Breastfeeding is one of the most natural things in the world. Yet many women experience problems for various reasons. That’s why we have created this ultra-short guide with the best tips that we believe can help any new mother on her way.
Enjoy
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Ouch my breasts
- First and foremost, you should know that it is quite normal to have sore breasts during the first few weeks of breastfeeding. Especially the nipples can become really painful as they have to get used to being “used” so much. At the same time, your breasts may also become very engorged as the breast milk comes in. But don’t worry! After a couple of weeks, your breasts should have toughened up and adjusted to the breastfeeding process – and the soreness should hopefully have gone away.
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Patience…
- Another thing you should also be aware of before you start breastfeeding is that breastfeeding is natural, but it has to be learned. Both breasts and babies are different, which also means that it takes a little time before breastfeeding becomes pure routine. So arm yourself with a good dose of patience
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Many hours
- Speaking of patience, you should also be prepared to spend many hours a day breastfeeding. The experts say that your newborn needs to eat between 8-12 times a day – as long as they are living off your milk. The amount of food and the number of feedings can of course vary greatly from baby to baby. So if it turns out that your little one only eats six times a day, that is probably just fine too. As long as he/she seems satisfied, fills the diaper, and is gaining weight, everything is good.
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Eat and drink well
- Since you will be breastfeeding so many times a day, you should make sure to drink and eat (healthily) regularly. A good fluid balance and energy are exactly what you need to keep the milk production running.
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Put on your yes hat
- You have already come a long way if you are determined to give your child the best start in life with your breast milk. For breastfeeding to be successful, it requires that you have the desire and will to breastfeed. So if you have your yes hat on, it will surely be a success
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Get comfortable
- Another significant factor that plays into a good breastfeeding routine is that you and your baby are calm and feel comfortable during breastfeeding. Therefore, take two minutes to settle into a good chair, on the sofa with lots of pillows, in bed, or wherever you feel is most comfortable to sit/lie down. Also remember to have good support for your arm, so both you and baby are comfortable throughout the entire breastfeeding session.
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Recharge your batteries
- An unstressed and harmonious body produces milk more easily, and it is generally a good idea to do something nice for yourself if the milk is running a bit slow.
So make sure to recharge your batteries, so you are happy and have the energy to take care of your little one. Go for a walk, take a nice bath, take a nap, or whatever works for you
- An unstressed and harmonious body produces milk more easily, and it is generally a good idea to do something nice for yourself if the milk is running a bit slow.
Pssst… the blogger, Nora Moerch, has written a really nice post about the beauty of breastfeeding and finding the perfect nursing bra. It is highly recommended to read!
Also read: Guide – how to choose the right nursing bra!
Also read: Get started with breastfeeding.
/ Team Mammashop
