Breastfeeding
I am a fan of indiscreet breastfeeding; the more people see babies at the breast, the more normal it will become - Jack Newman
image by: Normalize Breastfeeding
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What's Wrong With Celebrating Breastfeeding?
I am a proud breastfeeder. I had it really hard in the beginning -- my son wouldn't latch and ended up in the NICU, I had to pump (which I hated) before I successfully got him back to the breast, we dealt with a dairy allergy that put me at odds with my pro-formula pediatrician -- so I feel like I'm entitled to be proud. I went through a lot, and now, at 14 months, we are still going strong.
I don't say that to be smug. I don't say that because I think I'm better than anyone else who does not breastfeed. I know that breastfeeding is hard. If it's not your thing, or it's too difficult and focusing on other things would better allow you to enjoy motherhood, I get it. It's not up to…
Resources
Should You Breastfeed if You Have the Coronavirus?
Here’s how to navigate the emerging guidance on breastfeeding in a pandemic.
Are there downsides to ‘breast is best’?
Breastfeeding has many benefits, but some campaigners argue that health policies to encourage the practice could be placing potentially harmful pressures on mothers. Clare Wilson looks at what the evidence says.
From Breastfeeding To Beyoncé, 'Skimmed' Tells A New Story About Black Motherhood
To explain the persistence of lower rates of breastfeeding among black mothers, we should look to systemic and historic factors rather than individual choice. That's the argument of Skimmed: Breastfeeding, Race, and Injustice (Stanford University Press) by law professor Andrea Freeman, which provides in-depth historical, socioeconomic and legal context that sheds new light on black motherhood.
What to know about breastfeeding
There's a lot of misinformation out there, so we cut right to the science.
Will the Tide Ever Turn on Breastfeeding?
Research shows that encouraging all women to breastfeed comes with serious risks. Will our perception of it ever catch up?
Adding Formula to Breast-Feeding May Help Some Newborns
Supplementing breast-feeding with formula may be good for some babies in the early days of life. Exclusive breast-feeding is widely recommended by experts, and rates of breast-feeding have risen. But so have rates of readmission for dehydration and jaundice attributable to inadequate nutrition.
Breastfeeding is not ‘easy’ – stop telling new mothers that it is
Breastfeeding is not easy. It requires women’s time and investment and can be a steep learning curve. However, that’s in no way to say the alternative is any easier. Many women find once they get through the early weeks of breastfeeding they actually find it much easier than bottle feeding. But that still doesn’t make it easy. And that’s OK.
Breastfeeding isn’t just about the baby – women’s bodies matter too
Given the breadth and depth of medical knowledge, why do women still not have answers if they can’t breastfeed? Why do GPs have such little training on the breast, breastfeeding and human milk? Why are women who are struggling left to hunt down their own support, due to cuts in breastfeeding support services? Why? Because for some reason breastfeeding is still seen as a lifestyle choice that women can give or take, rather than it being a primary physiological function of a bodily organ, which helps to protect maternal physical and mental health.
How to Wean Your Child From Breastfeeding
A sudden cessation in nursing can be uncomfortable — for your breasts and for your child. Here’s how to wean your child successfully.
Is Weed Safe When You're Breastfeeding?
There are two important factors: how long THC stays in the bloodstream, and whether it has a negative effect on babies.
The most important lessons from the emotionally charged breastfeeding debate
If you’ve had kids—or are considering having them—you’ve probably heard the mantra “breast is best.” A majority of doctors, along with every major medical group in the US, recommends that moms breastfeed babies exclusively for at least the first six months of their lives. And most major studies show that there are substantive physical and socio-emotional benefits to breastfeeding, for both infants and mothers (paywall).
The Politics of Breastfeeding (And Why It Must Change)
I don’t think it’s controversial that we should want children to be healthy, and if breastfeeding is part of that plan for a family, we as a society should help make it happen. In short, we should help make it possible for women who want to breastfeed and work at the same time to do so.
What to Say When Someone Asks Why You Aren’t Breast-Feeding
It’s a deeply personal question that can challenge a person’s worldview.
What’s a ‘Normal’ Amount of Time to Breastfeed?
It’s a question that often plagues new parents, but clues from our evolutionary past can help explain why we wean and when.
Rise of the Lactivists
I see my body as an instrument, rather than an ornament - Alanis Morissette
Breastfeeding & 10 Things I Wish Somebody Had Told Me About It
10 Things I Wish Somebody Had Told Me About Breastfeeding…or at least, I wish somebody made sure that I was paying attention when they did try to tell me.
Breastfeeding and the Environment
In the past few decades we have become increasingly aware of the need to radically alter our lifestyles in order to draw less upon our natural resources. Breastfeeding is probably the most overlooked means of contributing to the health of our planet.
