by
Anonymous
Atlanta, GA August 16, 2004 -- Ninety percent of American mothers prematurely stop breastfeeding their babies, primarily due to the added stress at what is already a very challenging time of life. Mary Kay Smith, a board-certified lactation consultant with breast pump manufacturer Whisper Wear, Inc. (www.whisperwear.com) says that it doesn’t have to be that way.
“American mothers are finally catching up with the rest of the world when it comes to breastfeeding initiation rates” says Smith. “However, the incredibly active lifestyle of the typical American mom combines with workplace and cultural issues to often make continuance of breastfeeding beyond just a few weeks (worldwide norms are 3 years breastfeeding) quite intimidating and challenging.”
Smith, who has been helping breastfeeding mothers for over 25 years, offers these 5 Keys to successfully extending the term of breastfeeding:
1.
Learn – Knowing what to expect when starting to breastfeed is key to removing anxiety from wondering if all is going well. Moms should attend a class on breastfeeding or read up on the topic on their own.
2.
Share – Spouses, employers, siblings and others should be made aware in advance of their roles in supporting mom in breastfeeding.
3.
Prepare – Shop for breastfeeding supplies, such as pillows, breast pumps, and brassieres by the third trimester to allow familiarization with them prior to use.
4.
Be Patient – It can take up to several weeks to establish a good milk supply and to move past early latch-on and comfort challenges. Not rushing matters or getting too easily frustrated will help in every respect.
5.
Enjoy – breastfeeding is proven both medically and psychologically beneficial for both mother and baby. Relish the fact that overcoming early challenges will provide lifelong reward and a bonding experience like no other.
Atlanta breast pump manufacturer Whisper Wear, Inc. (www.whisperwear.com) specializes in supporting active mothers in their decision to breastfeed by providing innovative, lifestyle-focused products available nationwide.
Mary Kay Smith, RN, IBCLC is a noted lactation consultant, speaker and author who has helped thousands of mothers breastfeed successfully. Currently, she travels the country training medical and lactation professionals on the usage and benefits of the totally hands-free Whisper Wear breast pump. Mary Kay can be reached at 770-310-3564 or marykays@whisperwear.com.
This article courtesy of http://www.breastfeedingsource.info.
You may freely reprint this article on your website
or in your newsletter provided this courtesy notice
and the author name and URL remain intact.
