World Breastfeeding Week

In honor of World Breastfeeding Week, which actually ends tomorrow (apologies for being behind schedule) I am posting some links to articles about breastfeeding. Being pregnant, I can't help anticipating what it will be like to nurse yet again.
My feelings are overwhelmingly positive- it is a wonderful way to bond and connect to your baby, it is free and easily accessable. I love the ability to go out anytime and not have to worry about bringing along bottles, snacks or other accessories for the first six months. It is an amazing feeling to know that you are nourishing a child and that all the cute babyfat they are accumulating- the cheeks, the chin, the thighs have come from you :) Not to mention all the health benefits babies get from breastmilk.
At the same time, as easy as it is, it can sometimes feel limiting because the baby relies solely on you. Unless you are pumping, it is all you all the time and going out for an extended period of time without the baby needs advance planning. So does trying to sleep more than 3 or 4 hours stretches at a time in the beginning. Not to mention moms who have problems with their milk supply or who have to cut foods out of their diets because their babies aren't tolerating them. So it is not always simple and straightforward. I saw a quote on facebook that said: "While breastfeeding may not seem the right choice for every parent, it is the best choice for every baby"
I believe that to be true. While it may be hard for us mommies sometimes, it is definitely the right choice for your baby.
Click here to see some Tips for Breastfeeding from Brio Birth, a childbirth education organization.
Also check out Dr. Sears' website- He is a pediatrician for over 30 years and a father of eight children. His site has great information on pregnancy, birth, children's health, discipline and lots of other great topics. Worth a look is his extensive section on breastfeeding and its benefits- Why Breast is Best.
Lastly, for more info about what exactly World Breastfeeding Week is, check out their official site.
That should be more than enough talk about nursing for now- but feel free to comment with more info or links if you have any!