Learning how to breastfeed
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Mothers and babies need to work together to get breastfeeding right, just as they need to learn to get to know each other, and develop their relationship. So, if a mother is breast-feeding, it is important that she has some privacy and peace for herself and her baby. If you have friends and family, this could be a good time for them to help with cooking, shopping, cleaning, and minding the baby when you want a break.
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Bottle feeding is OK for the baby too - if you feed with formula and if you follow the instructions exactly. It is just a lot more hassle and a lot more expensive. Whether you decide to breastfeed or bottle feed your baby, it is good to know that you can ask friends and family for support, but there are also other places you can go for help. These include your Maternal and Child Health Nurse or Community Midwife, or you can ring after hours phone line listed on this page.
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If you would like to discuss a breastfeeding problem with another mother who is breastfeeding, the Australian Breastfeeding Association can help. There you will find women who have had babies of their own and who want to support other mothers who are breastfeeding. They also have local groups which meet in members' homes.
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In Melbourne, some hospitals have support clinics for women who need help with breast-feeding. These include the Royal Women's Hospital and the Mercy Hospital at Werribee. Some health workers have special qualifications to work with breast-feeding women as Lactation Consultants. They often work privately, and have to charge for their services, but may negotiate a fee. If a GP is also a Lactation consultant, they may bulk bill for their services.
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Whatever decision you make about how to feed your baby, remember that there are services available to you, wherever you are.
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Where to go
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Royal Women's Hospital Breastfeeding Support Service
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