"Breast is best... but it ain't easy."

Being a breast feeding mother isn't easy.

It is the best thing for the baby and has benefits for mom but it isn't as easy as you think or as the advocates would like to say. It takes a lot of dedication, organization and time but is well worth the sacrifice. I am strictly breast feeding my son and am reaping the benefits. It is a wonderful feeling when you are nourishing your child from your breast. I was very worried when I was pregnant about how it would be and if my baby would latch on but I was fortunate enough to have it go pretty smoothly from the beginning. I was given the book "The Womanly Art of Breast Feeding" written by La Leche League at 4 months and was able to get familiar with some of the terms and possible problems that may occur when breast feeding. The hospital that delivered my son (Lenox Hill Hospital) is very breast feeding friendly and had an on call nurse available to help with any questions or issues who was available 24 hours a day at the push of a button. My milk came in 2 days later while I was still in the hospital and was engorged and a nurse showed me how to use a pump. It took patience from both my son and I to get comfortable with breast feeding but we are going 10 weeks strong now.

The other night I went out with a few girlfriends for dinner and left pumped milk for daddy to help with feedings. I've learned a few things on this journey that I'd like to share:

1. It is important to take breaks for yourself - Invest in a good breast pump.

2. Drink plenty of fluids, it helps with milk production.

3. Be patient, it may take a few minutes for baby to latch on properly. Don't get frustrated.

4. Keep trying and read up on more tips online if you are still having trouble.

Check out La Leche League for more helpful tips.