World Breastfeeding Week

I don't usually use the blog as a platform to voice my personal beliefs (other than the fact that my baby is cute), but in becoming a mama I've found my mama-bear voice. Every mother wants to do what is best for her baby, and for me that included breastfeeding Jonah. As part of World Breastfeeding Week, I wanted to share my story for my pregnant readers (RC and JR), soon to be pregnant reader (KK), and one day in the future readers (no need to rush CG, SF, RG, LS) and also to extend my support to you if you do choose to breastfeed. The support I was fortunate to have made all the difference for me, especially in the first few days. It is amazing to know that my body has sustained Jonah's life for all 14 months of his existence.



While I always imagined that I would breastfeed, it wasn't until I became pregnant and really started reading about other's experiences that I realized that it wasn't always something that came easily for mothers. I went into labor hoping that my body would do what it was designed to do, but aware that it may be difficult. I am so thankful to have had support and encouragement - definitely in the first few days from Mama and Justin. Because of them Jonah and I were able to establish a good routine and breastfeeding has been a wonderful experience for us. In fact, I've found I've become an amatuer "lactavist" hoping to share my positive experience with others so they too can be successful!



The World Health Organization and American Academy of Pediatrics recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months of life (which is why you haven't seen a post about food yet!) and then continued breastfeeding until at least the age of one. That goal doesn't seem so lofty as we cross over into the 5th month, but we'll take it day by day keeping Jonah's best interest as the basis of our decision.

Happy World Breastfeeding Week!

8/3/10 Edit: I found this article that pretty much says what I wanted to say (and then some) but way more eloquently.