This article answers common questions about getting started with breastfeeding your newborn.
Breastfeeding Your Newborn
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one tough job
American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a child’s life.
Whether or not to breastfeed exclusively, or at all, and how long to breastfeed are decisions that you will make based on your circumstances and what works for you, your family, and your baby. Do take into consideration that there are many benefits to breastfeeding for both moms and babies and that the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a child’s life. Ultimately though, it is up to you to decide if breastfeeding is a good fit for your family.
If you have decided to breastfeed, you may have some questions. This is very common for new moms because, while breastfeeding is natural, there can be a learning curve. Know that it might take some time for you to figure out what works best for you and your baby. Over time and through practice, you will learn from each other and develop a good breastfeeding routine.
If formula feeding will also be part of your feeding plan with your baby you can find information to get you started here.
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Dads play a vital role in the support of moms who are breastfeeding. This blog post by Sojourner Marable Grimmett of The Huffington Post covers useful tips her and her husband learned from their lactation consultant and ways dad can be involved and connected with mom as she breastfeeds their baby.
This local chapter of the international organization provides mother-to-mother support on breastfeeding and healthy child development. Their website has a variety of educational materials, as well as information on local chapter meetings.
