No-brainer breastfeeding: A comprehensive guide for new moms (Part 1)

Breastfeeding is tough but totally worth it. Here’s everything you need to know to make nursing a breeze.

Breastfeeding has many benefits, but like most things worth doing, it can also have many challenges. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies be breastfed through their first birthdays; however, studies report that while 75 percent of new moms start breastfeeding, only 36 percent are still doing so after six months. Just because nursing is natural doesn’t make it easy (just ask any mom who chose natural childbirth!), so we have compiled a list of nursing must-haves—from important information to stylish nursing tanks—to help you get the best start at giving your baby her best start.



Knowledge

Knowing the advantages of breastfeeding can help even the most nervous nurser overcome challenges. As your baby grows, your breast milk evolves to match her nutritional needs and provide immunities, making it superior to formula. For babies, breast milk decreases the incidence and/or severity of a wide range of diseases and reduces the risk of SIDS. Studies propose that breastfed infants have higher IQs, lower chances of obesity, and lower cholesterol levels as adults. Breastfeeding benefits for mom include a faster return to her favorite jeans, decreased risk of breast and ovarian cancer, and reduced risk of osteoporosis later in life. Beyond the health benefits, breastfeeding also saves time and money. Formula costs (on average) $150 per month, and specialized varieties such as soy, organic or ready-to-feed can cut into your budget even more. In addition, nothing bonds mother and munchkin better than the cuddly intimacy created by nursing. And no special preparation is necessary for feeding your infant on the go—you’re all she needs! 



Preparation


While there's nothing you can do to prepare your body for breastfeeding (pinching your nipples to toughen them is a myth that leads to, well, sore nipples), you can prepare mentally by educating yourself. Most hospitals offer breastfeeding classes about once a month—they are an affordable way to learn what to expect before your newborn is wailing. Having the right expectations greatly increases your chances of successful breastfeeding. Understand nursing may be difficult and uncomfortable at first, and sore nipples and leaking breasts are common components of breastfeeding. 



Lactation Consultation

While breastfeeding is natural, it may not come naturally, so having your baby bond with your bosom may take a little assistance. Postpartum nurses may or may not be trained to help you with breastfeeding, but luckily, most hospitals have lactation consultants (aka breastfeeding gurus) on staff whose advice is so helpful it's worth having your breasts fondled by a stranger. They can help you find the right position and ensure your little one is latching on properly, which is the key to effective breastfeeding.



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