While it may seem like breastfeeding is a natural function that every new mom should know how to do, it’s not as straightforward as you might think. There are many little things to learn to have the best possible experience while breastfeeding your baby; these six tips can help ensure you’re doing it right.
1. Get Comfortable
It’s essential to be comfortable when breastfeeding your baby. This means finding a comfortable position for you and your baby. Some common positions include cradle hold, football hold, and side-lying position. Experiment until you find one that works best for both of you. You can also invest in breastfeeding pillows, which can help prop up your baby and make you more comfortable. These pillows come in various shapes, sizes, and styles; you should choose one that works best for your body type.
Also, when breastfeeding, it’s vital to wear comfortable clothing, allowing you to move around effortlessly and nurse your baby without worrying about exposing yourself. Choose loose-fitting clothes made from soft fabric so that you stay comfortable throughout the feeding process.
2. Pumping Is Okay Too
If you cannot nurse your baby directly, you can still provide them with the nutrients they need by pumping breast milk. You can do this using a pump or even your hand. Pumping allows mothers to store their breast milk for future use and provides relief if their breasts become too full.
Most mothers can multitask while pumping, so you can continue to do things such as work on the computer or watch TV. Just make sure that you have everything you need within reach so that you don’t have to stop what you’re doing to pump.
However, it would be best to have the right bra to accommodate pumping. Selecting the best type of bra may be a challenge; luckily, you can find reviews on the best pumping supportive nursing bra online. They come in different sizes, colors, and styles, so research and find the right one for your needs. Also, ensure that they offer good support for your breasts during the feeding process and are made from comfortable fabric. A good nursing bra should have cups that you can easily remove to access your breasts.
If you’re planning on storing your breast milk for future use, be sure that the container is clean and sanitary; this will ensure that mold does not grow in the bottle or other contaminants make their way into your baby’s food supply. Ensure that the plastic containers are also BPA-free to avoid exposing your baby to potentially harmful chemicals. Also, be sure that the container has an airtight seal and can stand up straight, making it easier for you when pumping or storing milk in the refrigerator.
3. Find Support
It’s vital to have support while breastfeeding, which can help reduce stress levels and ensure that everything goes smoothly. Gathering people around you like family or friends is helpful when first starting to breastfeed. There are also many resources available to new mothers, such as lactation consultants or breastfeeding support groups, that can help you to feel more confident and comfortable with breastfeeding.
4. Find A Routine
You can encourage your baby to breastfeed on demand by setting up a routine, such as having the exact spot where you nurse each time or even establishing certain times of day for feeding. Having a schedule makes it easier for both mother and baby to know when feeding is coming and can help your child learn to nurse on demand without constant stimulation.
5. Watch Your Diet
Certain foods may make it more difficult for your baby to latch on and breastfeed effectively or even cause them discomfort during the feeding process. These include corn kernels, watermelon rinds, cabbage leaves, broccoli florets, cauliflower pieces, nuts, and popcorn. If you breastfeed your baby as soon as possible after eating these foods, they may have difficulty latching on or be uncomfortable while nursing; this can lead to a bad experience for both mother and child.
6. Nurse Often
Newborns need to nurse often to get the nutrients they need. Breast milk is very nutrient-dense, so your baby will likely want to eat every two to three hours. If your baby isn’t nursing as often as you’d like, try to relax and let them set their schedule; you may find that they start to nurse more often as they get older.
Additionally, to ensure that your baby is getting the nutrients they need, it’s essential to watch for signs of hunger. These signs can include rooting around in their mouth, making sucking noises, or putting their hands to their mouth. If you notice any of these signs, try to nurse your baby as soon as possible; waiting too long can cause them to become fussy and difficult to calm down.
These are six helpful breastfeeding tips that every new mom should know. By following these tips, you and your baby can have a positive breastfeeding experience.