Rockville Lactation
Lynnette Hafken, MA, IBCLC
If you’re in the early stages of learning how to breastfeed, you may be wondering “WHY AM I DOING THIS? It hurts,* I’m leaking everywhere, I feel trapped in a chair, and I’m constantly worried about my milk supply.”
I hear you, and it’s ok to feel that way. You’re not the only one! If you are conflicted about continuing, or just want to hear that there’s a light at the end of the tunnel, here are ten reasons why you may want to consider pushing through the difficulties.
*It shouldn’t hurt, and there’s help available...but sometimes it just does, and it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re doing it wrong. For most mothers, it gets better over time.
- After about four to six weeks, many mothers report that they have gotten through the hard parts and are glad they persevered.
- Seeing your baby gain weight and thrive on your milk is incredibly satisfying.
- Soon you’ll have the heart-melting experience of your baby unlatching, smiling at you, and then diving back in to nurse more.
- Breastmilk has IgA antibodies that reduce your baby’s risk of respiratory, gastrointestinal, and middle ear infections, and breastfeeding is an easy way to keep him hydrated when he’s sick.
- It’s a great excuse to take your baby back from pushy family members (not that you need an excuse)!
- When babies are breastfed until they’re saying words (around a year), they make up adorable ways to tell you they want to nurse.
- Most breastfeeding problems are solvable with expert help (cough); you’ve already put so much effort in, you may as well see if things can improve.
- It’s really cool that your body can make food!
- There are many breastfeeding positions that are relaxing and hands-free (really!).
- Your baby looks super cute snuggled up to your breast. [back]