What makes you want to be a breastfeeding hero?

• Emotional connection
• Security, knowing my baby is getting my perfect milk
• It is the gift only I can give

Hero moms do extraordinary things. They love their children. They reinvent great lives for their family, and, sometimes, hero moms keep going when it seems impossible to move.

All moms are heroes, but you have decided to be a breastfeeding hero. There are a million reasons why moms choose their breastfeeding journey, each powerful and perfect. Emotional bond and security are top reasons for beginning a breastfeeding journey.

You are the hero of your own story. Your breastmilk has everything your baby needs for the first six months. Breastmilk changes composition to be perfect at all times, so you can relax and enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Breastfeeding is incredibly rewarding, but it is easy to lose yourself in daily baby care. Take care of yourself so you can take care of your baby. If you feel overwhelmed, ask friends and family to support you. Use that time to talk about your feelings and identify specific ways they can help. Skip daily tasks - dishes can wait - and take naps when you are exhausted.

Take a victory lap, momma.

For solutions to your breastfeeding challenges, visit

https://wicbreastfeeding.fns.usda.gov/common-questions-and-challenges

Consider these actions as you continue on your breastfeeding journey, hero mom.

• Take postnatal vitamins as prescribed.
• Take a mental or physical break every day. (Walking - even with your baby - quickly changes moods and perspectives.)
• Talk to family members who may pressure you to quit breastfeeding. Simple and direct phrases like this may help: “This is my baby and it is my decision to breastfeed,” or “Thanks for your advice, but I am sticking with breastfeeding.”
• Talk with your doctor if you feel stressed, anxious or overwhelmed. Help is just a phone call away.