Think about it for a minute. Take a look at the price of a single can of formula. It may not appear to be too much, but if you calculate how much it cost over the period of one year, the average family can save approximately $1,500. It sure adds up fast!

Even if you are a mom who needs to return to work, invest in a good quality breast pump. It will pay for itself in no time at all and of course, when it’s no longer required, you can store it away for when you have another baby.

But this is not the only cost savings to you. Statistics show that parents of formula fed babies spend an average of $1,400 more per year when compared to parents of breast fed babies on healthcare costs! A recent study also estimated that if an additional one million more babies were breastfeed for at least six months, the total savings within the USA would be close to one and a half billion dollars!

Infant illness also costs new families. If your baby is sick, one parent will need to stay home from work or take the child to the doctor causing even further expense in the form of lost income.

You have heard that breastfed babies are healthier and are at less risk to certain diseases… which is already a good enough reason for many moms to breastfeed. Once you add the cost savings, isn’t it at least worth it for new moms to try?

Author: Sheri Lynn

Sheri Lynn is an editor for Breastfeeding Magazine a great online source for breastfeeding support and encouragement. For more information on breastfeeding issues, visit http://www.breastfeeding-magazine.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sheri_Lynn

A doula is a trained professional with experience in many types of birth situations. Her role is varied depending on the needs of each mother, and can include prenatal education and preparation for various comfort measures during the labor. She also serves as an information source as the mother is making decisions about what type of birth she wants to have and what interventions she will accept. A doula is with the mother continuously throughout her labor, as opposed to the doctors and nurses who come and go and may be total strangers to her. She will give the mother emotional and physical support as needed, and has many suggestions to help in dealing with labor contractions. A doula’s role is not to replace the father, but to assist him and enable him to be the best supporter of his partner. A doula will also stay with the mother for a few hours after the birth, helping with initiating breastfeeding if needed, and making sure that the mother is comfortable. Postpartum visits are also included, which can include helping out with a few things at home, more informational support, and discussing and working through the details of the birth.

Studies have been done to determine the benefits of having a doula present with a mother throughout her labor. Listed below are some of the statistics from the studies:

• 50% reduction in the cesarean rate
• 25% shorter labor
• 60% reduction in epidural requests
• 40% reduction in oxytocin use
• 30% reduction in analgesia use
• 40% reduction in forceps delivery

These figures are taken from the book “Mothering the Mother, How a Doula Can Help You Have a Shorter, Easier and Healthier Birth” by Marshall H. Klaus, John H. Kennell, Phyllis H. Klaus.

Having a doula at your birth can be a wonderful experience for the whole family. Mothers report a higher satisfaction level with their births after having a doula, and the statistics show that risks of intervention are lower with a doula’s presence.

About the Author: Brenda Minica, CD (CBI) is a certified birth doula in San Antonio, TX.