9 Reasons I Breastfeed (& helpful links)

Even before Enoch was born, we made the decision to breastfeed our children.  For us it was a pretty easy decision (my mom nursed me, our midwife and doulas encouraged it, etc.), but I realize that for some it may not be such an easy decision.  So I thought I'd post some of our top reasons:

1. It's the healthiest option for babies
2. The milk is always ready and warm, with no prep required
3. It's God's given means for nourishing infants
4. I can eat a few extra calories daily without feeling guilty (300-500 to be exact)
5. Time is set aside for me to rest while nursing (important for busy moms!)
6. Enoch's meal is always ready and easily portable ;)
7. I have more incentive to eat healthy
8. It has bonded Enoch and I more than any other parental activity
9. Did I mention that the milk is always ready?  And there's no clean up!

Here's a list of 101 Reasons to Breastfeed, some are similar to ours, but many of their reasons are well informed and specific, like the relationship between breastfeeding and lower rates of specific cancers for mom and baby.

From what I've read and from talking to a few different Lactation Consultants, an incredibly high percentage of moms can breastfeed if they stick with it and have the necessary support/information to help them through nursing struggles and challenges.  I have faced issues such as oversupply, soreness, and even a baby who bit for a little over a month, but as each issue arose, we worked through it patiently with the help of different lactation consultants, experienced moms, and information on the web (see below).  I would encourage any mamas who are experiencing difficulties nursing to ask for help.  Most problems are overcome-able!  :)

I highly recommend KellyMom for trying to solve breastfeeding dilemmas.  She has tons of information and advice for so many different nursing problems.  La Leche League is a good resource too, although I prefer the in-person meetings to their website, but that's just me.  :)

If you are a mama who has chosen to use formula (whether fully or as a supplement), please don't view this as condemnation.  Like I said above, it does seem like most but not all mamas can exclusively breastfeed.  Sometimes the hardships of sticking with nursing can outweigh the benefits to your baby, but I would think that those cases are rare.  Working through breastfeeding challenges sometimes does require lifestyle changes (major & minor), and making those choices/changes is something only you and your husband can decide for your family.  Either way, if you are someone you know is having a hard time nursing, seeking help from a certified lactation consultant (available at most hospitals where babies are delivered, some larger pediatric clinics, and some county welfare offices) is the best approach to understanding options and getting sound advice.  From my experience pediatricians are NOT as knowledgeable regarding breastfeeding issues and solutions (more on that and how we overcame our nursing issues later).

*photo above from KellyMom.com