What a Breastfeeding Support Group Is

A breastfeeding support group is an excellent asset to those new mothers who may be struggling with various aspects of nursing including latching on, milk supply, and positions to hold your infant while nursing. It can also be helpful to learn other things about infant care and talking with other mothers about their concerns. You can learn so much more than just how to better breastfeed your infant.

Why You Might Want to Join One

There are many benefits to joining a breastfeeding support group. One of the biggest things is that it can help you with any issues that you may have with nursing, especially since there is typically a lactation consultant that participates. If you cannot get help from them during the session, they will often allow you to make private appointments or point you in the direction of another professional to help you.

Another Reason to Join

Another great reason you will want to join a breastfeeding support group is to form a friendship with someone else who may be dealing with the same things as you are. People tend to find comfort in people who may be struggling with the same issues that they are struggling with. You will be able to bond with someone who may have the same battles as you, helping you to find potential solutions that you may not have considered for the same issues.

You will also be able to get out of the house for a few hours a week while you are learning tips and tricks to be a better mom. These are groups that you can find moms who are on their first kid as well as moms on their third. There is a whole wealth of information that the new moms can learn from each other in a calming environment.

How Can You Find a Breastfeeding Support Group in Your Area?

There are a few different ways that you can find one in your area. One great place to start is at the local hospital where you gave birth at. The lactation consultants that they have on staff often offer groups at the hospital and within the community. You can also talk to your OB or your midwife to see if they can help you find a local group. Another great resource is the La Leche League website. This is the premier group for breastfeeding, so these can be great options as well.

How to Select One

One of the most important things that you need to look for is a group that has a certified lactation consultant who runs the group. These really are experts and if you need help, they are the ones to turn to. There are also specialized groups that you can choose from, but these are really based on your own personal preference.

Are They Normally Free or Do You Pay to Join?

The real answer here is “it depends”. You may be able to find free groups that are free but there are also a lot that you will need to pay for.  You will need to decide what is right for you.  If you are lucky you may have many different options near you.

Additional Resources:

Some of these are local to specific areas:
New York
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New York
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