The Lost Art of Breastfeeding
Throughout time, women have breastfed their babies effortlessly; however, with the advancements of our modern life and lifestyles, this art has lost its appeal and ease in our minds. For this reason, many organizations around the world have taken to promoting and teaching mothers how to manage this natural phenomenon.
After assisting my mother and sister to establish a health awareness and breastfeeding-promoting center in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, I was naturally drawn to joining the cause. I went on to become certified as a Peer Counselor by La Leche League International. Being certified, I was able to help in the center by counseling new mothers with their newborn babies, in addition to giving lectures to expecting mothers on the
basics of breastfeeding.
As an advocate of breastfeeding, I would like to present a casual, refreshing gathering for expecting parents, first time mothers or anyone interested in discussing and learning more about the lost art of breastfeeding and its basics.
Huda Batterjee
Some helpful hospital information
If this is not your home country, you may have some doubts regarding where to give birth to your child. Be aware that the ER and Labor-Delivery Rooms are not the same when rating a hospital for childbirth. You may encounter many people from the area or even at the Bank giving you advice and tips, which may on one hand be very helpful and harmless but on the other hand stress you and put you in an ambiguous situation.
Get informed before judging, and most importantly ask other moms about their experience in various hospitals (get the answers directly from them, as they know best!). Check whether your hospital is equipped with a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (aka: NICU), which might be needed in some cases. After all, what you least want is for your baby to be transferred to a different hospital than the one you are in, if something goes wrong!
Keep in mind that all hospitals around the area are very professional. You can count on good teams of doctors and nurses so do not be afraid. But above all, listen to your instincts, and try to keep in mind that you are not the first woman having a child and for sure will not be the last!