I learned to breastfeed with the help of my midwives and a friend who is a midwife as well as in our pre-natal class run by an wonderful experienced Doula.  I had also read a fair amount on the subject.   I felt very supported – from my husband, my midwives, and my friends (especially those who already had children).

I have had a few people stare at me with an odd expression on their face but no one has ever approached me with anything negative to say. I breastfeed pretty much anywhere if I need to.  For example, my daughter got very hungry after being in the car for awhile and started getting upset while we were in Best Buy.  Luckily I was wearing a nursing tank top, so could cradle her to feed while walking around.

My breastfeeding experience has been even more positive than I imagined.  Many mothers I know had a range of challenges – from initial nursing challenges to cracked nipples.  I have been so fortunate to have things go very well.

My advice to a new mom:

• Keep trying and to seek out help if things are going well  (breastfeeding clinics, La Leche League, public or private lactation consultants, doulas, mom’s groups etc.
• Be secure in your decision not to breastfeed if you have had a rough time without support and/or are one of the few women with low milk supply.