Breastfeeding May Protect Babies from Arsenic Exposure
The powder and water used to make baby formula may be sources of arsenic, which occurs naturally in the environment and in large doses is linked to serious health problems.
Breastfeeding vs. Formula Feeding
Choosing whether to breastfeed or formula feed their baby is one of the biggest decisions expectant and new parents will make.
Here’s How Many More Babies Would Survive If Breastfeeding Were More Widespread
One of the most effective ways to curb infant mortality rates worldwide is by scaling up the number of mothers who breastfeed, research out of the U.K. concluded.
How Breastfeeding Is Viewed Around the World
Breastfeeding can be a polarizing topic. Though health organizations recommend exclusively breastfeeding for at least six months, there are many reasons women choose not to do so. Views vary not only from person to person, but also country to country, according to a new survey examining women's opinions on breastfeeding.
How to Breastfeed Appropriately
So you've decided to breastfeed. Fantastic! Breastfeeding is a wonderful way to nourish your baby while establishing early bonding. Unfortunately, breast milk comes out of breasts so there are a few ground rules that we need to cover.
How To Support Breastfeeding Moms At Work
Working mothers, especially, face nearly insurmountable barriers when it comes to feeding their babies breastmilk. So much so, that the vast majority of moms who initially breastfed their babies during parental leave (if they’re even of the 14% of the civilian population who receives it), stop doing so once returning to work.
Many Drugs Found Safe for Breast-Feeding Mothers
Breast-feeding mothers can take most prescription drugs without risking their babies' health, though they should try to avoid certain painkillers, psychiatric drugs and herbal treatments, the American Academy of Pediatrics said in a report.
Secrets Of Breast-Feeding From Global Moms In The Know
In many ways, parenting newborns seems instinctual. We see a little baby, and we want to hold her. Snuggle and kiss her. Even just her smell seems magical. Many of us think breast-feeding is similar.
The Case Against Breast-Feeding
In certain overachieving circles, breast-feeding is no longer a choice—it’s a no-exceptions requirement, the ultimate badge of responsible parenting. Yet the actual health benefits of breast-feeding are surprisingly thin, far thinner than most popular literature indicates. Is breast-feeding right for every family? Or is it this generation’s vacuum cleaner—an instrument of misery that mostly just keeps women down?
The case for breastfeeding: what skeptics miss when they call it overrated
Nursing wasn't easy, especially at first. My son's latch was imperfect, and in his early, sleepy days I didn't realize he was sucking ineffectively and slipping into jaundice. Getting back on track required a few days in the hospital, several appointments with a lactation consultant, and the support of my husband and family.
The Misconceptions of Not Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a topic of conversation all over the world for numerous reasons. The biggest disappointment in regards to this topic is how the mothers that choose not to breastfeed are being thrown into the lion's den. Horrific comments are made about how "less of a mother" a woman is for not breastfeeding her child straight from the boob, and mothers that cannot breastfeed their children are being forgotten or shamed by the activists, before being able to explain their actions.
What Breastfeeding Moms All Over The World Have In Common
Though each mom's feeding experience is unique, a new global breastfeeding survey by Lansinoh Laboratories, Inc., highlights which elements of breastfeeding are constant all over the world, and which attitude and habits are not.
What's Wrong With Celebrating Breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding is one of the most beautiful things I've ever experienced. I want to be able to say that without feeling guilty (see, there's enough guilt to go around) for making someone else who doesn't breastfeed feel bad. I want to celebrate it.
10 Steps to Breastfeeding In Public Without Fear
Fortunately, there are many options available to help nursing Mamas feel comfortable feeding their hungry offspring wherever they go.
15 Things They Don't Tell You About Breastfeeding
Maybe you've attended a breastfeeding class, seen the pamphlets in your doctor's office, or done your research online. Whatever the case may be, you've no doubt seen the nutritional superiority of breast milk, that you will lose post-baby pounds faster, and read about the blissful bonding experience with your soon-to-be baby. But here are 15 things they don't tell you about breastfeeding…
19 Works Of Art That Show Breastfeeding Has Always Been Beautiful
With the way breastfeeding mothers are often treated in public, one would think that nursing a baby is some sort of taboo, new age practice. But as this empowering Instagram account shows, that couldn't be further from the truth.
4 Reasons Women Should NEVER Breastfeed in Public
This is a great public service announcement - Beautiful Bellies Doula Care.
5 Women Explain Why They Chose Not to Breastfeed
"It was so painful—I asked them to double check that she wasn't born with teeth."
Normalize Breastfeeding
A breastfeeding awareness media campaign to normalize breastfeeding and address the taboo of public breastfeeding in modern society.
Black Women Do Breastfeed
Our breastfeeding stories and images are not easy to find online. In fact, it would seem as if the story of modern black American women breastfeeding is limited. This blog seeks to highlight the many black mothers in the United States (and beyond) who do indeed breastfeed their children.
