What they don’t tell you about breastfeeding…

**hospital picture

Okay, we all hear about the benefits of nursing – for both mother and child. So as a new mom trying to do what’s best for my little one I was determined to breastfeed. Now granted everyone has a different experience…but seriously, this was no easy task for me. So much harder than I thought it would be!!! Here is what I learned those first few weeks:

• It’s harder than it looks and not necessarily so “natural” right away
• IT HURTS! Your nipples become raw, your boobs swell and LEAK
• In the beginning you feel like all you do is feed the baby . . . ALL the time – seriously, you feel like a cow
  
• It is initially inconvenient (unless you’re extremely comfortable nursing in public)
  
• There is no cute and comfortable nursing bra out there (if there is – please tell me)
• You can’t wear dresses (for the most part anyways…and  living in Florida I really like to wear summer dresses)

So yes, it can be a pain. But don’t allow this to be a discouragement! Once you get over that “hump” it gets easier, less painful and actually more convenient as you are not busy making and washing bottles all day! Feedings can become more scheduled (if you choose to do this) and decrease in number. It’s really one of the most miraculous feats God gives your body the ability to do.  I love having that special time and bond with my little one, it’s worth sticking this one out.

My Necessary Basics…for breastfeeding “survival”:

• Lanolin cream
• Breast pump
• (a cute) Nursing cover
• Nursing pads (lots of them)
• (good) Nursing bras
• Emotional support from loved ones!!