Breastfeeding

Alternative names:

lactation; nursing

Side effects:

Moms who breastfeed may experience:

• nipple soreness
• breast engorgement
• leaking breasts
• let-down reflex (other than during breastfeeding)
• inadequate milk supply
• difficulty knowing how much milk the baby is drinking

Moms who breastfeed their babies may feel:

• confused by lack of experience or support
• afraid or ashamed to ask for help for such a "natural" activity
• overwhelmed by the time commitment
• exhausted by the frequent feedings (every 2 to 3 hours, day and night)
• socially isolated from other relationships and activities
• frightened by conflicting emotions of enjoyment and resentment

Note: Cow's milk by itself is not an adequate source of complete nutrition for infants. Commercially prepared formulas for bottle feeding are excellent sources of nutrition for babies that do not breastfeed.