Breastfeeding is one of those special experiences that can help create a strong bond between you and your child. While it is a natural process, it may not always come naturally, like any new skill, it comes with its own set of challenges. But don't worry; with time and patience, every mom gets better. Whether you are excited, anxious or a little bit of both, relax, as you are not alone on this journey. To help you and countless other new moms like you, this blog will take you through all the essential tips for new moms to make breastfeeding easier and more enjoyable for both you and your little one.
1. Stay Together at Birth
After a baby is born, moms and babies need to be together. Keeping the baby close to the mother with skin-to-skin contact is safe and healthy. Skin-to-skin contact involves placing the unclothed newborn on the mother's bare chest and covering the baby's back with a warm baby blanket or towel. This contact increases oxytocin levels, which promotes bonding between the mother and newborn, reduces stress for both, and helps the baby adjust to life after birth.
2. Find a Comfortable Position
Comfort is going to be key when it comes to a successful breastfeeding session. Try to find a position that works for both you and your baby, and try to hold it for extended periods. You can use a breastfeeding pillow or a pregnancy pillow to support your back, arms and the baby.
Try different tried and tested positions, such as the classic cradle or cross cradle hold. You can also try a side-lying position when lying on your side and keeping your baby facing you on the bed. This position is perfect for nighttime feedings and allows you to rest while nursing.
3. Master the Latch
The initial days following birth present the most optimal chance for both you and your baby to latch and cultivate breastfeeding skills. A proper latch is crucial for preventing soreness and ensuring your baby gets enough milk. Hold your baby close to you with their nose at the level of your nipple for proper positioning.
You can also gently tickle the baby’s lips with your nipple to help open the baby's mouth. You can also aim the nipple towards the roof of their mouth. This ensures that they take in a large portion of the areola, not just the tip.
4. Stay Hydrated and Nourished
Your body works very hard to produce milk, so it is important to stay hydrated and nourished. It should be every partner and family member's duty to help you maintain a well-balanced diet during the entirety of your breastfeeding year. Drink plenty of water and eat lots of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. You can also use healthy snacks and protein bars to keep your energy levels up, especially during those middle-of-the-night sessions.
5. Learn Baby Cues
Most babies need to be breastfed at least 8 times in 24 hours, so pay attention to your baby's hunger cues and feed them on demand. Keep a responsive approach, as it ensures that your baby gets enough milk and stimulates milk generation as well. You must also keep an eye out for signs like rooting, sucking on the thumbs, or fussiness.
6. Seek Support
Breastfeeding can be challenging, so don't hesitate to seek support from a lactation expert if you feel something is off. Breastfeeding consultants and health-care providers can often offer invaluable advice owing to their vast experience. You can also reach out to your family and friends and remind yourself that you are not alone in this journey.
7. Take Self-care Seriously
As a new mother, it can be tiring sometimes, which is why it is essential to take care of yourself. Try to take advantage of any opportunity to rest, and openly welcome assistance with household chores. Try not to feel obligated for the daily tasks and rely more on your support network. When a mother is well-rested and has a strong support system, she is better prepared to care for her child.
8. Use a Breast Pump for Flexibility
It is a well-known fact that breastfeeding benefits your baby in multiple ways, which is why it is recommended to breastfeed your baby for a year or at least 6 months. However, if an unforeseen situation arises and you need to leave your baby for a few hours, then using a breast pump can be a game changer. We offer a variety of both manual and electric breast pumps, as well as top-quality accessories, to make the process more comfortable for you.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the breastfeeding journey is filled with moments of joy, connection, and learning. Although it comes with its challenges, at Laadlee, we have carefully selected a wide range of high-quality baby care products to make nursing easier. Our selection includes baby bottles, nipples, and breast pumps, all designed to nurture the bond between you and your baby. Ultimately, trust your instincts and embrace the journey with love, confidence, and a little bit of patience. Get our baby and mother care products to cherish every moment with your baby, as these memories will last a lifetime.