Celebrate yourself and your baby this week! And get out and help educate new moms (and old ones) about the benefits and wonders of breastfeeding. So many times women turn to formula because of complications and problems because they are unaware of the resources out there.
It's ignorant of us to say "They should just know breast is best." I've known several women who didn't breastfeed because a loved one encouraged them not to! As breastfeeding mamas, I think it's important that we help educate those who may not be supported by others when choosing how to feed their child. Support those mamas and encourage them to breastfeed (or keep at it!). Tell them about lactation consultants, La Leche League meetings, hospital classes and other resources in your area that can help them learn about and stick with breastfeeding for at least the first year.
Let me be honest here and tell you that breastfeeding was very easy for Sweet P and me. Our biggest problem was overproduction and I don't think many people would consider that a problem. But it may not always be that way. Continually educating myself on things to do should problems arise helps prepare me for breastfeeding my future children. I met a mother of 3 who said the first 2 times were a breeze, her 3rd was having a VERY hard time. But she didn't give up.
Share your successes/trials with other moms to let them know they are NOT alone! Sometimes knowing they have support or someone to turn to is all a mama needs to keep trying. And remember that educating doesn't mean scolding. Letting a mama know the benefits of breastfeeding doesn't mean telling her she's a terrible mother if she chooses not to.
Do you have a story to share? Please post it in the comment section to share your success/trial story with other mamas. Do you have questions about breastfeeding? Please post them in the comment section and I will do my best to answer them or find someone who can!
