Breastfeeding Support 101

"My head was spinning with all the advice I received after I had my first child, even though I asked for some of it," says MaryBeth Larosa of Granby, Connecticut. "I realized that I had to use my newly acquired mom's intuition. I had to stop listening to others and start listening and looking for signs from my baby."

"It's a myth that breastfeeding is instinctive," says Lebbing, "But it doesn't need to be hard." You can have a positive breastfeeding experience with knowledge. Whether that knowledge comes through books, magazines, Internet searches, or an education class, that is up to you. A support person can give you the extra support and guidance that may be just what you need!

Additional Resources and Support

A wealth of resources a support can be found for nursing moms online and in your community. Here are just a few ideas to get you started.

• La Leche League International (LLL): For advice, online chats, information from mothers for mothers, and general FAQs, the LLL is one of the most important resources for any nursing mom. Resources include information on working and nursing, how-to guides, and up-to-date breastfeeding laws.
• Your local hospital: Be sure to visit your local hospital either online or in person and ask to speak with the staff lactation consultant. The maternity ward can also offer you help in tracking down support for any breastfeeding issues you have. (Some hospitals offer breastfeeding classes or pamphlets to expecting families.)
• Your Pediatrician: Your baby's pediatrician can direct you to local support centers, consultants, and additional breastfeeding resources. Some pediatric offices may even be able to put you in touch with other breastfeeding mothers.
• Your local university: Check with your local university's childcare or family services center. Many campuses host support groups, are affiliated with lactations consultants and/or doctors, and/or offer literature and other services to help nursing moms.