By Cindy McDonnell, RN
Even though it is a natural process and what we, as women, are designed to do, breastfeeding takes practice and is a learned behaviour.
The best thing you can do for yourself when you are planning to breastfeed is to be educated. Talk to other mothers you know who have breastfed their babies, read some books or websites and attend a breastfeeding class (DECH provides a breastfeeding class to all expectant mothers free of charge). Bring your partner. It’s important he/she is on board with your decision.
The next best thing to do is surround yourself with people who are going to support you. Breastfeeding can be very trying and frustrating as you and your baby learn to get along with it. Having your own personal cheerleader can save your nursing relationship when it starts to wane. There will be times when you feel like giving up, when you feel like it is too hard and when you just want a break. Your support people are on the outside of you and your baby as a nursing couple and can remind you of all the reasons why it is worth it to trudge on.
Be strong in your decision. You will likely come across at least one person who tries to push formula on you as an “easy way out” and you will likely hear “are you STILL breastfeeding?!? When are you going to give up on that?” Exactly the type of comments you do NOT need to hear. When you are in your tough moments, remind yourself that you are strong and you are giving your baby the absolute best start in life. Convince yourself to dig your heels in and get through the next feed, the next day, the next week, the next month.
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