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Today is May 18, 2012

Newborns

So much to learn and so little time! We’re here to share our tips and stories!

Honestbaby Top 10 Breastfeeding Tips

“Are you breastfeeding?” is one of the first questions that a new mother is asked. Many moms plan to breastfeed but during the early haze of parenting a newborn, it can be very overwhelming. Here are some tips from Jill of Honestbaby to point you in the right direction:

    1. Educate yourself. Before you give birth read up on the basics of breastfeeding or take a course so you have some idea of what to expect. Talk to friends about their experiences. Don’t under estimate mental preparation. 

    2. Keep trying. Don’t be discouraged if the baby doesn’t latch on right away. Sometimes you both need a little practice and time together. Remember it’s the first time you’re breastfeeding and it’s the first time for your baby as well.

   3. Don’t worry about “nipple confusion” (when the baby prefers the bottle over the breast). Some people suggest holding off on introducing a bottle until the baby is familiar with latching on. But if your husband wants to partake in feeding or if you need extra time to get the hang of breastfeeding, feel free to use a bottle. We’ve found that most babies can handle switch-hitting.

    4. Get the proper equipment in advance.  You might want a comfortable nursing pillow like, “My Breast Friend” or “The Boppy.” A breast pump is a life saver for those who want to breastfeed but plan on going back to work. Or maybe they just want a family member to help with feeding. Make sure to read the instructions and assemble your pump before the baby comes so there are no surprises. At least one nursing bra is essential. Get the approximate size that you think you’ll be after the birth. You can send out people afterwards to get more.

    5. Use the lactation consultant in the hospital. IT’S FREE! And they’re happy to work with you as often as you’d like. You can also get one to come to your home if you need extra attention (but that could cost you). Reach out to your local La Leche League for more information.

    6. Prepare yourself for the pain. Usually if you’re breastfeeding right it’s not an issue. But when the baby isn’t latching on correctly breastfeeding will hurt!  During this learning process your nipples can be in a lot of pain. You can toughen up your nipples all you want but it’s still going to hurt. (By the way we don’t recommend that. It doesn’t work.) If you’re taking painkillers then try to time it right before feedings. Have hot compresses and ice packs on hand. Use Lanolin to soothe soreness. Don’t worry you’ll get the hang of it pretty quickly and then you’ll actually look forward to breastfeeding your baby! It’s true.

    7. Monitor your breastfeeding. Have a notepad nearby to keep track of feeding times. Memory is not a new mother’s strong suit. So write it down! Remember to feed evenly on each breast. Besides the obvious aesthetic reason, you don’t want any engorgement issues. To remind yourself, put a ponytail holder on the wrist you need to start on or a safety pin on one side of your shirt. 

    8. Make sure you have privacy and quiet while you are breastfeeding. Babies can sense if you’re stressed and may not latch on. It’s important to relax and be alone with your baby. Take advantage of the opportunity for a break from relatives and visitors. Don’t be shy.  Kick everyone out if need be. You and your baby will be happier in a calm environment.

    9. Take care of your self! Sleep when the baby sleeps and eat as nutritiously as if you were still pregnant. You will need those extra calories.  Most importantly, drink plenty of fluids. You need to stay hydrated in order to feed your baby. The months after birth you spend breastfeeding your baby is often called the fourth trimester for a reason!

  10. Please take these breastfeeding tips with a grain of salt. If you can’t breastfeed or choose not to breastfeed for any reason, don’t feel bad about it at all. Plenty of people weren’t breastfed (like most of our generation) and they turned into healthy, smart adults. Don’t listen to the Mommy Police out there who may make you feel bad about not breastfeeding or only breastfeeding for a short amount of time. As a mom, you make your choices and do your best. Don’t forget that your baby will love you no matter what. (…and grow and be brilliant and all that other good stuff).

Author: Jill Besnoy