[proudmamaof3]

Okay so I am about to have my 3rd baby and I really want to BF him.. I wanted to BF both of my other kids but do to complications after having them I was not able to. I am hoping that the delivery of this baby will go smooth so that I can BF him.. I am getting a pump from my sis in law who BF her last 2 kids. (she has never used the pump) I am getting ready to start a BF class. But was wondering what worked for you ladies. I am scared its going to hurt. (heard from friends that it hurts and you bleed.) & If you BF and bottle feed what are the best bottles to use.. I want my kids and hubby to be able to feed my baby also.. Thanks ladies..

[Mod-quietsong]

I think a big piece is definitely the class - that made a big difference between my first and my second getting mentally prepared, if you know what I mean. Also, I strongly suggest, when you're in the hospital or birthing center, ask the nurses to get you in touch with a lactation consultant! BF did not go well with my first, and my LC was an absolute godsend for me with my second child, definitely a big part of the reason I was able to BF for a year instead of just 5 weeks like my first son! Not everyone bleeds - that is a sign of a bad latch and your LC can help you with that - but do expect it to hurt a bit in the first couple weeks as you and baby get used to it.

Good luck!!! I hope all goes well.

[dream2bemommy22]

I never bled or cracked- i used Lanilin nipple cream after each nursing session for about 4 weeks. it will hurt for a little while, but usually only as they are latching on and then the pain subsides some. you need to build up resistance in your nipples. My pain lasted about 6 weeks, and now it only hurts when he is latched on wrong, and when that happens i just pop him off and relatch.

Also, both of my kids had a hard time latching at first, and i had to use a nipple sheild with them. DS stopped using it at 2 weeks and hasnt had any problems latching since. They need to build up their sucking abilities, so sometimes a little help goes a long way. You can ask the hospital for one, or you can pick them up at target for 7 dollars. they are reusable and washable, so one is all you need.

Pumping doesnt hurt. Ive been pumping since he was about 5 weeks old, and hes been getting bottles ( at least 1 a day) since he was about 8 weeks old. he had a few in the hospital and those first few days before my milk fully came in, but other than that he is primarily breastfed. I used the playtex drop in bottles, the same ones DD uses. He likes the latex nipples better than the silicone.

i wouldnt be discouraged if it takes him a little while to learn to use a bottle, DS had about a week or two where i would have to take the bottle out of his mouth after a few gulps becuase he was just struggling so much, but he eventually got it and is a pro at both breast and bottle now.
You just want to make sure you start with a slow flow, as the nipple on a bottle will come out faster and easier then milk out of a breast will.

[megan1stmommie]

I have heard that once a baby get a bottle of formula(like at the hospital after birth) its hard to get them to nurse, is that true? I am a first time mom and really really want to breast feed but I'm nervous that breast feeding gets a bad rep. So many women choose not to do and dont condone it there isnt much support for those who want to do it.

[LindaF]

Whether or not you crack and bleed, you should try keeping the area moisturized and protected everyday. Also, I recommend using an all natural product (truly all natural)- Episencial Cheeky Balm from Naturals COVE is my favorite- as there are tons of products that are represented as natural but in fact contain harsh chemicals and contaminated ingredients which your child will then ingest.

Good luck!