QuestionI was hoping you can help me. I'm currently 37 weeks pregnant as of today, and am having a lot of anxiety about childbirth and dating.
If my due date is on the 16th of february, what would be my possible dates of conception?
Also, I want to breastfeed but I'm afraid it will hurt or that he won't latch on. Do you have any advice on how to breastfeed as long as possible? Thanks!
AnswerHi Samantha,
Based on a due date of February 16th, here is a rough estimate of when you possibly conceived. This is based on an average 28 day cycle.
Possible Dates of Conception: May 22 to May 30, 2009
As for breastfeeding, you should definitely give it a try, but keep an open mind and be patient. There are many variables, and many surprises, but most women who stick with it through the early weeks (which are the most challenging) go on to breastfeed their babies successfully for extended periods of time.
Some newborns latch on without any problems. Others need some help and encouragement, which both mother and a good lactation consultant can give. So don't worry about latch on problems unless you actually experience it.
Does breastfeeding hurt? Yes, and for different reasons - but most of the discomfort is temporary. Let me explain! First of all, when baby nurses it causes the uterus to contract and this can be painful, but it only lasts for a very short time postpartum. Secondly, your nipples have to "toughen up" a bit because they've never nursed a baby before. Some women find this uncomfortable at first....some actually painful. But again, with good latch-on, it subsides and goes away completely. Third, when your milk comes in several days after birth, you'll likely have some breast pain and swelling because of engorgement. Again, it's temporary and a good lactation consultant can suggest some comfort measures for you.
The general rule is that any pain a nursing mother experiences after the first few weeks postpartum is a signal that something is not right with the breastfeeding. It could be poor latch-on that was never fixed. Or an infection like mastitis or yeast. Any pain that you have after the first 2-3 weeks are past should be looked into by a professional.
But again, most mothers get through the first few weeks and then it's much better. They settle into a comfortable, rewarding nursing experience. Remember, although breastfeeding is natural, some of it is still "learned" by both mother and baby. Everything doesn't always happen perfectly, and that's why new mothers need support and education most of all.
Regards,
Ann S
