All of us here at CBC are or have been breastfeeding moms! We have devoted this page to breastfeeding because there are so many questions that come up on a daily basis from moms with children of all ages who are breastfeeding.
We offer continuous breastfeeding support after your baby is born. We don't want you to be frustrated or have unanswered questions. We will happily refer you to a lactation consultant if we are not making any progress helping you.
We know by now you have probably read a dozen books about labor, birth, infant care, and breastfeeding and a few other topics. We strongly recommend you read the Womanly Art of Breastfeeding by La Leche League. If you are planning on Tandem Nursing they also have a book titled Adventures in Tandem Nursing. Both are extremely informative and answer lots of questions.
The following is an exerpt from the World Health Organization Paper on Breastfeeding March 2001:
"The Expert Consultation recommends exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, with introduction of complementary foods and continued breastfeeding thereafter. This recommendation applies to populations."
The American Academy of Pediatrics has also adopted this guideline and hopefully most pediatricians are following this very wise conclusion! It is also recommended you breastfeed as long as your baby wants and you are willing. After age one it is very easy to get on a regular schedule andyou will find it much easier to plan your day or pump so breastmilk can be given whileyou are away.
If you want your partner to be involved in feeding your infant you do want to introduce a bottle after 2 weeks. The 2 week time period allows you to get more comfortable with breastfeeding, establish your milk supply and learn what your little one likes. Always have your partner get the baby, change the diaper and bring baby to you. That is a special way of bringng the family together at feedings. If you plan on doing alot of pumping and storing, invest in a good double electric breastpump. Also investing in the plastic milk storage bags for frig and freezer are a must. Make sure you date and time each bag saved.
