From an interview with
Dr. Meghan Jordan
McLeod Pediatric Associates of Florence – West

It may be a bit difficult for a new mother to start breastfeeding, but success brings many benefits to the child and mother, as McLeod Pediatrician Dr. Meghan Jordan explains.

Here is a summary of Dr. Jordan’s remarks:
Breastfeeding is a natural thing to do, but it doesn’t always come naturally. Many new moms think that it’s just going to happen. Yet, it can be intimidating when Mom realizes that it not only takes time for her to learn how to breastfeed, but it also takes time for the baby to learn how to breastfeed. Many new mothers get very stressed and nervous with breastfeeding worries, such as possible pain or not enough milk for the baby, especially early on while the mother is waiting for her milk to come in. In those early weeks of breastfeeding, the most important action a new mother can take is to ask for help. The woman can find assistance and information from her pediatrician or a certified lactation consultant at McLeod.

Breastfeeding your infant for at least two months or longer protects the new baby against SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). Breastfeeding also has many other benefits to the baby, including a decreased risk of asthma and obesity later in life, a decreased risk of ear infections and gastrointestinal illnesses. There are also many benefits to breastfeeding mothers, including a decreased risk of breast or ovarian cancer, a decreased risk of developing type two diabetes or high blood pressure later in life.

I think it’s important for all new mothers to realize, that we all have individual breastfeeding goals. It’s very important for a new mother to identify her goals for breastfeeding —  how long you want to breastfeed or how you want to do it. Then, see your doctor or a lactation consultant and come up with a plan to reach those goals for you and your baby.

Find a Pediatrician near you.