Tips for Breastfeeding Mothers
There are many things to prepare for when welcoming a new baby into the world, and breastfeeding may not be the first aspect that a new mom thinks about. So let’s talk about breastfeeding and my 5 pieces of advice for new moms.
5 Pieces of Advice for Future Breastfeeding Moms
1. Learn about breastfeeding before giving birth
I can’t stress this enough. You can take a course, have a consultation, join a forum, or do anything to bring you some guidance and knowledge about breastfeeding. Why? Because it is not often that breastfeeding is just “plopping a baby on a boob” (which is what I thought it was when I was pregnant with Oliver). It can feel very overwhelming, so there’s nothing better than taking a little time while you’re cooking your bambino to learn about how you’re going to feed your new baby.
2. Boobs come in all shapes and sizes
I’d like to bring that metaphor to the breastfeeding experience. It can look very different from one mom to another, which makes it beautiful but also highly sensitive. Knowing that it can be different for each mom can prepare you and help you avoid surprises. How? Have a breastfeeding plan before birth, such as finding a lactation consultant/specialist to have on speed dial after birth. Extra perk: It’s a great thing to be prepared about especially when hospital nurses can put a LOT of pressure on you in the first 24 hours. Letting them know you’re working with a lactation consultant offers boundaries and confidence to YOU!
3. It’s true that not all mothers experience a smooth breastfeeding journey
For some, breastfeeding presents many challenges. It’s also true that not all babies can smoothly feed from the breast. This can happen for multiple reasons and factors, so working with a consultant can really help guide you along the journey. Yes, breastfeeding is primal and innate in us, our bodies are made for it, BUT it doesn’t mean that you are a failure if you do not know “what should be instinctive” because that’s just pressure. Be prepared to not feel prepared!! Dig in, ask questions, look into underlying issues, break and form habits!
4. One thing I learned from breastfeeding is that breathing can be very helpful.
Breathing when feeding relaxes the mind and brain, which sends signals for your milk to come down. Deep relaxing breaths can make a huge difference!
5. Kissing your baby tells your body what your baby needs!
Your milk is perfect! It is very very very rare for breastmilk to not have what your baby needs. If you have milk, trust it! You will most likely get pushed to doubt yourself because of less “holistic” ways.
Thanks for Reading!
I hope these after-birth facts will help you in your motherhood journey! Is there any advice about breastfeeding that you would like to share? Comment below!
Read all about What I Would Do Differently During Pregnancy on my blog.
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