On Monday night we went to a breast feeding class. Mac and I got there a couple of minutes early and the instructor was still in the process of setting out the hand-outs. As she put one down labeled "Prevention of Breast and Nipple Soreness," I made sarcastic comments to Mac about how his mom would love that. The instructor wondered what I was sniggering about and so I summarized my mother-in-law's advice. The instructor assured me that no pre-treatment was necessary, I would be just fine without doing anything ahead of time. Unfortunately, she didn't have the same "no experience necessary" attitude when it came to positioning and holding a baby for feeding. She handed out some plastic dolls complete with gaping mouths and told us to practice. As I demonstrated bringing a baby to my breast using a proper "football hold," Mac couldn't help but point out my discomfort - "You are bright red! Are you embarassed!?" Ok, yes, maybe a little bit (ok a lot), but at least I didn't have to go home and do nipple exercises!
We had that fake boob at our class too, but I didn't realize it had a retractable nipple! The instructor kept holding it up to herself which I also found humorous. The best part about our class was they sent up home with Dr. Sears' Breastfeeding Book - definitely worth the price of admission. I had a hard time practicing with the doll because of this giant basketball in the way.
ReplyDeleteI went to breastfeeding class with my pregnant sister. No men allowed in this class. Jeremy definitely would have burst out lauging and made several embarrasing comments. As I remember there were lots of whispers and giggles at various props and activities.
ReplyDeletePam and Courtney, don't worry, you will get lots of practice. By the end of 6 weeks you will be a pro. 10 feedings a day times 42 days. I think you can do the math.