Breastfeeding

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Medical Author:

Allahyar Jazayeri, MD, PhD

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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• Introduction to Breastfeeding
• Comparison With Formula-Feeding
• Benefits of Breastfeeding
• Prepare for Breastfeeding
• First Feedings
• Positioning and Latch-on Skills
• Milk Production
• Home and Medical Care
• For More Information
• Web Links
• Multimedia
• Synonyms and Keywords
• Authors and Editors
• Read more on Breastfeeding from Healthwise

Breastfeeding or bottle feeding your newborn baby is a personal decision. If you choose to breastfeed, it will be helpful if you are in a supportive environment and have resources to assist you with questions you may have or breastfeeding problems that may develop. The following breastfeeding tips may also be helpful:

• Consider attending a series of La Leche League meetings or reading La Leche League's book on breastfeeding (The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding) before the birth of your baby.
• Ask other breastfeeding mothers for advice.
• Join a supportive network including other like-minded mothers helps with the commitments of this style of feeding.
• If you are undecided at birth time, consider a one-month trial. It is easy to go from breastfeeding to bottle-feeding.
• The first month of breastfeeding is the most difficult, so if you get through that period, the rest will be easier.

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