Breastfeeding Awareness: BestForBabes.org · BreastfeedingUSA.org: North NJ – South NJ
NJ Breastfeeding Coalition · NJ Lactation Consultants · ZipMilk.org
Source: MaternityGlow.com
Once you find out you’re expecting, you’re going to have a lot of decisions to make — and one of the most important is whether you will breastfeed or formula feed. There are definite advantages and disadvantages to both, and it ultimately comes down to what you feel the most comfortable doing (despite what anyone else thinks).
Being patient and determined is beyond important: your baby may not latch, it may hurt, there is nipple leakage between feedings, you may not produce enough milk at first, and you’ll be tired. If you are planning on going back to work, you will need to pump to keep up your supply. Overnight feedings can be tough. And while things can be procured for privacy, you can’t be shy about exposing your breasts in public or when you’re with friends or family. The main advantages of nursing:
Breast milk is specifically made for your baby. It is loaded with the nutrients they need to continue to develop and thrive, and it can be especially useful for premature babies.
Helps with postpartum healing. Your uterus shrinks much faster when you nurse and your bleeding subsides faster. You’re also more inclined to lose your baby weight faster because your body is burning tons of calories producing milk and dispensing it!
Reduces illness and infection. Your baby has a reduced chance of having an ear infections and other respiratory illnesses.
Promotes a healthy weight. Breastfed babies tend to have a lessened chance of being obese in childhood and throughout their life.
Nursing is cost-effective because reast milk is free!
The good news is that there’s a lactation specialist stationed at every hospital, as well as lactation consultants (most insurance companies cover this) that live in your area who are ready and willing to help you with your problems and questions. Together, you can formulate a plan of action that will either help you reach your nursing goals, or provide the right amount of milk (regardless of its form) to your infant.