Breastfeeding Mama Talk
We are a group of mothers who are passionate about helping mothers reach their personal breastfeeding goals and teaching people about breastfeeding in general. Our goal here is to help you be the best parent you can be using research and knowledge to guide your decision making process. You don't have to agree with us on every topic.
Breastfeeding Medicine
The Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine is an international organization dedicated to the promotion, protection and support of breastfeeding and human lactation. On this blog, members of ABM share their take on breastfeeding-related stories in the news, recent research studies, papers in Breastfeeding Medicine, professional experience managing breastfeeding issues, and other topics.
Breastfeeding Online
Breastfeedingonline.com hopes to help empower women to choose to breastfeed and to educate society at large about the importance and benefits of breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding Reporter Blog
Blog from Nancy Mohrbacher, Lactation consultant, speaker and author of breastfeeding books for parents and professionals, plus the Breastfeeding Solutions smartphone app.
Breastfeeding USA
The mission of Breastfeeding USA is to provide evidence-based breastfeeding information and support, and to promote breastfeeding as the biological and cultural norm.
Chronicles of a Nursing Mom
Informative and sweet, Chronicles of a Nursing Mom showcases not only a mother’s personal breastfeeding journey, but tips and tricks for all moms to use. Jenny, from the Philippines, also discusses more than breastfeeding, but as it’s a central theme, there is plenty for you to peruse as you check out her blog - SheKnows
Lactation Matters
To advance the International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) profession worldwide through leadership, advocacy, professional development, and research.
LactMed
The LactMed® database contains information on drugs and other chemicals to which breastfeeding mothers may be exposed. It includes information on the levels of such substances in breast milk and infant blood, and the possible adverse effects in the nursing infant. Suggested therapeutic alternatives to those drugs are provided, where appropriate.
Native Mothering
Helping Native moms everywhere find info and support for all things related to breastfeeding, mothering, and women's issues.
Nippled
This blog is about natural mothering, natural birth, breastfeeding, intactavism, feminism and fighting for womens - and babies rights.
One Of Those Women
General lactavism and nursing matters.
The Breastfeeding Mother
I always knew I wanted to breastfeed my children. I couldn’t imagine doing it any differently. I was lucky enough to give birth to two beautiful boys and I enjoyed breastfeeding them both. Not that it was easy or without struggle, but it was what I wanted to do and loved doing it.
The Yummy Mummy's Breastfeeding Blog
To boldly breastfeed where no one has breastfed before!
Unlatched
My name is Rachelle Lesteshen and I’m a breastfeeding counselor and advocate based in Columbus, Ohio. I run a growing Facebook page where I provide evidence-based research on breastfeeding and infant formula use. I also expose predatory infant formula company tactics and violations of the WHO Code. My struggles with common “booby traps” cemented my passion for breastfeeding support.
World Breastfeeding Week
World Breastfeeding Week is coordinated by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA), a global network of individuals and organisations concerned with the protection, promotion and support of breastfeeding worldwide based on the Innocenti Declarations, the Ten Links for Nurturing the Future and the WHO/UNICEF Global Strategy for Infant and Young Child Feeding.
Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine
A worldwide organization of physicians dedicated to the promotion, protection and support of breastfeeding and human lactation.
International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners
World health transformed through breastfeeding and skilled lactation care.
International Lactation Consultant Association
The International Lactation Consultant Association® (ILCA®) is the member association for International Board Certified Lactation Consultants® (IBCLC®) and other healthcare professionals who care for breastfeeding families. ILCA membership is open to all who support and promote breastfeeding
United States Breastfeeding Committee
The United States Breastfeeding Committee (USBC) is an independent nonprofit coalition of more than 100 influential professional, educational, and governmental organizations that share a common mission to drive collaborative efforts for policy and practices that create a landscape of breastfeeding support across the United States.
United States Lactation Consultant Association
The United States Lactation Consultant Association (USLCA) is the professional association for International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) and other health care professionals who care for breastfeeding families.
World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action
WABA is a global network of individuals & organisations concerned with the protection, promotion & support of breastfeeding worldwide.
HealthyChildren.org
Feeding your infant provides more than just good nutrition. It also gives you a chance to hold your newborn close, cuddle him, and make eye contact. These are relaxing and enjoyable moments for you both, and they bring you closer together emotionally.
Parents
There's a lot to learn about the basics of breastfeeding a baby. Discover the benefits of breastfeeding, best breastfeeding positions, and more. Also be sure to check out our section on Breastfeeding Tips and Breast Pumping.
TheBump.com
The information you need to know now when it comes to breastfeeding baby. Get tips on prepping, pumping, managing feedings while traveling with your little one and much more.
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