Breastfeeding (scroll down for new comments & content)

The very first moments after the birth of each of my children I notice their tiny mouths rooting for what they naturally crave, mother's milk. For reasons I don't fully understand the very term "breastfeeding" has become an ugly word here in the United States. No one looks twice when a bottle is propped into a baby's mouth, but as soon as a mother offers her breast to her baby there are unwelcome comments and glares from many strangers, and even those close to her. I have been fortunate enough to have a husband who was raised in a home where breastfeeding was a normal part of life. I was not exposed to breastfeeding growing up. My mother did not receive the information or help needed to overcome her particular challenges those important first hours/days following my birth. Because of this she did not breastfeed me past the first week of life. When my brother was born two years later she didn't even try to breastfeed since her previous experiences with it caused her to think she was unable to. Beyond my home I had only seen one child breastfed that I can remember from my childhood. I find that incredibly sad.

Long before I married I knew that I would breastfeed my children. It was never a debate for me, I just knew what I needed to do for my children. As I have learned about the many benefits of breastfeeding it's easy to see that it is the best choice for me and my family. Having a husband who totally supports me in that decision has been a great comfort to me. I have a strong enough determination to do whatever it takes to establish a healthy breastfeeding relationship with each of my children, but sometimes knowing he's as determined as I am gives me the extra strength when I come upon a breastfeeding challenge that is discouraging, and often painful. Thankfully these times are rare, or quickly overcome. As a whole I can say that I really enjoy breastfeeding. I love being able to quickly sooth a crying infant, calm down an upset baby, and comfort a toddler when their explorations end in hurt body or feelings. It has been a great way for me to slow down and not do too much in a day. Meeting the needs of my children through breastfeeding creates a special bond that can't come in any other way.

I believe the key to a healthy breastfeeding relationship is knowledge. I don't wish to attack those who choose to substitute breastmilk with formula, but rather educate people on the benefits and naturalness of breastfeeding. If you are pregnant and haven't made the decision to breastfeed yet, please visit LaLecheLeague.org. Ignore anything negative that you may have heard about breastfeeding groups. As with any organization sometimes there are a few "militant" leaders and members. In my experience the support and knowledge of my local La Leche League group was vital to my breastfeeding success. Chances are you will find the same in your area.

~New Comments & Content~

With that said I will share a few other resources to help better inform you of the benefits of breastfeeding. I think once there is a belief in the superiority of breastmilk there comes a resolve to do what it takes to make sure that you are able to provide the added benefit to your child's health and development through breastfeeding (or in some cases, bottle feeding with breastmilk).

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Page Last Updated - Thursday, August 30, 2007 5:28 PM