Breastfeeding is truly natural and beautiful, but it can take some education, preparation and work to get you there.
Sometimes it will need some trial and error before you find what works for you.
Don’t be discouraged if you find yourself and your baby struggling. As we celebrate National Breastfeeding Month this August, we’re sharing a few tips and tricks to help you flourish in your breastfeeding journey.
#1 Education
Take a class to set yourself up for success. By learning tips and troubleshooting advice ahead of time, the mother gains confidence and feels more at ease with the process.
#2 – Establishing an abundant Milk Supply
Milk Production varies from mother to mother. Establishing a productive milk supply starts at birth and takes some diligence in the first few weeks.
You can do this by offering your breast to your baby or pumping every two to four hours. In order for you to produce milk, you need to remove milk. That’s why, as pointed out in the next tip, mamas need to start breastfeeding as soon as it is possible for them.
#3 – Start as soon as you can
Skin-to-skin contact has a host of benefits, and one of them is to encourage a successful breastfeeding experience.
According to a recent World Health Organization study, “90 minutes of uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact, where a baby is dried and laid directly on their mother’s bare chest after birth, maximizes the chance for babies to be physically ready to breastfeed.”
Breast milk is a baby’s natural superfood. It has all the nutrients that keep your baby strong and healthy, especially in their infancy. But a new study also reports that breastfeeding your baby decreases your risk of heart disease !
Read more: https://avivaromm.com/breastfeeding-baby-decreases-risk-heart-disease/
#4 – Find a comfortable feeding position
There are many different ways to hold your baby when you start feeding. Don’t buy the notion that there is only one perfect way to do it right!
A mix of trial and error will help you find the best that suits you both. Joining a breastfeeding class will introduce you to different positions that you can work with.
#5 – Feed yourself
It may seem like common sense, but new mothers often overlook this. Overwhelmed by all the things happening, some mamas forget to pay attention to their diet.
Don’t forget that everything you eat will be passed on to your baby! Eat a variety of whole foods, but also, drink up plenty of water. Hydration is essential in breastfeeding.
Red more on nutrition for breastfeeding:
https://lilynicholsrdn.com/breastfeeding-nutrition/
#6 – Feed on cue
Before your child starts talking, it can feel like a guessing game trying to figure out if your baby is hungry, sleepy, or both!
Pay attention to how your newborn is sucking and swallowing. You may follow the feed-wake-sleep-feed cycle. Feed your baby at the start of their “wake window.” As they get full or tired, the swallowing will decrease and release your breast.
#7 – Breastfeeding doesn’t have to be everything
We want to stress this, especially for the moms who are stressed out. Breastfeeding doesn’t have to be all or nothing for you. More than your ability to produce milk, what’s best for your child is a parent who is the best that they can be. It’s all about you and your baby. If things aren’t working out the way you thought they would be, there’s always another way.
#8 – Prepare your home
Before going into labor, some parents experience a sudden urge for nesting. It’s a parent’s natural instinct to prepare the baby’s environment.
Read the Nesting Blog here – https://casa-natal.com/the-joy-of-nesting/
If you get this urge, take advantage of preparing a comfortable breastfeeding space for yourself. Prepare a few items to have at home. And that can mean anything that will make you feel happy and secure. Whether it’s a breast pump recommended by your friends, a cream to protect your breasts, or a soft pillow and some calming music, go ahead!
Mama, remember that if you’re not comfortable, your baby won’t be comfortable as well. And that will make breastfeeding a challenge.
#9 – Help is available
Asking for help isn’t natural for most moms. But if there’s any time to ask for help, it has to be now. Whether it’s about helping with the housework or helping in breastfeeding, know that help is available.
At Casa Natal, we offer a comprehensive breastfeeding class to help new parents get off to the best start in their breastfeeding journey. Learn the basics, and surround yourself with a community that roots for you and your baby!
Learn more: