Tips for new mothers: Breastfeeding without stress
Planning to breastfeed but not sure what to expect? I asked experienced breastfeeding moms to share their best advice and tips for moms-to-be. Here's what they told me and some of my personal experiences:
Don't panic if it hurts at first
"Breastfeeding in the beginning HURTS. The nipples are cracked and irritated, the breasts hurt, and letting down milk can be painful, too." "The first two weeks are the hardest. I remember standing in the shower wondering if it was going to hurt until I stopped breastfeeding." Don't worry, it doesn't hurt all the time and it only hurt a little with the second child, but I was a little afraid of the first latch.
Practice makes perfect
"The answer to most breastfeeding problems? Breastfeed! And get support—online, in person, professionally, from other breastfeeding moms—whatever to get you through the tough times."
Invest in comfortable nursing tops and bras (you'll be living in them soon)
"Get nursing tops. They're so comfortable and you don't have to roll them up. You can layer them under a sweatshirt or a cardigan that also has a zipper." - Hint: Tajinebanane nursing fashion is the perfect helper here!
Moisturize the nipples
Lanolin cream: buy it now. It also works great as a lip gloss! The Bloom and Blossom lip and nipple balm from Made For Moms is very pleasant and is 100% natural. If you want to save on nipple cream, try using olive oil and your own breast milk to heal cracked, sore nipples!
Don't be afraid to breastfeed in public
"One of the best things that came into my life after having a baby was breastfeeding in public. I'm not an exhibitionist, don't worry. Once I did it, it didn't feel like a big deal and it felt very liberating to go anywhere and not have to worry that he will be a little hungry." "Breastfeed in public the way you're most comfortable (with a nursing gimmick where you have everything hidden, a blanket, etc.). If you keep changing plans or sitting at home alone to breastfeed, breastfeeding will be difficult, everything will be harder for you." Remember that breastfeeding - even in public - is a beautiful thing, so don't be shy.
Watch for early signs of hunger
Early signs are very easy to spot. Breastfeed your baby when:
- He is starting to wake up - it will be easier to put him to the breast
- He sticks his tongue out
- He turns his head from side to side looking for a nipple
Later signs of hunger, such as head movements, hands to mouth, circling movements of arms and legs, and crying, make it difficult to attach the baby.
Find out about lactation consultants - before the baby arrives
"Get the number of a reputable lactation consultant from a friend or based on reviews before you have a baby. By the time problems may arise, you may be too angry/tired/frustrated to look for numbers."
Hydration, hydration, hydration...
"It's very important to drink a lot of water. I was lazy in the beginning and almost lost all my milk." The Muuki tracking bottle, which also has a scale for pregnant and breastfeeding women, is perfect for this.
Be careful where you take advice from
People will offer you their opinions or advice, whether you want it or not. Be careful how you handle them. Even with the best of intentions, thinking and knowledge about breastfeeding has evolved greatly over the last 10 years as well. So even if someone is trying to help, they may be giving misleading advice. It's best to check and verify information with a professional—a lactation consultant, postpartum doula, or trusted evidence-based websites.
Breastfeeding is an intimate journey full of challenges and joys. When someone tries to give you advice, it's like someone giving you advice on how to keep your balance on a bike - it may be well-intentioned, but every body and every journey is different. Your instinct and expert advice should be your compass.
If someone tells you "you're doing it wrong" or "you need to do this," take a deep breath and remember that you have the right to turn to professionals who will offer you support based on the latest research and your individual needs. In this age full of information, it is important to filter the advice and choose the ones that really help.
Breastfeeding is a journey full of trials and triumphs. Don't lose heart whether it goes smoothly or not. Think about the comfort of your child and you. It is an extraordinary journey that I wish you to master with ease.
Your Betty.