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Breastfeeding is one of the best things a new mother can do for her baby. There are countless health benefits for children. Breast fed children have fewer allergies, fewer illnesses, lower instances of certain cancers later in life, lowered risk of obesity, and improved IQ scores. Mothers who breastfeed have reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancer. The calories burned by breastfeeding help to naturally take off weight gained during pregnancy. Breast milk is free while formula can cost thousands of dollars a year.
Despite these overwhelming benefits, according to a Journal of Pediatrics study, only 43% of American mother’s breastfeed at all and only 12% of those continue for at least six months. One reason for this is that new mothers are overwhelmed learning to breastfeed and may feel as though they are in the minority. Support is a crucial factor in a mother’s ability and willingness to breastfeed.
Fortunately in St Louse there is a wealth of available support groups for breastfeeding mothers. Barnes-Jewish, St Luke’s and St John’s hospitals all offer new mother’s classes. La Leche League of St. Louis has a meeting in almost every neighborhood. If a group meeting isn’t your preference there are several postpartum doulas and mothering coaches available. You are not alone in your desire to give your baby the best start and there plenty of places to reach out for help.
Group support meetings/classes:
Missouri Baptist'
Individual Support:
The Mothering Coach
Doulas
Recommended breastfeeding books:
The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding
The Breastfeeding Book
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