When it comes to breastfeeding, it seems that a woman is on her own. She is solely responsible for feeding and nourishing the baby. It is her breast milk that will ensure her child grows and flourishes through infancy. That’s a bit of pressure!
Of course, if it goes swimmingly, breastfeeding is one of the most satisfying, calming, and loving parts of motherhood. I am preparing for the birth of my first child in February. I am so excited to breastfeed. I want it to be the magical bond I have read about, heard my sister talk about, and can imagine it to be.
But what if it doesn’t go so smoothly? In my research, I have also heard of the many, many things that can be obstacles to successful breastfeeding. Things such as blocked ducts, cracked nipples, mastitis (which I witnessed my sister endure, she had a rare case that involved pus, an abscess and surgery, yikes!), poor latch, low supply. The list seems long and intimidating.
Luckily, I am surrounding myself now with people I can call on if trouble comes. I want to be sure I try everything possible and that I am ready to ask for help because I am not on my own in this.
Here is my (ever growing) circle of support:
- My husband – he’s a big believer in breastfeeding and I know he will be there for me every step of the way.
- My sister and mother – It’s always good to have experience to call on.
- My sister-in-law – She has been trained in lactation management.
- My local La Leche League - I plan to attend at least a meeting or two before I have this baby.
- Online communities – It is amazing the support and information I have found already on facebook and twitter, forums and blogs. Of course, it is my responsibility to discern facts from opinions, but there is definitely support out there!
- A lactation consultant – I haven’t found them yet, but I imagine I will have their phone number memorized by the time my milk comes in!
- Prenatal classes – We haven’t started them yet and it is only one of the six classes that discusses breastfeeding but I plan to have lots of questions and my notebook ready. There is also a breastfeeding workshop offered at my hospital which I plan to attend.
Who or what else should be on my list? Where do you turn for breastfeeding support?
This post was written as a part of a blog hop! Check out the other blogs listed below that are on the same topic of breastfeeding support.
