If you have decided to breastfeed most likely the first few days are scary…and painful…and pretty close to hell on earth. You thought you were stressed before, but this is on a whole new realm. I mean, you are responsible for keeping another human being ALIVE for crying out loud! So many crucial questions hammer in your head. The one I hear the most is: "How do I know I am not starving my baby?"

It can take up to five days for your milk to come in so surely your new bundle can’t go that long without milk right? Not True! As soon as the baby is born (and in many cases while you are still pregnant) the breasts produce colostrum, a very thick, very sweet, extremely potent pre-curser to your milk. Baby can and will be satisfied with this until your milk comes in (between days 2 and 5 post partum). Please trust in this. Even the most researched, dedicated and determined women will break down and supplement with formula in the first few days and I understand why. It is torture to think that our new sweet angel would suffer any discomforts, especially the discomfort of hunger. Running on fear and next to zero sleep- we supplement. I have been there and done that. This is not necessary and can stretch out their marble sized stomachs, making them hungrier in the long run. So just wait it out, your milk will come in and your baby will not starve! Just nurse, and nurse, and nurse, and then nurse some more. Around the clock nursing will not only stimulate milk production but start the bonding between mother and baby. If baby seems content, they are content. And if they are having wet and dirty diapers you are doing it. Breastfeeding helps your instincts come to life, honest! It rocks the house! Seek out your network of support while you are pregnant. Most hospitals have Lactation Consultants on staff and are there to help you be successful—make use of them! Identify experts in your own circle of friends and family who will be there to support you, who will help keep your eye on the prize. There are amazing women just a click away if you need to find a support group online. Find a breastfeeding friendly pediatrician or family doctor who will encourage you before baby comes. And finally, find your local La Leche League. They have amazing leaders and several meetings in and around Ann Arbor. Please visit the La Leche League of Ann Arbor for more information. Your milk will come in, your baby will thrive on all of that sweet mama’s milk, and you will feel great about yourself for the accomplishment. And it is quite the accomplishment. You go mama, you can do it.

Rachael Isaacson is a full time working mother who is dedicated to living a joyful life. You can visit her blog Warm Hearts Happy Family at warmheartshappyfamily.com.