The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding summary

You’re probably already aware of the old slogan “breast is best.” Breastfeeding provides a variety of benefits to both you and your baby. The nutritional balance of breastmilk is ideally suited to meet the needs of a growing child.

Besides nutrients, breast milk also provides your baby with his first protection against germs and infection. It also contains secretory immunoglobulin A, which prevents the intestines from passing through germs and allergens. Breastmilk also includes pancreatic secretory trypsin inhibitor, which helps the baby’s intestines to be safe and strong.

Breastfeeding comes with its own set of myths and misinformation. 

Many women with small breasts are concerned that they won’t be able to breastfeed. The good news is, there’s no correlation between size of breasts and quantity of milk. So yes, you can breastfeed.

Now that we’ve established that you can breastfeed with a variety of breast shapes, let’s talk about complications. There are many obstacles to breastfeeding that can be overcome with knowledge and experience.

One of the biggest fears women have is pain. The fact is, breastfeeding should not cause you pain. There may be some chafing and stinging in the early days, but it should absolutely not hurt or injure you.

The world is full of the kind of advice that is generally harmless, but also false. When it comes to breastfeeding, you’ll hear a lot of opinions on how long you breastfeed or when to change breasts. Here are the facts:

You can breastfeed as long as you and your baby want. Most experts recommend six months of exclusive breastfeeding and up to two years of breastfeeding while initiating other food. Go with what feels right for you and your baby.

One of the great things about breastfeeding is the portability. You don’t need a lot of accessories.

La Leche League was formed in response to the lack of support women were receiving for breastfeeding. As a result, there is now plenty of easily accessible information available to breastfeeding women, as well as supportive groups.

However, a mother’s most important network is the family and friends around her, particularly her partner, if she has one.

Breastfeeding can be a challenge, but it has so many rewards and benefits to both you and your baby. Most challenges can be overcome and breastfeeding can be achieved in spite of many different complications. Because you’re prioritizing your baby’s needs, you may end up neglecting your own. That’s where it pays to have a strong, supportive community and/or partner to help you through the process. If you have faith in your body and lean on the experts for support, breastfeeding can be the most beautiful season of your life.