The Truth About Breastfeeding

The most common thing that women are told about childbirth and early childrearing is that it's all about INSTINCT. Unsuspecting new mothers are led to believe that motherly instincts will kick in like a super power and they will automatically know how to care for a newborn.
This is simply not true.
After nine months of making a person, you give birth. There is so much hype, at least in my case, about the birth, but not what comes after it. People are full of advise leading up to the birth, but when you ask about how to care for the little person that you've just brought into the world those worries and concerns are waved aside and you're told, "Oh, you're instincts will take over for that."
Breastfeeding is one and I feel the most important thing that's waved aside. The fact is - breastfeeding is really, really hard! Not only is the mother learning how to efficiently feed their new child, but the baby is learning as well. Then when you add sleep deprivation, self consciousness of your new body, worry over maintaining your relationship with your partner, breastfeeding can become very overwhelming.
There are other issues with breastfeeding besides just feeding your child. These things are, engorgement, lack of milk supply, overproduction of milk, infections, clogged ducts, the list is endless.  Mothers worry every day if their child is getting enough milk, if their milk is depleting, if the appearance of their new breasts are normal and on and on. The answer is YES!
My son is four months old and I feel like we really haven't got the hang of breastfeeding until last month. Only now do I feel confident that everything is as it should be. Only now do I feel like my son's latch is perfect and he's getting what he needs.
Instincts indeed.
There are many places worried mothers can go for lactational help. Of course, if you have worries, always consult your pediatrician or OBGYN. There are other local places as well. The hospital you gave birth at is a good start. They have lactation specialists that are there to help you. The La Leche League is another plethora of information.
Another thing to do is form a support group with other breastfeeding mothers. Swap information, concerns and products. Use social media like Facebook to keep in touch with each other. It helps to hear what other mothers are going through. You'll be shocked to find that other moms are going through the same exact thing as you.
Lastly, research, research, research. The internet if full of helpful sites that specialize in childrearing - www.parents.com and www.babycenter.com, just to name a few.
Remember, you are not alone. Millions of mothers struggle with breastfeeding to the point that it feels more like hand to hand combat than a wonderful bonding experience. But don't give up! The best thing you can do for your little one is keep at it. You'll both get the hang of it. I promise.