The Maternity Leave Breastfeeding Plan

Almost every pediatrician will tell a new mother that if she wants to breastfeed, she must commit to it for at least six months--a full year is the traditional, and generally more preferred, duration. Imagine hearing this as a working mother; with just three months' leave, many working mothers may never attempt nursing. Or, if they do nurse, they have to figure out on their own how they can return to work and still maintain a routine feeding schedule for their baby.

Unitl now, women facing the triple challenge of balancing motherhood, breastfeeding, and a career have had no reliable nursing reference to turn to for guidance. The Three Month Breastfeeding Plan is exactly the book they need to make the most of those precious months and make a smooth transition back to the workplace. Will Wilkoff, M.D. assures working moms that, contrary to traditional belief, they can provide all the health advantages of breastfeeding in just three months. And the best part is, they won't feel guilty for not doing what they've been told repeatedly is "best" for their baby.

Contents

Acknowledgments

Do We Really Need Another Book About Breastfeeding?

What Is the Maternity Leave Breastfeeding Plan?

Why Should I Breastfeed My Baby?

I'm Afraid I Won't Like Breastfeeding Because...

An Energy Crisis in the Making

Caught Between Cycles, Understanding Your Place in History

How Long Should I Breastfeed My Baby?

Preparing Your Mind and Adopting an Attitude

A Plan for the Three Months Before You Deliver

Your Husband's Role in the Plan

D-Day

The First Day...and Night

Day Two

The First Night Home

Days Three, Four, and Five

Is My Baby Gaining Weight?

Week Two: Winning the Battle Against Fatigue

Week Three: "I Will Not Become a Pacifier..."

Week Four: Adjusting to the New Reality

The Second Month: Striking a Balance

The Third Month: Enjoying Your Baby and Making Transitions

The Rest of the Story (Months Four Through Twelve)

Nursing Your Second Child

In Defense of Realism


Appendix 1. Burping Your Baby

Appendix 2. What Medications Can I Take While I Am Nursing?

Appendix 3. Nursing Your Premature Infant

Index