Infancy - Surviving Breast Feeding - Social Emotional

1. Do your homework

   Take a class at your hospital (or another local hospital if yours doesn’t offer one). Bring your partner or support person with you so that he or she fully understands what you will be going through and how to help.  

2. Find support

   Breastfeeding is a whole lot easier when you surround yourself with people who understand. .  Many hospitals host breastfeeding support groups.

3. Keep track

   It is helpful to track when, for how long, and from which breast your baby eats.  Tracking helps to feel confident that your baby is getting enough and encourages to at the breast a bit longer.  

   Be patient

   Although the pain and soreness may be frustrating, it is important to remain patient and not get stressed when your baby is not feeding properly or it is not working out. If you are relaxed, it is more likely that the baby will be relaxed and grasp/latch on more easily