Pregnant with my first child, I began investigating the option of breastfeeding. I hadn't been around it much. My mother didn't breastfeed nor did she talk about it. Being around people breastfeeding always made me kind of uncomfortable so I was convinced that if I choose breastfeeding, I would be discreet and private. I'm just that type of person.

The more I read, the more I realized I had to give breastfeeding a try. There were just too many pros to not give my baby my best effort despite my fears and uncomfortable feelings about the whole process. I took classes, purchased a pump for when I returned to work, and convinced myself this was for me.

The first day or two went well. I was proud my baby could latch on well and seemed to be feeding for long periods. But then problems developed and I experienced a lot of pain. Consultants in the hospital assured me it would pass. As weeks went by I ended up suffering from both a yeast infection on my nipples, and mastitis, which put me down with a 103 degree F fever. The entire time I breastfed I experienced plugged ducts but I got better at heading them off. Eventually, I got to a point where I didn't cry during feedings from the pain, and I could understand why mothers love the bonding and enjoyment of breastfeeding. Friends in the nursing profession said they were very proud of me for sticking it out through the miserable times to get to the enjoyable experience.

I nursed my son for 10 months -- pumping much of that time when I returned fulltime to work.

I'd do it again in a heartbeat. In fact, I'm expecting my second child in July and hope with my past experience I can prevent some of the problems I experienced the first time around. But even if I have to go through that all again, I gladly will -- for the better health of my child.

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