How to Use the Blog to Learn about Breastfeeding and Childbirth

This blog started out as a source of information on breastfeeding from a Christian perspective.  Because of my work as a childbirth educator, it has "morphed" into something more comprehensive.  There is now information about issues related to birth.

Still, if you are wanting to learn about breast milk, how to prepare for breastfeeding, and so on, start with the oldest posts.  There are some "asides" along the way, which I hope you enjoy. 

More recently, I added a page with information on how to increase the likelihood of success in the first few days of breastfeeding. 

When I did some online searches for breastfeeding from a Christian perspective, I came across a wide variety of philosophies.  Some were in my opinion, absolutely crazy and horribly warped.  One, from the Puritan era, was quite on track in many points.  So, I decided to add my two cents worth by starting this blog. 

Some breastfeeding organizations will advocate for one type of parenting style or another.  It is not my intention to get into this argument in this blog, other than to say, that exclusive breastfeeding causes a strong bond between mother and baby.  Women, as a result, often "figure out" how to parent their babies.  This will be based on the personality of the baby, the needs of the family, and whatever instruction on child rearing she has received in the past or may be exposed to currently.  Of course, her husband is a relevant partner, especially as the baby grows into toddlerhood and beyond. 

I will simply encourage parents to read good Christian literature, as well as medically based literature on the topic, and pray for God's guidance.  Remember, we learn and grow as parents as our children and families grow.

 All parents need to remember the bottom line:  the activities and processes of breastfeeding will succeed when certain conditions are present.  Breastfeeding will run into trouble, or even fail, when those conditions are altered beyond what mother's body is designed to do.

My goal is to try to help women, and those around them, understand why breast milk is perfect for babies, and why formula carries significant risks to the health of baby and mother.  In addition, this blog provides current information, along with tips, to help moms prepare for breastfeeding, breastfeed soon after delivery, in the first days, and beyond.  Additionally, there are some thoughts on the formula industry, how to view, from a Christian perspective, not being able to breastfeed, and the joys of being the grandmother of a breastfeeding baby.

Most of what I intended to write about was completed by "As Baby Grows".  I have the feeling will will write more as I come across information or have experiences which have the power to direct me toward my laptop and this blog.

(Note:  As of today, April 10, 2014, I have written several posts on childbirth, so my "feeling" came to pass!)

My hope is Christian women, especially, will find encouragement as they prepare to breastfeed or support others who are or who plan to breastfeed.  I also hope this blog will provide some useful information and encouragement for women, regardless of their religious backgrounds.