Breastfeeding is the most natural process in the world. We ~ as mothers ~were created with the ability to sustain the lives of our precious children from the moment of their birth until they are able to be nourished by Nature's other bountiful contributions to the food chain. And yet, while all this is certainly true, the process of learning how to breastfeed does not necessarily come naturally ~ for either you or your baby!

If you are visiting this site before the birth of your baby, there are many things you can do to prepare for breastfeeding ...

• Books written by individuals or organizations (such as La Leche League International) who are specially trained in lactation (breastfeeding) are good sources of information.
• There are several breastfeeding web sites that offer information and support (such as Dr. Jack Newman's breastfeeding resource site, www.drjacknewman.com).
• Talking with breastfeeding mothers is also a valuable source of information ~ just keep in mind that everyone is unique, so one woman's experience will not necessarily be yours.
• You should plan to attend a prenatal breastfeeding class.
• It would also be very helpful to attend a breastfeeding clinic for new mothers, even while you are still pregnant. The more you actually see women breastfeeding, the more opportunity you will have to see how others deal with the inevitable challenges that accompany mothers and babies in the early days of their breastfeeding relationship.

It is normal to have concerns, but most women are able to breastfeed without any special preparations. Continue the healthy diet that you followed during pregnancy and take your prenatal vitamins. You should plan to begin breastfeeding as soon as possible following the delivery, right on the delivery table if possible. Keep your baby with you and breastfeed on cue (when your baby begins to show signs of hunger), or at least 10-12 times in 24 hours. You should plan on breastfeeding your baby without the use of formula or bottles until breastfeeding is well established, which usually takes 3-4 weeks. It is important to learn the proper way to position your baby on your breast. Proper positioning and latching (taking the breast into the mouth) will be the most important skills you will learn in establishing successful breastfeeding.

The first weeks will be a learning period for you and your baby. Breastfeeding babies nurse more frequently and longer in the early days, until your milk supply is well established. You should expect 6-8 wet cloth diapers (3-5 paper) and 5-10 soft, yellow, seedy stools daily by the end of the first week. Obtain phone numbers for breastfeeding support before you leave the hospital.

The first few days, and perhaps even weeks, of breastfeeding can be extremely challenging, and the temptation to give it all up and turn to formula feeding can be very strong. Just know that the vast majority of women, with very few exceptions, do have enough milk and can succeed at breastfeeding with proper and adequate support and guidance. If you are visiting this site after your baby's birth, and are experiencing difficulties with, or have questions about, breastfeeding, we can help! Contact us as soon as possible (see contact information at the bottom of this page).

Whether you choose to breastfeed for weeks, months, or longer, you will provide your baby with the very best beginning he/she could possibly have. Trust your body, relax, and enjoy this wonderful and unique experience.