Breastfeeding, or nursing, is when you feed your baby breast milk, usually directly from your breast. Breastfeeding is a personal decision that brings benefits to both you and baby. It’s a good idea to talk with your family and healthcare team to find out if breastfeeding is right for you and your baby.
At least 82% of all women in the United States breastfeed and here's some things for you to know- The size of your breast or nipples does not matter. Breastfeeding takes practice, time and support. It is your legal right to breastfeed in public and your supervisor at work is required to make accommodations for you to have time and space to pump or express milk at work. Setting up a plan and a support system are keys for a successful breastfeeding journey.
There are many experts that can help you address issues and offer encouragement and support. If you’re experiencing trouble breastfeeding it may be useful to contact one of the following resources:
• A lactation consultant
• A nurse that specializes in lactation
• A postpartum doula
• Your baby’s doctor
• Your doctor
• Friends and family members who have breastfed
• ZipMilk
• Pickles and Ice Cream Georgia
• CSRA Perinatal Task Force – find them on Facebook
If you’ve sought out professional help and are still having trouble breastfeeding, remember that it’s not an all-or-nothing proposition. Talk to your baby’s doctor about whether you should consider supplementing with formula or formula-feeding. What babies really need is love and attention from you- and that doesn’t come from the breast or the bottle.
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