Breastfeeding Concern: How Do I Encourage My Sister to Breastfeed?

My sister is having a baby soon and I want to encourage her to breastfeed without being too overbearing.  What’s your advice?

It sounds like you already know that breastfeeding is a personal decision, and it is wonderful that you want to encourage your sister to nurse her newborn. Keep in mind that breastfeeding is also a health decision, so you should be sensitive in your conversation and offer facts about breastfeeding’s many health benefits in an upbeat, calm manner.

One of the best suggestions you can make is to have your sister sign up for childbirth and breastfeeding classes. The breastfeeding instructor will do a nice job explaining to your sister the numerous health benefits breastfeeding can provide for both her and her baby.  The instructor will also go over all of the services offered in her hospital and local community to help support her during her breastfeeding journey. Lactation consultants have plenty of experience with new nursing mom questions and fears, so you can be assured that your sister will get the best information and aid.

Did you breastfeed your own children? If so, be sure to share your nursing experience with your sister. Of course you will want to share the positive experiences, but it might help ease your sister’s breastfeeding fears to share difficulties you had (if any) and how you overcame them.

The one tip I give to all expecting moms is this:  It costs you nothing to try breastfeeding and you may be surprised how easy and rewarding it can be for both you and your new baby. Share this tip with your sister and reassure her that you will be there to support her through her breastfeeding journey.

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