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During last July’s 5.8 earthquake, 3-year-old Bronwyn told her 1-year-old sister, “We’re going for a wiggle.” READ MORE

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All About Breastfeeding Series

Fit in a feeding with life All About: Breastfeeding ­ 2nd in a series By OC FamilyPublished: February, 2005

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One of the major myths about breastfeeding is that your life comes to a screeching halt when you nurse your newborn baby. This thought may determine a mother’s decision whether to begin breastfeeding at all. Fact is, the birth of a baby will have a large impact on your life. In ancient times, a mother was pampered during the first one to three months after her baby’s birth. Even today in some cultures this is still a common practice. It may seem old-fashioned to us, but if you realize what happens during these months, it sounds really appealing. During these first precious weeks of her baby’s life, a mother is fed, nurtured, gets help in the household and with older children. The mother can bond with her baby, gets breastfeeding off to a good start and when she feels ready, step back into her daily life of work and child-raising. How can we mimic such a support system in our modern world and life? Before the baby’s birth, you can prepare yourself by cooking double portions and freezing the meals. The foods you feel comfortable with eating during pregnancy should also be safe to take while nursing. Start making lists for visitors showing what grocery they could bring or what they could do for you to help out. Ask around at preschool, church, in the neighborhood to see if someone can take the older kids for an outing or a play date. Have your parents or in-laws visit for a time, if that is compatible for you (but only you should make that decision). Find out where you can go for postpartum or breastfeeding support groups, the MOM’s club, or La Leche League meetings. People will understand when you do not arrive on time or if you drag a whole lot of baby stuff behind you. You probably will get an extra pair of hands or more to help you get settled and get around. Before you know, you’ll be the one who is an experienced, helpful mom helping the next new mother and kid on the block. In this way, nursing may even promote friendships that will enrich your life and that of your baby’s. ­ The Orange County Breastfeeding Coalition (For more information, call 949.856.3058 or visit www.ocbreastfeedingcoalition.org)

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