[.ca] The Complete Book of Breastfeeding: Third Edition (ISBN 0761109021)

Good but out of date:
This is a pretty good book, but wait to buy it until they come out with a newer edition. This edition had some out of date information (such as the fact that DHA and ARA, two important igredients found in breastmilk, are now added to formulas) and also I couldn't find any info on the American Academy of Pediatrics' recommendation that breastfed babies be supplemented with vitamin D, and this is something I would have liked to have known the pros and cons about. This would is a great book for finding information quickly and easily, however if you're an information junkie like me or are interested in this book as a professional, look elsewhere.

The best breastfeeding resource available:
I purchased this book randomly and feel that I hit the jackpot on the first try! This is perhaps the best and most informative book on breastfeeding available (I've read others and although many were good they all seemed to fall short in comparison) and it did much to boost my confidence both before my baby was born and in the challenging early weeks of nursing. The information found within the book is stated in a very clear, positive, orderly, consise, practical, and descriptive manner and the format makes it very easy to flip back and forth to clarify points and to answer questions. I assure you that you will refer to this book over and over again and it help you to be a success as a nursing team.

The best breastfeeding book:
This was the book I referred to the most when I was breastfeeding my daughter. I already knew that I wanted to breastfeed her, I didn't need persuading. What I needed was easy-to-find information and answers to my many questions. Nobody close to me had breastfed their children. I was a part of a breastfeeding group, but that only met once a week. In between, I consulted this book. How to ensure that she is latching on correctly? Will this always hurt? What are the symptoms of thrush? What are some suggestions for increasing supply? What should I look for in a pump? I consider my breastfeeding experience a positive one and I have this book to thank for that.

COMPLETE is the key word!:
When I first saw this book, I wondered how a book on breastfeeding could be so lengthy. However, this guide covers more than just the benefits of breastfeeding and feeding techniques. It is a logically written and informative guide to breastfeeding and how it relates to all the relevant aspects of post-partum family life--including getting baby to sleep, using a breast pump, returning to work, and weaning. I especially appreciated the section on trouble-shooting strategies. I attended a breastfeeding class and found that the information in this book was consistent with the information related by the lactation consultant. I also noticed that it corresponded with the information related in the American Academy of Pediatrics' book on Baby's First Year. Don't think that this book is merely a repeat of all the other information you will learn, however. The book is useful because it relates everything you need to know chronologically and in very specific terms. It is also a great reference when you want to quickly look up something about breastfeeding. Breastfeeding is a big commitment, so if you've decided (or are considering) that you would like to make it a part of your baby's (and your family's) life, I recommend reading this book at the end of pregnancy and keeping it handy for your post-partum reference.

Be patient--it does get easier:
Stick with the breastfeeding, Moms! It took me over a month to get comfortable with it and for my nipples to toughen up. But it truly is one of the best things you can do for your child. The book is a very supportive and non-judgemental companion, even for mothers who decide to supplement with formula. I have a 2 1/2 month old who is very happy on the breast (strictly). Great tips on storage and a "life in the day of one working mother". My only criticism is that it doesn't help you with birth control options at all! I have an older copy, but there are pills on the market that are supposed to not interefere with your milk supply.