Breastfeeding Resources/Tips

[ValH]

Hi all!  I'm now 18 weeks pregnant with my first, and really looking forward to breastfeeding.  I was wondering if y'all have any suggestions for books to read, or ways to get prepared??  Or any tips for first-timers, or heads-up for what to expect?  I'm really kind of clueless when it comes to breastfeeding, but really want it to work. 

Thanks in advance!

[PatioGardener]

To start you off, try kellymom. Awesome website!

[ValH]

Thanks!  Looks like there is a ton of info on the website, I'm excited to start learning.  :)

[PatioGardener]

Originally Posted by ValH 

Thanks!  Looks like there is a ton of info on the website, I'm excited to start learning.  :)

Baby is still sleeping so I have a little more time.

Have you thought about attending a La Leche League meeting before baby arrives? I really wish I had. A friend took me to a meeting when my DS was 9 months old and I LOVED it. I wish I hadn't been so shy while I was pregnant.

Congratulations for your pregnancy!

[nstewart]

I read and loved "The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding".  It was a great book.  Try to get an updated copy though.

I agree with PP.  Try to find a LLL group in your area.  There is SO much BAD information out there, and it often comes from people who you think should know about BFing.  I just came home from DS's 9 month appointment and my doctor assumed I must have weaned DS because he has 8 teeth!  And then she went on about night weaning him so that he can sleep through the night!!  My BFF just had her first last week and was advised by her doctor that she should only nurse every 3 hours so her supply would keep up!   Ok, sorry, that's my rant.  I just wish that people who should know actually did inform themselves!

Good luck and congrats on your pregnancy.  I LOVE my BFing relationship with my DS.  It is so rewarding. 

[Bokonon]

Definitely KellyMom!

I loved "The Nursing Mother's Companion" - it's very straightforward.

[amberbirthdoula]

I also have the Nursing Mother's Companion and it's really easy to navigate and has helped me answer questions for other moms. :) Also, I'd recommend taking a breastfeeding class if there are any offered locally (usually through the same place you might find childbirth classes). 

Best of luck :)

[ValH]

Thanks for all of the info, ladies!  I will check out the books mentioned, and I'm definitely going to attend the La Leche League meetings.  I had forgotten that my doctor offers a breastfeeding class, so thanks for that reminder, too.