During pregnancy, many women contemplate whether they will breastfeed their newborns. The mindset of “I’ll give it a try and see how it goes” is common. However, what many may not realize is that establishing a successful breastfeeding relationship can take some effort. The good news is that almost all challenges faced by new moms in the early days of breastfeeding can be resolved with the right support and information. By having access to quality resources, a mother can set a strong foundation for her breastfeeding journey.
Types of Breastfeeding Support Available
In most communities, there are numerous breastfeeding resources available. Support can range from a neighbor who has successfully breastfed her children to a certified lactation consultant qualified to assist mothers with complex breastfeeding issues.
Here are some key resources you can utilize or contact:
- Postpartum Doulas: These women support new families in the days and weeks following the arrival of a baby. They typically possess some training in general breastfeeding support and often have a list of additional resources for more serious issues.
- La Leche League (LLL): This organization champions breastfeeding by offering support groups led by experienced mothers. These “leaders” have successfully breastfed their children and provide encouragement and assistance to others. They offer help via phone and through local community support groups that usually meet monthly.
- Lactation Consultants/Breastfeeding Counselors: Your local hospital, pregnancy center, or health department may employ individuals known as “lactation consultants” or breastfeeding counselors. They frequently work with new moms and are trained to help with initial breastfeeding support and common concerns.
- Board-Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC): An IBCLC is a lactation specialist who has undergone rigorous training and examination to qualify as someone who can provide extensive support for complicated breastfeeding issues. Hospitals often have IBCLCs on staff or may offer breastfeeding support centers staffed by these specialists.
What Kind of Breastfeeding Support Do You Need?
Breastfeeding assistance is unique to each woman. Sometimes, a new mom might only need someone to stand by her and affirm her ability to breastfeed her baby. In such cases, a postpartum doula, La Leche League leader, a breastfeeding counselor, or even a close friend might be all the support she requires. However, if issues seem more complicated or if a mother feels overwhelmed, it’s important to reach out to someone who can help identify solutions. This could be a lactation counselor or a leader from La Leche League, or even a certified lactation specialist should problems persist.
If you are pregnant and considering breastfeeding, gathering these contacts in advance can be beneficial so you can reach out as soon as you’re home from the hospital. Early support and prompt detection of any issues are crucial for overcoming most breastfeeding challenges.
Additional Resources for Breastfeeding
- La Leche League: A great support network for breastfeeding mothers.
- Local WIC Office: They often provide breastfeeding support and resources.
- National Breastfeeding Helpline: Call 1-800-994-9662 for assistance in English and Spanish.
- KellyMom: A comprehensive website created by an IBCLC, filled with articles on breastfeeding.
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In summary, whether you’re a new mom seeking breastfeeding support or exploring options for conception, there are a variety of resources available to help. From local organizations to online platforms, you can find the assistance you need to navigate your parenting journey successfully. For further insights on family-related topics, check out Modern Family Blog, an authority in this area.