Although many doctors recommend it, breastfeeding can be a frequent source of frustration for many new mothers. Getting breastfeeding advice from knowledgeable experts can be very helpful. Advice and tips for breastfeeding can be found in a number of places, such as doctors, nurses, and breastfeeding classes. Family, friends, and publications can also be excellent sources of breastfeeding advice.
Pediatricians are often the best source of breastfeeding advice. They can often help with issues like what to eat while breastfeeding, what to do about sore nipples, and what to do if the baby doesn't seem to be getting enough to eat. If a baby is not gaining enough weight, pediatricians can often determine if there is a medical problem or if mothers simply need to change their breastfeeding techniques.
Like doctors, nurses are another excellent source for breastfeeding advice. Nurses in maternity wards often help a new mother when she is starting breastfeeding. They can offer tips and tricks to get the infant to latch on properly, or just an ear to listen to concerns. Many neo natal nurses are also happy to answer a new mother's questions even after she leaves the hospital, and can even recommend other breastfeeding resources, such as classes.
Many hospitals with a maternity ward offer some type of classes on breastfeeding. During these breastfeeding classes, mothers can learn techniques and positions for breastfeeding. They can also learn about a proper breastfeeding diet, along with how to deal with other issues, such as public breastfeeding.
Female family members and friends can also give breastfeeding advice. For example many older women have probably already breast fed their own children. They have often experienced many of the problems that can occur with breastfeeding, and most of them would probably be happy to help a new mother in need of advice. If nothing else, they can be there for support and a shoulder to lean on.
Parenting and baby magazines often contain a plethora of breastfeeding information. Subscribers can learn all sorts of things from these publications, and some of them are even free. The articles are often an entertaining and informative source of breastfeeding advice.
Breastfeeding books are also available. These are often written by doctors or experts, and are packed with useful information for new and veteran moms. Advice on every aspect of breastfeeding can be found in these books, including how often to breastfeed, what to avoid while breastfeeding, and even how to go about stopping breastfeeding.