 1.7). I pumped in hospital and got next to nothing. I decided then and there that we would be buying formula on our way home from hospital, and that was it.

We left hospital after 4 days (I had a caesarean) and I decided to pump one last time when I got home. Wow! My milk was just starting to come in! He still had formula that day as well, but after that I breastfed him for 4 1/2 months. Would have done it much longer if I could have but my milk dried up over Christmas time (last year) because I pumped and formula fed him a few times just to fit in with all the business of Christmas (I didn't feel comfortable feeding in public) and my body obviously thought we were weaning so it just slowed right down and I couldn't bring it back again.

I wouldn't give up those 4 1/2 months for ANYTHING, and if/when baby number 2 comes along, I'll definitely be less self-conscous about BF in front of other people, so hopefully my milk will stay around for longer. I loved the closeness, the convenience, and knowing he was getting the best I could give him. I also loved the fact that even though he was outside of my body now, I was still providing him with EVERYTHING he needed to thrive :-)

Anita - posted on 12/29/2009

Go for it girl! I breastfed four children - the bonding is just beautiful and it is your special time together. It also saves money, washing/sterilising bottles etc. And it is so beneficial to your baby. When I first started feeding my first, I had about six different midwives show me six different ways to feed. Take in their advice along with mum and mum-in-law, then just do what is comfortable for you and your baby - a banana shaped pillow is an essential asset, you wrap it around your body whilst sitting comfortably and baby lies on it, giving a comfortably feeding position. Most important is to make sure baby is sucking properly otherwise you will get cracked nipples - most painful. The easiest way is to clamp the breast in one hand, get the milk flowing, and with your pointer finger that is holding the breast gently pry baby's mouth open so that he/she clamps on properly. You will get the hang of it quick enough and you will know when he/she is feeding as it feels comfortable for you too. Good luck.

Alecia - posted on 12/29/2009

My son wouldn't latch on so I got a pump. For him I only felt like the benifits were that he was getting breastmilk. With my daughter I am noticing more benifits for me. For instance an amazing amount of weight loss. Breastfeeding burns upto 600 calories in a day. Great way to take off that extra baby weight. Medela is an expensive brand, but it is the best and totally worth it. I got a double pump this time so I can do it in half the time.

Melissa - posted on 12/29/2009

Do it best for your baby and you too. Makes your baby healthier and you will be healthier and changes of breast cancer lower by breastfeeding. Child will be smarter. You have to eat right and the bond with child is great. Lot of work the first six weeks and time. Pump breast if have to and let father bottle feed with breast milk great for you and for him. Drink and alot of water and juice and when breast feeding. I did this for eight month with first child and seven months with second they are 9 and 11 now only been sick one time bad. Less doctor bills this way too.

Elaine - posted on 12/29/2009

It's only as hard as one makes it. I have gone back to work and pump. You learn to work around the schedule. I also put the breast milk in a bottle when we go out. I don't want to breastfeed in public, it's not my thing. The nutritional benefits are why I do it.

Venessa - posted on 12/29/2009

I love it and don't find it to be difficult at all. My daughter is almost a year old and I love the time we spend together when she nurses. Now she is at the age in which she loves to touch my face and run her fingers through my hair. I absolutely love it! I'll probably continue to BR until she is 14 months. That way I'm still passing on antibodies through the resp season.

Michelle - posted on 12/29/2009

The first 2 weeks was VERY hard for me with my first. Once we both figured out what we were doing, it was absolutely the best thing I ever did. Ever. Not to get all gushy, but it is truly amazing that our bodies are capable of providing everything our babies need for the first, say, at LEAST 6 months of life. It gets easier, and we got so good at it that we could discreetly nurse anywhere, standing up if need be, restrooms, wherever. And I never had to pack formula or water bottles or anything - had what I needed right there. PLUS all the money you save (although I probably spent that on the pump).

Robin - posted on 12/29/2009

breastfeeding isnt hard!
it may take a couple of days to weeks for both you and your baby to become proficient at it... but its not hard!

pull boob out, put baby on!

it can be some what painful when you are first learning, but once your nipples get used to it them the pain goes away and it feels natural and comfortable!

BENIFITS:
1) dont have to go through 2-3 differnt formulas til you find the right one
2) no sterilising bottles
3) dont have to remember to have a bottle with you when you go out
4) great for night time... so easy and helps to settle babies
5) BEST BONDING EXPERIENCE!

DOWNFALLS
1) expressing... time consuming and annoying... alot of mothers just simply cant do it as well!
2) cant leave your baby for more than 3 hrs without expressing!
3) father is not involved in feeding
4) mum ALWAYS has to get up to baby at night
5) is easily diguested which means more feeds more often... especially at night!

all in all id say go for it! try your hand at breastfeeding and if you enjoy it and its easy DO IT! there are plenty of people out there, nurses, doctors and lactation specialist who can help you to do it right!

BUT... on the same hand... if its a struggle to do and you not enjoying it... give it up! breastfeeding is ment to be natural and enjoyable... if its not then its not for you... and thats okay too! at least you will know you gave it your best shot!

Daniele - posted on 12/29/2009

I absolutely love breastfeeding. I originally started with the goal to reach 6 weeks. Then it was 6 months. Then it was 1 year. Now, it is however long she wants (we're at 18 months). The closeness is so precious. Plus, when she comes to me asking for her 'bop,' it melts your heart.

