Breastfeeding Facts - actual stats and my own

For expecting moms that plan or are not sure of nursing their baby’s here are some facts and some of my own personal experiences :)
• Studies show that women who breastfeed are 50% less likely to develop breast cancer
• Worldwide, the average age that babies stop breastfeeding is 3 to 4 years
(my oldest stopped at 15 months and my little one dtill nurses at 19 months)
• The average cost of breastfeeding per year is about $300 – which I assume is for the cost of nursing bras, nursing pads, a good pump, nursing cover, etc
• The average cost of formulate feeding per year is between $1000 and $2000
• Research has shown that breastfeeding reduces the risk of SIDS as well as child’s likelihood to develop allergies, ear infections and asthma

Here are a few other personal facts that I experienced:
*You burn over 500 calories every time you nurse – you will lose your baby weight fast! Of course, you still need to eat healthy. Nursing makes you hungry AND very thirsty. Definitely drink tons of water – we had to invest in water delivery after I started nursing because I drank so much water and was tired of buying all the bottled waters. Plus bottles = not eco-friendly :)
You get hungry – I honestly ate more as a nursing mom than an expecting mom. You need to eat a lot but make sure you eat a LOT of healthy food – you still need all the good nutrients so they can be passed on to your little one.
*Your hubby never has to get up in the middle of the night to heat up a bottle – they’ll love that. In fact, you never have to get out of bed either. Well maybe for a few minutes to pick up baby or put them back to their bed after nursing. Unless you co-sleep like we did – I fall asleep while nursing…I need my sleep!
*One of my downsides – I am a modest person and am self-conscious. I was totally embarrassed to nurse in public or even pump in a public area. I used to prefer nursing in my car than at a booth in a restaurant even with a shawl! If you feel the same way – it’s okay. I realized that really no one is looking at me if anything they probably just think my baby is sleeping under a blanket. Right?? Remember it is the LAW for a mother to breastfeed her child in ANY location, public or private California Civil Code 43.3
Now with our 2nd one I’m okay but I still use my shawl – of course!
If you are nursing and/or are having troubles attend local breastfeeding support groups. They have meetings everywhere and they’re fun - you can share your fears, concerns, or advice. I’ve attended a few La Leche Leage meetings – they’re very welcoming and supportive. Good luck to you!!