Breastfeeding is like learning to ride a bicycle?
by Skyla Bowman, RN, BSN

Breastfeeding is natural. However, it doesn't come naturally for many women in our western culture. We live in a culture where bottle-feeding is viewed as the norm. It is not unusual for many women to have grown up and never have seen a baby nursing at the breast. Once they deliver and attempt to bring their own baby to the breast, they have no idea what to do; no idea what is normal for a breastfed baby; and no idea who to ask for help.     

I recently heard a wonderful anaolgy comparing breastfeeding to learning to how to ride a bicycle. This same analogy compared bottle-feeding to learning how to ride a tricycle. Learning to ride a tricycle is relatively easy and takes no real preparation or training. However, you are pretty limited where you can go and what you can do on a tricycle.            Learning to ride a bicycle takes a little more patience, persistence, and dedication. You will likely fall down, maybe even scratch up your knees, but you get back up and keep going, and with time you feel confident in your ability. Once you have learned how to ride, your options are nearly unlimited. You have so much more freedom and FUN on a bicycle than on a tricycle.    

So why do mothers quit breastfeeding? The answers are complicated and involve many complex issues. Studies show that the main reason mothers stop nursing, is that they didn't have the support they needed and were given inconsistent and/or incorrect information about breastfeeding.    

It is essential that mothers find support and information about breastfeeding, prior to delivery. Knowledge is power. Support is crucial. Attending a breastfeeding class and free La Leche League (LLL) meetings during pregnancy can help get mothers off to a great start. LLL is a wonderful resource, not just in our community, but all around the world. Take advantage of the services and support that LLL has to offer!

To find out more information about LLL, and to find a group in your area visit: www.LLLofGreaterKC.org  

Skyla Bowman is an RN, Breastfeeding Educator, and Accredited La Leche League Leader. She can be contacted at breastfeeding_nourishes_the_soul@yahoo.com You may reach other LLL leaders in your area at (816) 361-0909.