Anyone else scared to BF?

I know I definitely want to breast feed (God willing) but I am so nervous about it. I feel like I am not going to know what to do and that I am going to somehow mess up. I already had 2 or 3 dreams about it and each time I forgot to feed her for multiple days. I know she wont let me forget to feed her but I am just so nervous that I am not going to be good at it. Anyone else feeling this way?

Re: Anyone else scared to BF?

Having BTDT twice here is my advice.

BF ASAP when you have DC. Don't wait. And try not to supplement at all in the beginning. This helped me TREMENDOUSLY the second time around. The first time, I waited hours to BF DD, and I supplemented with formula, which was a BIG mistake.

The rest, you can't really mess up. Baby will let you know when she's hungry. The first few weeks are hard. But it's worth it in the long run.

Lansinoh cream after every feeding too.

Try not to over think it. You'll be fine.

Re: Anyone else scared to BF?

I'm nervous it won't work, I'd be miserable, etc. I watch videos on youtube they are helpful

Re: Anyone else scared to BF?

Dont be scared to ask the nurses in the hospital for help! You dont wnt to get home and wished you did.

Re: Anyone else scared to BF?

don't be scared. I was the same way, I was so scared and used to have weird dreams about BF . But it will be fine. They will explain to you exactly what to do at the hospital, or they may not even have to , there was no need for me. It was very easy for me , I got lucky, I had a CS so I didn't even BF for few hrs when DD was first born, they gave her formula, but as soon as I was ready they brought her in and she latched on without a problem and started eating , it was as if she knew exactly what to do and how to latch on the correct way, lol. my milk came in the next day and that was it. All the nurses at LIJ were so happy for me , telling me I was "lucky" DD took to BF so well. I was sore for a few days but that went away pretty soon. My milk supply was really good and never had any problems , BF for 7 months.
I do know that it's not as easy for some women and I was very lucky, but as long as you don't stress and worry too much I'm sure you'll be fine.

Message edited 3/5/2012 3:40:37 PM.

Re: Anyone else scared to BF?

I'm scared it's going to hurt to be honest. Hurt during and also the after effects for the first few weeks. I'm also a pretty private person, so I'm not looking forward to guests mixed with feeding times

Re: Anyone else scared to BF?

Oh Please don't be scared... I had no clue what I was doing when I had my daughter and I Breastfed her for 13 months!!! Just Remind yourself that you and the baby are learning together!! Take advantage of the lactation nurse at the hospital...First couple of weeks will seem rough but time will pass and you will be fine!!!

Re: Anyone else scared to BF?

Posted by munchkinbugs

Having BTDT twice here is my advice.

BF ASAP when you have DC. Don't wait. And try not to supplement at all in the beginning. This helped me TREMENDOUSLY the second time around. The first time, I waited hours to BF DD, and I supplemented with formula, which was a BIG mistake.

The rest, you can't really mess up. Baby will let you know when she's hungry. The first few weeks are hard. But it's worth it in the long run.

Lansinoh cream after every feeding too.

Try not to over think it. You'll be fine.

Re: Anyone else scared to BF?

The first few days are hard! I just had my 3rd and I thought is would be a breeze, but DS was so sleepy and getting him to wake to eat was so frustrating! You worry so much about whether or not they are getting enough, but just know they are! Keep at it, and I agree, its just best to keep offering the breast and hold off on supplementing if you can! DS is 10 days old now and we are off to a great start after a hard first day or two (especially since you are exhausted after giving birth, and if you had a c/s, it's hard getting up and down to pick them up!). Get all the help you can!

Re: Anyone else scared to BF?

I was not nervous at all with my DS, but I should have been-lol! We definitely had challenges. However, I really believe that with the right help, most women can successfully BF. I would recommend highly a lactation consultant, be it in the hospital or private when home if you have difficulties. I unfortunately had a crappy LC, and in hindsight I should have met with someone else. We had a lot of issues, DS unable to latch (at all) was the major issue. However, I exclusively BF (between nipple shield/pumping ans sheer persistence) for 6 months and nursed for 21 months in total. And I highly recommend this book. http://www.breastfeedingmadesimple.com/

Just remember-you CAN do it!

Re: Anyone else scared to BF?

Posted by munchkinbugs

Having BTDT twice here is my advice.

BF ASAP when you have DC. Don't wait. And try not to supplement at all in the beginning. This helped me TREMENDOUSLY the second time around. The first time, I waited hours to BF DD, and I supplemented with formula, which was a BIG mistake.

The rest, you can't really mess up. Baby will let you know when she's hungry. The first few weeks are hard. But it's worth it in the long run.

Lansinoh cream after every feeding too.

Try not to over think it. You'll be fine.

Re: Anyone else scared to BF?

Thanks so much for all of the advice and support. Im sure I will be coming to you ladies for more advice after is born.

Re: Anyone else scared to BF?

im nervous.

ive yet to look at any videos on how to bf.

guess i should start now or ask my doc on my next visit if i should taking a class or something

Re: Anyone else scared to BF?

Dh and I took a breastfeeding class through our hospital (sb) and found it really helpful. I did some reading as well to prepare myself. Ds latched with no problem in the hospital...He is now 4 months and is still ebf. I am not going to lie, bf is one of the hardest things I have ever done. The first 8-10 weeks were rough. After we got through that though, it has become very easy. All I can say is stick with it because it truly is a rewarding experience