When I was pregnant with my first son, I read books on pregnancy, I read books on labour, I read books on pain relief… and then feverently in the last few weeks, when I had NOTHING ELSE TO READ, I read books on breastfeeding.

And I’m so thankful every day, that I invested my last few quiet moments, learning how to nourish my son, in the most natural, and health providing way – here’s why:

• Breastfeeding is a learned skill. While we’re told it’s easy and natural, it’s a new skill, and like anything new, the more you know, the easier it is.
• It prepared me to acknowledge and accept that both my son and I were learning, and helped me be patient.
• I was VERY aware of good attachment, and knew what to look for.
• I had read about common complications, and how  to address them.
• I was empowered enough to ask for help, when I had breast lumps.
• I understood that my supply would regulate, and contrary to the advice of my mother or grandmother, No, my milk was not drying up….
• I knew to watch out for mastitis, and ask for help if I needed it.
• I was confident as a mother coming in to breastfeeding, to just accept that not everyone would accept it, but everyone would have advice!

Some of the books I read were:

• Breastfeeding Naturally from www.breastfeeding.asn.au
• Breastfeeders Anonymous from www.breastfeedersanonymous.com
• Well Adjusted Babies from www.welladjustedbabies.com
• Another good list of websites and resources is here
• And finally when you are weaning your baby.