Did you know?

• A breastfeed last an average of 16 minutes.

• Almost three-quarters of moms produce more milk with their right breast (no corelation to being right or left - handed).

• Babies will take more milk from the first breast offered.

• The avearge time it takes for a mom's milk to let-down or start flowing, during a breastfeed is 56 seconds (but this can vary widely - so don't get stressed if you take longer).

• About a third of moms can't sense let-down. Watch for your milk to flow faster to see it happen.

• Babies breastfeed until they're full, not until they " empty" your breast. On average, babies remove 67% of the milk you have available- this amount can vary widely among moms.

• Whether breastfeeding or pumping, the amount of milk removed and its fat content are similar.

• Babies instinctively know how to get your milk quickly and efficiently: they start breastfeeding with a faster suck for stimulation until you let-down. then when your milk is flowing, they switch to a slower, deeper suck and eat until they are full.

• It's common for babies to have resting periods during breastfeeding - sometimes they " take breaks" in between sucks.

• Your baby controls your breastmilk flow with an instinctive action that includes sucking, swallowing and breathing - your milk flows during the actual sucking part, when your baby moves his tongue a certain way.

• Your milk sprays out of many holes, not just one.

• 82% of breastfeeding moms use a breastpump.

• 73% of breastfeeding/breastpumping moms get outside help. There's an entire profession dedicated to successful breastfeeding - lactation consultants are passionate about helping you and your baby breastfeed. You can find one in your state at www.iblce.org (click on "About IBLCE" then "US Registry of IBCLC's")

• The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding (that mean no formula - but pumped breastmilk is okay) for 6 months and continued brestfeeding for a minimum of 1 year. Actual recent statistics:
  • 71% of babies have ever breastfed.
  • 36%still breastfeed at 6 monts.
  • 17% still breastfeed at 1 year.

• Years ago, breastpumps resembled turkey basters. We've come a long way.

• No matter your size, you'll make enough milk for your baby - A cups, rejoice.

• When your child is grown, you'll fondly remember the warm, unique bond you shared while breastfeeding - quarenteed.