Breastfeeding... the easy choice. So why is it so hard?!

American Academy of Pediatrics currently recommends breastfeeding for 6months.  Your friends (who all of a sudden think you want their unsolicited advice about parenting) told you “breast is best,” your doctor told you, and now your baby’s pediatrician tells you too, and they are all correct, breast milk is the best choice –but it is also a harder commitment to keep then they may lead on. 
First, it seems the most natural option.  But when you’re exhausted and sleep deprived, your natural instinct is not to serve up breast to your screaming newborn.  Pop the lid on that ready-to-go bottle of formula and screw on a nipple, baby is magically silent –now that you have learned to do that switch with 1 hand in less than 4seconds!  Why does mommy give baby a bottle, over a breast?  Because the feeding is faster, and when baby gets fed faster, mommy gets back to sleep faster.  Breastfeeding takes a lot more effort from your little angel then you may know.  They end up falling asleep at your breast before getting their fill and then they are up again –hungry- earlier than they otherwise would have been. 
Second, it’s the easy option.  Is it actually easy to breast feed?  Giving from your breast may sound easier than pouring formula into a bottle.  However, breastfeeding comes with its very own list of complications.  Baby may have trouble latching –but that can easily be resolved with the help of a lactation consultant while you’re still in the hospital.  On the otherhand, your baby might get the hang of it immediately and you’ll learn just how much toothless gums can actually hurt.  To compliment the initial discomfort, keep in mind that breast feeding releases oxytocin which stimulates uterine contraction.  We want uterine contraction after delivery, this is a good thing, just be prepared again for the discomfort –I know what you’re thinking, “discomfort” is just about everywhere in the prenatal/post partum period.  Along with the above is dry, cracked nipples (prone to infection), mastitis and ductal blocks. 
Ok, now it sounds like I’m just bad-mouthing breastfeeding.  I’m not!  I’m an advocate for it, it’s the best for your baby.  I just think moms should honestly be better prepared for what they are going to face.  One woman I know, complained about breastfeeding, but the thing that kept her committed was that someone else said she wouldn’t be able to handle it. Ha!  I think this is so funny, but she was aware of how difficult the commitment would ultimately be and she took that challenge on, fully informed and breastfed both her babies for 13months!
Let’s not sugar coat things.  Mommies are the strongest super heroes!  They will endure and survive it all for their babies, so I think they can handle the truth about breast feeding. ;)

~Cradle and All, LLC *Cribside Care for Baby, Peace of Mind for Mommy*

www.cradlemybaby.com