by Amy Spangler
November 23, 2009

If you are weary of searching for the perfect breastfeeding video and have decided that it simply doesn’t exist, you’re probably right. No single video can meet the needs of every new and expectant parent (although we try—check out baby gooroo’s free YouTube videos here), but a good video can still be a valuable teaching tool.

Breastfeeding: A Guide for Success is one example of a video worthy of consideration.

Produced by Greenwood Cinematography in cooperation with the Northwest Georgia Breastfeeding Coalition (NWGBC), Breastfeeding: A Guide for Success is divided into 11 sections—10 chapters plus a segment containing FAQs (frequently asked questions). A navigation bar located at the bottom of the screen allows viewers to move easily from one section to another and to pause, fast forward, or rewind. As an added bonus, each DVD comes complete with an English and Spanish version.

The film quality is excellent—clear and crisp. Two of the most compelling features of the film are the diversity of the moms, dads, and babies featured throughout and the amount of footage showing close-up images of babies’ breastfeeding.

Health care providers will be pleased to find that the information presented is accurate and up-to-date.

The audio portion of the film is narrated by a La Leche League Leader who could easily be mistaken for a professional speaker. But scattered throughout the video are personal comments from parents. While the use of a narrator ensures that all information deemed essential is clearly communicated, the candid comments from parents make the film real.

Some viewers may be surprised to find a short statement at the beginning of the film: “Due to the teaching nature of the film you will see many exposed breasts. Once breastfeeding is established it is easy to nurse discreetly.”

Patty Spanjer, a La Leche League Leader involved in the production of the film explains that “the statement was added after a number of new and expectant parents expressed concerns about the extent of the breast exposure.”

Shoppers will find that Breastfeeding: A Guide for Success is reasonably priced at $19.95. Bulk prices are available upon request for those who would like to purchase multiple copies.