Special Request

A loyal reader of mine, Andrea, has specifically requested some information on Breastfeeding (BFing). So, we’ll call this BFing 101! I may break this into several segments, just so my readers don’t feel too overwhelmed or tired of reading one long entry.


Let me preface by saying that I am not an expert, I am not a lactation consultant, I am not a doctor and I am not a La Leche League representative. But, I am a mom who has been BFing for almost a year; I’ve had ups and downs, tears and joy along the way.

First, I think it’s important to ask yourself why you want to BF. Health benefits for mom and baby, cost savings and mother/baby bonding are just a few of the reasons why I chose to BF.

Second, I think it’s important to set goals. Do you wish to BF just while you are on maternity leave? For the first six months? For the first year? Or until the baby self weans? It’s ideal to set goals, but keep in mind that it’s okay to adjust your goals. Ultimately, a happy momma equals a happy baby! The end result is that you need to feed your child. Whether that be with exclusive BM or formula; don’t beat yourself up (I know firsthand, easier said than done!).

Lastly, you need to know that while BFing is a very natural thing to do, it doesn’t always come naturally. It’s a learning process for both baby and first time moms. Patience is a virtue. I will tell you straight forward that the first few weeks will probably be hard. You will probably want to give up. You will be engorged, you will leak spontaneously in the most awkward of situations, you will feed the baby around the clock, and you will wonder if you will ever sleep again.  You will wonder if you are producing enough milk, you will wonder if you are producing too much milk, you may feel overwhelmed with visitors and your mom, your sister, your neighbors-cousin's-mom giving you advice.

My biggest piece of advice is to hang in there!