Did you join ABA?, If so when? Options

[Renee`]

This time, I am more the determined that I will be breastfeeding (Until atleast 12 months) this bubba. I want to join the ABA so I can attend some Breastfeeding Classes (As well as my hopsital ones) But I am wondering when I should join?

[leebee81]

My SIL bought me a membership before Oliver was born. I read the book before he got here and did a BF class but didn't attend any meetings until he was 6 weeks old. I still attend my local ABA group each month even though I've weaned Oliver.

Note you don't need to be a paid member to attend the groups or call the hotline/use the forums. Membership just gets you the books and the money helps them keep the service running.

[e*liz]

I didn't join during my pregnancy and I really regret that.

My advice would be to find your local group on their website. THey probably have a newsletter which will let you know when their meetings are and what they are up to. ABA groups love having pregnant mums come along and you could definitely go and introduce Kaele to them at any time - doesn't have to be right before you give birth! When you have had your bub, you will already know your local counsellor(s) so it's easier to ask for help and advice when needed. You will also get a 'feel' for the group and see if you'd like to go regularly after you have your bub.

Membership is included in the cost of the classes, so have a look when the classes are on in your area and sign up and then you'll be a member too. I found classes weren't on very regularly so by the time I checked them out I was too late to get to one before my EDD (try for one when Klay can attend too, so you'll need some notice to fit around his work etc.) When you join you'll also get the book 'Breastfeeding, Naturally' which is great to read in preparation.

So basically - join ASAP so you have the most time possible to read the book and make the most of resources. :-)

[Renee`]

Thanks heaps girls! I will join today then. I have been told by another I doer that the book is a great help! I will be attending the hospital class as well, but think that the ABA classes may just be more beneificial!

Thanks will do it now that my wallet is sitting in front of me LOL.

[leebee81]

The book really is very good! I've lent mine out to a friend and she loves it too.

There are also a heap of little booklets on specific topics ie, special needs bubs, premmie bubs, bubs in child care, etc which are good too. They are $5 each, there's a list on the ABA website and you can ask your group leader to get them in for you (saves the postage!).

Definitely take Kaele along, there will be other toddlers there she can play with while you have a cup of tea and meet some other mums.

[scasey77]

I joined while pregnant with Cate - well I wanted to do their course so got the 12 month membership included in the price. I loved the book too - found it very helpful. The course was excellent too. Great to have done it before bubs came so that you have something to think back on when times are tough in the early days.

[chelley]

I joined while pregnant and booked online to do a BF course.

I credit that course with Raya and I having the great BF relationship we did particularly as she was in the SCN. I actually went to the course on my day of discharge.

Hope you find the course just as useful.

[SEA]

I wish I had joined during my pregnancy. I'm still not a paid member, but I often frequent the forums and I'm intending on going to my first meeting next month. They offer such a fabulous service and are great advocates for breastfeeding mothers.

Good luck breastfeeding little Bug

[Renee`]

Thanks girls! I didnt get a chance yestrday, but am very excited..will do it end of this week
Lea, I got a book from them when I tried to relactate with Kaele, I found it very helpful, and then passed it on to my sister so she could give it to another friend who wanted to relactate.