So it turns out that breastfeeding isn’t all that easy, in fact some would tell you it’s even down right hard. There is a great misconception out there that this very natural part of motherhood comes easily to both mother and child. Many women believe the baby comes out with a natural instinct that makes them latch on correctly the first try and know exactly what to do, and that the experience for the mother will be pleasant and calming. Some how the message that breastfeeding isn’t really that easy and requires practice doesn’t get passed on from woman to woman.

We have all heard that breastfeeding is the healthiest way to raise your child. Women are made to believe that they are putting their child at risk if they don’t breastfeed. The stress created by our fear driven society alone is enough to make the best among us a little anxious our first few tries, no wonder we don’t always get it right in the beginning. Let alone the fact that when we start out we really have no idea what we are doing.

Armed with the knowledge that breastfeeding may not be so easy puts you at a bit of an advantage. By recognizing it as a challenge you can also recognize the need for a little education on the matter. Here are a few things you can do to prepare yourself to become the ultimate breast-feeder, or at least fairly adequate at it.

Be prepared. It seems to be the motto for almost everything, but also a little easier said than done. Be prepared for the fact that it might take you a few days or even weeks to get the hang of it. Educate yourself on all the various aspects of breastfeeding. Things are always a little easier if you have some idea ahead of time what to do and what to expect. Talk to your caregiver about your fears and questions, remember they do this for a living and can be great resources. Take a breastfeeding class. They are offered at most hospital and birthing centers these days, and from what I understand offer a wealth of information for both new and experienced moms. If you can’t find a class, or don’t know where to look your caregiver should be able to point you in the right direction.

Most hospitals offer breastfeeding advice once the baby is born as well. A nurse or lactation specialist is usually available to assist new moms in learning the best techniques for holding the baby during feedings, how to get the baby to latch on correctly, how to recognize when the baby is finished eating, and all that good stuff. Be sure to have them evaluate your technique again right before you leave the hospital to make sure you are on the right track.

Another thing we need to be prepared for is the discomfort that inevitably comes along with having a baby sucking on your nipples every few hours. Understandably there will be some pain and discomfort. Many women find their nipples become painful, raw, and chapped, although these symtoms are common they can also be a sign that the baby is not latching on correctly. Some recommended at-home treatments for these common ailments are to expose your breasts to air after a feeding, or to apply lanolin to the area. Of course, as with anything else if you are worried about the pain and discomfort, or experience any unusual symptoms like severe pain or pain that lasts through the entire feeding contact your doctor immediately.

Breastfeeding can be a wonderful thing once you get the hang of it. It is the ultimate source of nutrition for your baby and a great money saver since you don’t have to fork out all that money for baby formula. Take the time to educate yourself before the baby arrives, and don’t be afraid to ask questions once he or she does arrive. While you are in the hospital the first couple of days after birth is the best time to figure out if you are breastfeeding correctly and to get some assistance from the professionals.

If you run into problems once you are home with the baby you can always call your doctor’s office for advice, contact a lactation specialist, or a La Leche League volunteer (they will often make house calls). Be sure to gather the necessary contact information for your support network prior to the arrival of the baby so you will have it handy if you run in to problems once you are home from the hospital. Remember that it’s ok to admit you don’t know what you are doing and to ask for help.

Of course, it is important to recognize that breastfeeding it not for everyone. There are many contributing factors surrounding the decision of whether to breastfeed or not, some within our control and some not. If you have questions about your options if you cannot or choose not to breastfeed, and what alternatives to breastfeeding are best for the baby ask your caregiver, or your child’s pediatrician for more information.

The bottom line is that knowledge is power. Take the time to educate yourself before the baby arrives so you will be better able to successfully tackle the challenge of breastfeeding once your little one gets here. And remember, practice makes perfect so don’t give up.