A 1997 statement from the American Academy of Pediatricians, based on research from Europe and other developed countries, recommends breastfeeding at least through a child's first year as long as this is comfortable for both mother and baby. It's not because they don't want to. Tantilla knows many breastfeeding women. She is a leader of the La Leche League of Villa Park. Even future mothers who are thinking of breastfeeding may attend meetings or call the leaders for help.
Women also can get assistance and support from professional lactation consultants.
Advocate Good Samaritan Hospital in Downers Grove, for example, has a staff of five internationally board-certified lactation consultants who also happen to be registered nurses. They meet with expectant and new parents to answer any questions. They disseminate checklists so Mom and Dad can watch for trouble signs. And they call the parents at home within two days to make sure all is going well. Macken, manager of Good Samaritan's lactation center.