Sunday, April 13, 2008

Breastfeeding class...yikes...

Yesterday was the first of two classes that we are attending at the hospital in preparation for Lily. It was very informative. And while I found it a valuable experience...I can't say it relieved all of my breastfeeding fears. But at least I don't feel like I'm going into it completely ignorant anymore.

Most comforting thing I learned: Breastfeeding shouldn't hurt (tender breasts aside). If it hurts, you're doing it wrong. Check the latch.

Least comforting thing I learned: She kept saying it will probably take at least a month to get the hang of it! I had previously heard two weeks...a month+ seems a tad overwhelming.

18 comments:

Mommydew said...

If you need any support on this please call me. I think breastfeeding is so wonderful. My friend's advice and for my first one it was true, 3 weeks. Grit your teeth for three weeks and you've got it. With my second it was less than 3 days.
On a side note, you two are so cute. Thank your husband for me for entertaining Lathen today at church.

Jami said...

That's great you're taking a class. I wish I had the first time, there's so much people don't tell you. Don't be nervous about breastfeeding, you'll both "get the hang of it" and then there's nothing to it - it's the greatest thing ever.

Mardi said...

Don't worry about it - you and Lily will work together to get the hang of it. It'll hopefully be a great experience for you - it has been for Eli and me.

Brittany said...

It is seriously one of the hardest things ever - but definitely worth it! I don't think anybody can really explain how much commitment it takes, but as long as you have realistic expectations (knowing that it is not easy), you'll do great! I lasted a year with both my boys (even while working full time), and am so glad I did it.

Kathryn said...

Plan on it hurting a bit for the first couple of days. However, your olive skin will help. It's still the best experience ever to watch yourself nourish your baby!

Stephie said...

I loved it too. It is wonderful for baby health and bonding. You'll do great!

Unknown said...

Mikel- you are so good to take classes. I was just hoping the nurses would help me, and that they did. They were amazingly helpful!! I think Bodie and I got it down with no pain and he is 2 1/2 weeks old. I think it is such an amazing thing, just time consuming but what better to do with your time!! Good luck!

Mike & Rachel Barton said...

The lanolin saved my life. It definitely hurt for the first little while but it totally gets better and it is a special bonding time. Make sure you get to see a lactation specialist because sometimes the nurses don't have a clue about what they're talking about. I had a really hard time in the hospital and was afraid I wouldn't be able to nurse, but after I saw the specialist and got home .. it was easier right away. You'll do great and I'm way excited for you!

Sally said...

Two words from one who doesn't have a clue: Good luck! :D

Parkinson Family said...

seeing all the wonderful comments you have received i'll keep the trend going. You'll love your baby and you will do anything for them, including nursing :) lol

Parkinson Family said...

p.s. the wii game is called wario ware, as david would say, its a crazy fun game with lots of wacky mini games

Kathryn said...

Mikel, I sent your dad a belated birthday card Saturday. I'm going to come to Texas the middle of June. I want to visit with my Bro and help you with any thing you need. I think I need to start by building you another room!?

Amanda said...

It took Emily and me about three weeks to get it down to where both of us were comfortable with it. It was frustrating at first because I had an idea of how it should be going in my head, but the baby didn't want to cooperate! It was definitely worth the struggle though. I love it now. Make sure you get some Lansinoh before she's born. I don't know what I would have done without it.

Brittany said...

Mik-for the bedding set, check out nurserydepot.com. It's called Secret Garden by Lambs & Ivy. They have the best price I've seen.

Kathryn said...

Mikel, I was thinking Monday,June 16th through the 19th. Since Father's Day is on the 15th, I should wait to leave until after that. I did want to see your Mom however. How does that work for you? Your dad said I could stay with him. Do you know if you are going to have a C section yet? If so, what date will that date be?

Lauren said...

One thing I love about breastfeeding is that it's built in reading time! My scripture study has never been better.

Unknown said...

I love breastfeeding too, there is just something so connecting to your little baby about it. I would be so sad if I couldn't have that...but that said, the first month is kind of rough...

Susan said...

Mikel, you'll do great! It does take some getting used too, but don't stress about it too much now. You and Lily may get it right away or it may take awhile, but either way you'll manage! It's great that you took the class and are prepared to give it some work and time if need be. Gracie and I had latch problems, so we used a shield and it worked..it wasn't ideal, but it worked! The nurses at the hospital will help you and then if you're still having problems once you come home, go see a lactation consultant - mine was a lifesaver!