What do I need to know?

As you learn to breastfeed, your health care providers will give you information, skilled help and support.  Like learning any new skill, it gets easier with time and practice.  Soon your confidence with breastfeeding will grow. Women who feel confident about their ability to breastfeed have less trouble with breastfeeding and continue to breastfeed for a longer time.

Some women who have not breastfed before or who have had problems with breastfeeding may worry about whether they will be able to breastfeed successfully. If you have any questions or feel worried about this, please talk with your health care providers. We can help you through difficulties as you learn to breastfeed.

Support from your partner or support person, family and friends is very helpful.  Your partner or support person can care for you and help you get enough rest. If you have other children, they can spend time with you and help with baby's care.  Your family and friends may also want to help.  Think about your needs and let them know what would be helpful.

Here are some ways that people can help you:

• spending time and talking with you
   
• changing your baby's diaper
   
• holding, rocking, cuddling or bathing your baby
   
• buying groceries, making meals
   
• helping with laundry or cleaning
   
• caring for your older children