Breastfeeding..It Rocks!

I came across this picture below a few months ago as it was trending on Facebook. It made me giggle as  I posted it on my wall and a few co-workers walls...(hehehe)

I wanted to share with you some shocking statistics that I came across when reading an article and another breastfeeding blog about some research done a few years back..

• 75% of new moms in the US attempt to breastfeed
• only about 33% of them continue to breastfeed until 3 months
• only about 13% continue to breastfeed for 6 months
• 50% of women felt pressured to stop breastfeeding before they wanted to (likely due to society, family, doctors)
• 1 in 4 women are uncomfortable seeing women breastfeed in public
• 18% of mom still believe that formula keeps a baby as healthy as breast milk

As an IBCLC these statistics kind of bothered me...I thought to myself, well why is this? Why is the breastfeeding initiation rate in the USA only 75%? Every Mom wants what's best for their baby right?

EDUCATION and SUPPORT are the 2 key words..here are my tips to all you new moms to increase these statistic rates!

• Take advantage of your meeting times with your doctors and nurses...ask questions
• Take advantage of IBCLC's and breastfeeding counselors at the hospital, doctors office or other health centers
• Find a free breastfeeding group near you - La Leche League http://www.llli.org/webus.html
• Don't be afraid to voice your concerns
• Educate yourself prenatally with good information
• Develop your birth plan and try to stick to it
• Don't worry about what society or what other people think of you! We were made to breastfeed out babies
• Send me a message..I'd love to help and answer your questions!

Dads Play an Important Role is Breastfeeding!

Over my years of practice as a breastfeeding specialist and lactation consultant one of the most common questions and concerns I hear from new dad or significant others is..."What can I do if Mommy is breastfeeding?". I think that this is a very legitimate concern as Dad/SO's most likely already feels left out by the process of pregnancy, feeling the baby kick, and the bond Mom instantly formed with baby when she found out she was expecting. After the baby is born breastfeeding is the most natural and amazing thing Mommy can offer to her newborn but that doesn't mean that Daddy doesn't get to participate as well. Here are some things that Dad/SO's can do that are just as special as feedings:

• Cuddle Your Baby (skin to skin contact)
• Watch for babies hunger cues - help Mom prepare to breastfeed
• Take your baby for a walk
• Give your baby a bath
• Infant massage (look for free classes on google)
• Learn how to soothe your baby in other ways (singing, bouncing, cuddling)
• Help with meals and chores around the house to reduce stress for family
• Keep Mom company while she is feeding the baby, kiss babies cheeks while they are feeding

These are just a few examples of things that Dad and significant others can do to support, bond, and love their baby after birth!

More Reasons to Breastfeed!

For Baby
1. Reduces the risk of adult obesity
2. Lowers blood pressure
3. Reduces risk of osteoporosis
4. Improves lung function
5. Reduces risk of SIDS
6. Reduces risk of developing allergies
7. Promotes the bond between mom and baby
8. Increases babies IQ
9. Provides immunity
10. It's always available, at the right temperature


For Mommy
1. Lowers blood pressure
2. Less Stress
3. Reduces risk of rheumatoid arthritis
4. Reduces risk of metabolic syndrome
5. Reduces risk of cardiovascular disease
6. Breastfeeding burns calories
7. Helps Mom lose weight faster and get back in shape
8. Nighttime feeding are quick and easy
9. Breast milk is free
10. Breast milk is a special gift only you can give your baby