Breastfeeding is effortless for some mothers and babies, but for others, there are challenges. Even some women who have successfully breastfed before may have a new baby who has difficulties. It takes two to nurse, after all. Thankfully, there are several things that moms can do to prevent problems before they occur. Here are a few recommendations.
#Be positive and use visualization
Pregnant women are sometimes told of the value of visualizing and planning their ideal birth. They watch birth videos, read birth stories, surround themselves with positive people about birthing, and refuse to listen to negative stories. Doing the same thing – except for breastfeeding – can also be valuable.
If someone asks you whether you’re going to breastfeed your baby and then proceeds to regale you with their horror stories of bleeding nipples and other difficulties, empathize with them but don’t get sucked into their story. Every birth, every woman, and every baby is different. Her story – and your mother’s, sister’s, and mother-in-law’s story – doesn’t have to be yours.
In her book the ABCs of Breastfeeding, author Stacey Rubin spends a lot of time discussing the importance of a positive attitude. She even recommends that pregnant women do visualization exercises, imagining nursing their baby, and enjoying the experience. This is not just woo-woo airy-fairy nonsense; it’s backed up with solid research.
Many studies have shown that the body doesn’t know the difference between an actual and imagined event. Successful athletes can improve their performances with visualization, and people can even build muscle by imagining exercise! It can work for breastfeeding too.
#Educate yourself and others
Before your baby arrives, read books about breastfeeding. Talk to friends who have nursed their babies – especially those who are still doing so long term. They’ve likely overcome challenges but found the benefits worth sticking to it. Meet women at your local meeting or other support groups who are pro-breastfeeding.
Before your baby is born, you need to know that your birth experience has much to do with your breastfeeding experience. Unmedicated births make nursing easier. If that isn’t possible, you can still have a wonderful nursing relationship but remember that the early weeks are often crucial to the entire breastfeeding experience. Be sure your birth care team knows of your wishes. Make it clear that your baby will receive no other nipples, no water, formula, or even pacifiers. Make sure your family and the baby’s father know how you feel too.
#Early and often
Once the baby is born, remember the motto “early and often.” You cannot nurse your baby too soon or too much in the early days and weeks. Nursing frequently tells your body to bring in a strong milk supply. Babies do not need to be “topped off” with bottles. These can derail your attempts to breastfeed. Breastfed babies act differently than formula-fed babies, and that’s ok. They like to nurse for many reasons, only one of which is hunger. Nursing often also helps prevent painful engorgement, which can lead to plugged ducts and mastitis.
If you are going to be pumping your milk for the baby, get a stash of milk early. Don’t wait until a week or two before you return to work to start getting the hang of the pump.
Tips for Surviving the First Month of Breastfeeding
Most mothers quit breastfeeding in the first month after childbirth. Follow the tips given below to conquer the first month of breastfeeding:
-
- Start breastfeeding within one hour of birth.
- Eat well and drink a lot.
- Avoid caffeinated food and drinks when you are breastfeeding.
- Always aim for a good, deep latch.
- Avoid wearing clothes that are too tight and uncomfortable. Instead, wear loose, comfortable feeding tops with easy nursing access.
- Avoid using artificial nipples, bottles, and pacifiers in the first month of breastfeeding.
- Steer clear of people who talk negatively about breastfeeding. Instead, get in touch with people who encourage you to breastfeed your little one.
- Get as much knowledge as you can about breastfeeding by consulting a lactation expert, taking breastfeeding classes, reading books and blogs, talking to other nursing moms, and joining a local breastfeeding support group.
- Breastfeed on demand
- Consider co-sleeping
- Have skin-to-skin contact with your baby
- Don’t be afraid of cluster feedings
Tips for Successful Breastfeeding at Night
Breastfeeding the baby in the middle of the night can be daunting for most first-time mothers. Follow the practices given below to make nighttime feedings easier and more comfortable for you and your little one:
-
-
- Stay close to your baby during the nighttime.
- Try swaddling to soothe your baby if she is hungry and crying.
- Keep your bedroom quiet and dark.
- Try a side-lying position to breastfeed your baby at night comfortably.
- Don’t stare at your clock. Instead, pay full attention to your baby.
- Make sure you get your baby latched on to your breast properly.
- Don’t hesitate to get assistance from your spouse or family members if required.
- Wear comfortable feeding nightwear to ensure quick and easy breast access at night.
- Keep all the necessities in reach, particularly wipes, diapers, burp cloths, and nursing pads.
-
Tips for Successful Breastfeeding on a Plane
If you’re flying in a plane, breastfeeding can be a bit uncomfortable and challenging. Here are some tips to make breastfeeding on a plane a rewarding experience:
-
-
- Pick an aisle seat.
- Stay well hydrated.
- Use a nursing cover while breastfeeding.
- Wear nursing wear with easy nursing access to make breastfeeding hassle-free.
- Breastfeed during take-off and landing.
- Carry the things you’ll need to make breastfeeding on the plane successful. These may include a change of clothes for the baby, a lightweight nursing pillow, wipes, diapers, and a couple of burp cloths.
-
How often should I breastfeed?
You should breastfeed your baby 8 to 12 times a day for about the first month. Newborns should not go more than about 4–5 hours without feeding, even overnight.
How long should I breastfeed my baby?
Although this is a personal choice, WHO recommends mothers breastfeed their babies exclusively (without water, juice, formula, food, or non–breast milk) for the first six months. Then you can continue breastfeeding for as long as you want.
