Are breastfed babies healthier?
Breastfeeding babies help them to develop a normal immune system, which helps them remain healthy as adults. Babies that are breastfed are less likely to be sick with ear infections, colds, pneumonia, diarrhea, vomiting, meningitis and other illnesses. These babies also have a lower risk of crib death, fewer allergies, less diaper rash and fewer cavities. Studies have shown that breastfeeding babies help them to become more intelligent.

Breastfeeding has healthy benefits for mom too. Mothers who breastfeed their babies are less likely to be anemic. They are less likely to become pregnant right away, have breast cancer later in life or develop future bone problems. And breastfeeding helps mothers to lose weight , especially if they breastfeed for longer than six months.
 

I don't think that I want to breastfeed around other people.
During the first few weeks of learning to breastfeed, it may be difficult to breastfeed modestly. As soon as you and your baby are more skillful, you will be able to breastfeed modestly anywhere. Just wear T-shirts, sweatshirts or sweaters than pull up from the waist. A light blanket can also help cover you, so that it will look like you are just holding your baby. Practice at home in front of a mirror. When you are out, you can breastfeed in a booth at a restaurant, rather than at a table in the center of the room. If you prefer complete privacy, you can always breastfeed your baby in the dressing room of a store.
 

I've heard that some mothers don't have enough milk. Will that happen to me?
Breastfeeding is part of the wonder of nature. You provided your baby the food needed during pregnancy; and you will be able to do the same while you are breastfeeding. Except in the most rare circumstance, a mother will be able to meet her baby's nutritional needs with breastfeeding. The usual reasons milk supply decrease are your baby isn't emptying the milk from your breast adequately or because the breastfeedings are too infrequent. Establish and maintain your milk supply by breastfeeding every three hours, even during the night to keep your milk from drying up. And it's really not much trouble to breastfeed that often. It is quick and easy - no bottles to warm or wash! Also, don't smoke, as that causes you to make less milk.
 

Do I have to stop breastfeeding when I go back to work?
While the first few weeks of breastfeeding are a time of learning and require considerable effort, breastfeeding becomes quite easy and enjoyable by the time you return to work. Many new moms find that they are not anxious to end the breastfeeding relationship. They also would prefer that their babies continue to have the protection against infection that breastfeeding gives their babies - especially if their baby will be in a group care situation.
It is possible to continue breastfeeding even after returning to work. The keys to success are having a high quality breast pump and having a place and the time to use a breast pump at work.

If you absolutely can't pump at work, you can continue to breastfeed in the mornings, evenings, and days off. Keep in mind that your milk supply will decrease and eventually your baby may prefer the bottle.

To learn more about which feeding your baby, attend the "Basics of Baby Feeding" class at Mercy.
 

Will breastfeeding make my breasts sag?
There will be some changes in your breasts as you get older. This is from pregnancy, changes in your weight, aging and hereditary patterns. Breastfeeding doesn't make these changes any worse.
 

How can I help my baby's father to not feel left out while I breastfeed?
There is no reason for a dad to be left out of any part of baby's life. He has an important role to play. Involve you partner with all aspects of care: awakening baby for feedings, helping you position the baby comfortably, helping baby stay awake to feed well during the breastfeeding, burping, comforting, rocking, diapering, bathing, playing, teaching. Some Dads also enjoy giving the baby an occasional bottle of mother's milk.

Dads are grateful for your baby's good health, which is enhanced by breastfeeding. And your baby benefits from having two parents actively participating in their care.
 

Can I become pregnant while breastfeeding?
Although breastfeeding at least six to eight times each day helps prevent pregnancy, it is not 100% effective. If your baby goes longer than three hours between breastfeedings, or uses a pacifier a lot, or eats formula or baby food, you are likely to get pregnant unless you take precautions.
 

How do I create the same bonding experience through bottle-feeding as I do through breastfeeding?
Feeding your baby is important for nutritional reasons, of course. But feedings are also a very important way of communicating your love to your baby. These are times for holding, cuddling, talking and getting acquainted. Take your time with feedings, rather than rushing through them, so that they are enjoyable for both you and your baby.

Remember to make eye contact with your baby during feedings and hold your baby close to your body, in the crook of your elbow.

Never prop a bottle. Not only is this a very lonely way to eat, but it is dangerous. A baby may choke on the milk and have no one available to help. Propping bottles also increases baby's risk of ear infections and severe tooth decay.