How to Get Your Breastfeeding Relationship Off to a Good Start

Many women plan to breastfeed their children yet are stopped by obstacles that they did not expect. Support for breastfeeding is rarely found today, and what is out there is often tainted with myths and inaccuracies. This can cause some women to give up before they have really had a chance to begin. Breastfeeding is the best way to feed your child, and offers many benefits for mom too. Breastfeeding is natural but it does not come naturally to some, if you are planning to breastfeed here is a how to guide that will increase your chances of being successful.

The first thing you should do is find support before the baby is born. Find local groups such as the La Leche League that specialize in supporting breastfeeding. Seek out other mothers who have breastfeeding experience to share. Here is a tip: find mothers who are either still breastfeeding or who weaned their children recently, they will often remember the experience and have more recent advice than a mother who stopped nursing years ago. Look online as well. There are many great online communities that help women and provide support. If you do not have local support an internet group may be even more important for you.

Next you should talk with you pediatrician about breastfeeding. When you are interviewing prospective pediatricians for your child ask them their stance on breastfeeding. I have been shocked time and again to hear mothers talk about the incorrect information they were told about breastfeeding from their child's doctor. Make sure you find a doctor that follows the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) guidelines on infant nutrition. Also, look around the waiting and exam rooms. Pens, clipboards, posters, and decorations are often provided to doctors by companies as free marketing. If you see a lot of items promoting infant formula companies then it is not likely that the doctor will support you in any issues should arise.