Should I take a breastfeeding class?

I would really like to breastfeed if I possibly can.  I'll be going back to work 6 weeks after baby so I'm not sure how I'll manage.

Have any of you taken a class and was it beneficial?  Should hubby go if I decide to do it? 

This is the decription of the class:

This class is taught by Tucson Medical Center RN’s who are Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC) and specialize in advising mothers of effective techniques for successful and continuous breastfeeding. The class is for those who want more information about breastfeeding and need the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful. Covered are basic breastfeeding positions, helping baby latch on, how to tell if feedings are going well, and how to balance working and breastfeeding. This class is taken before the birth of your baby.

I think that is definately beneficial. The only addition I would have to say about the classes is that they don't ever discuss the fact that not everyone will be able to breastfeed. I was unable and felt horrible because I couldn't. These classes go over all the wonderful positive aspects of why it's so good for both mom and baby and then not to be able to do it was devestating for me personally. I now know that many others can't breastfeed. I just wanted to share that with you in case you are one of the few like me. But I really think it's a beneficial class to take, it gives so much information.

Yeah...I realize some women just can't and my odds are even less because of PCOS but I really want to try.  I've already been having some discharge so hopefully that's a good sign.

Thanks for your input.

You can breastfeed with PCOS!  I have breastfed 3 babies.  The first 2 I supplemented about 1 bottle a day and with my 3rd she was not supplemented.  I took fenugreek, mothers milk tea and eventually reglan with the first two babies to help my milk supply. 

Also, the last two babies are RNY post op babies.  I am still nursing my 14 month old and am 7 weeks pregnant. 

You should take the class and educate yourself as much as you can.  It is a wonderful bonding experience and there is no hassle of bottles. 

If you end up not able to, well, if  you can't, you can't.  BUT, don't rule yourself out b/c of the PCOS.  And if your milk supply is low you can supplement.

I am still debating. If you have a La Leche League office locally they have monthly meetings too and just ask for a donation (I think). Unfrotunately the LLL meetings in my area are tuesday mornings, so maybe if I am struggling after the baby comes I'll go to one.

Oh and if I took the class I was going to go on my own - I think hubby would get bored, but that's just mine - your's might be very interested. It might be nice to have him there to help you remember later, I know I have "fuzz brain" right now and retain about 1/2  of what I am told lol

Our hospital has a support group as well but they meet on Thursday mornings.  I wish I could be a stay at home, breastfeeding, cloth diapering kind of Mom but that isn't possible!

This hospital seems to be really into the whole breastfeeing thing.  They have a whole department dedicated to it and you can call when you need help.  I'm thinking the class might be a good way to start.  It's only $25.00 so I might as well.

I am sure that it is worth the $25!  The one at our hospital is $100 and it is only 2 nights! I have heard that the hospital I am delivering at has an excellent lactation consultant that is on staff so I'll get to see her while I am there.

Good luck with the class!

Oh and I would love to be that Mom too - but it just isn't going to fit into our lifestyle.

Yes, take one.  Learn all you can about breastfeeding.  For something that should be so natural, it can be very hard to get the hang of.   I took a class when I was pregnant with Hannah.   It was very helpful.  My hubby did go with me (lots of other hubby's were there too).   
  I breastfeed Hannah for 11 months.    Noah is 5 weeks old and nursing like a champ.    

Amy

Yes, if you are considering breastfeeding then take the class, but also make sure to do your own reserach and reading. It is possible to breastfeed and work full time, I know several women who do it, but you have to go into it ready and commited. Good luck.

I recently took one because I am giving it a shot.  I learned alot of things I never would have thought of.  I guess I will still find out if it's beneficial when she comes, but I think it will be.

Good luck. Stacey