I work full-time and pumped until she was 12 months and we could substitute cow's milk during the day. I hated pumping. It was boring and uncomfortable and I hated making time in my work day to run to the ladies room and pump. But, I loved hearing my husband tell me how much she enjoyed her bottles and watching her grow and develop, knowing I was doing my best for her, even if I wasn't around.

The first few weeks will be hard, especially if your milk takes forever to come in. But, if you really want to breastfeed, don't let the hospital talk you into giving the baby formula or sugar water. Let the baby nurse as often as possible so that both of you get the hang of it. Plus, your milk will come in faster if the baby nurses more often.

Good luck and let me know if you need any information/advice or just someone to talk to. :D

Amanda - posted on 12/29/2009

I loved breastfeeding. We had a rough start, but I wouldn't have traded that time for anything. I went back to work at 16 weeks and pumped, but I also worked my schedule so that I could breastfeed my daughter as much as possible. It was a necessary part of my downtime to be able to cuddle her and feed her. It was 20 minutes when I could sit and relax and not do anything but watch her and snuggle her.



I BF'd until she was 17months and she gave it up before I was ready to.

April - posted on 12/29/2009

Because this issue can be controversial and sensitive, I think a lot of people-don't give women enough information to make a fully informed choice. Not wanting women who formula-feed to feel bad, they minimize the benefits of breast feeding. But I think if the benefits of breast milk were fully disclosed, as well as the side effects of formula, more women would obviously choose to breastfeed. But, unfortunately, many do not know the benefits. The truth is, that formula fed infants are NOT as healthy as breastfed infants, and there is a lot of research to show this.

Some things to inform your decision: The longer you breastfeed, the more protection you receive from all the feminine cancers. Breastfed babies tend to have higher IQs. They have fewer colds, ear infections, and the like because they receive immunities from these things from you. For my first child, the first year of her life, she had a little bit of a runny nose for one day, and all the other babies that I knew who were formula fed always had all these colds and ear infections and stuff. Also, babies who are breast fed have lower chance of being obese later in life. They also receive protection from heart disease as an adult! They tend to have fewer allergies and are less likely to have asthma. They also have softer skin. And, for me, very importantly, breast milk is perfectly suited for their immature digestive tracts. Formula is actually harmful to newborn GI tracts. Here is a site: http://pregnancychildbirth.suite101.com/...

My experience is that it seems to me to be easier than bottle feeding. I never have to buy formula, sterilize all these bottles, and make bottles. I lift my shirt and feed my baby. Of course when I was working then I had to pump, but that's okay. That ensures that I get a break in the middle of the day. (Did you know that breastfeeding releases stress-reducing chemicals into your body?) With my second child I did have the problem of her not latching properly and a very sore, bleeding nipple. However, once I spoke with a lactation consultant from the public health department, the problem was corrected very quickly. I would recommend going to La Leche meetings for support. A lot of breast feeding issues are really easily dealt with if you know what to do, but if you don't have any support and don't know what to do, then it can become a big, painful, and frustrating problem.

September - posted on 12/29/2009

It's really not as bad as some make it out to be. It is hard within the first couple of weeks but once you get breastfeeding established it's the best thing ever! I think that it's important to educate yourself and to work with a lactation specialist until you feel comfortable and confident in what you're doing. The most amazing part of it all is the bond that it creates between you and your child. It's defiantly worth the pain and the pain will go away! Good luck :)

Heather - posted on 12/29/2009

The first couple of weeks are difficult; however, my hospital had some great lactation consultants that helped me get started. After that, I think it gets much easier and is a great time to bond. Besides the nutrional benefits for the baby, there are numerous other benefits to baby and mothe - including weight loss for some mothers, bonding with mother and baby among other things. I went back to work after 12 weeks and have been able to pump plenty for her during the day. I actually think night feedings are easier if the baby stays in your room since you do not have to get up and heat up a bottle. From what I have seen, breastfed babies typically spit up less, which makes for a bit less laundry as they get older. :-) Some suggestions for keeping breastfeeding up when you go back to work include having your husband/partner clean the pump parts every night and get it ready for you in the morning.

Melissa - posted on 12/29/2009

Lol.....hard? First, it saves money cause you do not have to constantly buy formula. Secone, it is very convienient. You do not have to remember a bottle everytime you leave the house. You have an endless supply. And the bonding, ohhh I just loved that part. It is healthier for babies as well. They get all natural nutrients. Plus sometimes I hear stories about drugs getting in the formula. I breastfed my son until he was 15 months old and the last month I only nursed him in the mornings and at night. And as far as when I had to go out and left my son at home, I pumped into a bottle. Although my son never likes a bottle, we went to a sippy cup at 4 months, incase I wasn't around to nurse him. The only downfall I would say, is that babies get full faster and longer with formula. Breastmilk is not as filling. But again at 4 months, I started my son on cereal to help fill him up more. I only have one child right now, but my fiance and I want at least 2 more, and I will nurse all of them. I hope this helps. Best of luck!!

Elizabeth - posted on 12/29/2009

Its difficult. but its worth it. Some babies don't latch on right away, especially if they were delivered early. I'm a working mom and went back to work soon after i had my baby so breastfeeding was a short lived experience. you should definitely try it, but it is very frustrating for some moms and to be honest can sometimes be a burden. but it is a wonderrful experience that you should try and if its not for you, its ok. don't feel guilty about not wanting to or not being able to. formula fed babies are just as healthy.