How To Get Off To A Good Start When Breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding is one of the most rewarding gifts you can give to your baby or babies.It is the most superior food and source of nourishment for your baby. The health benefits you and your baby receive are invaluable and will last a lifetime.

So why does breastfeeding seem so difficult to some mothers and why do they need help?

Breastfeeding is instinctive for babies but is learned for mothers.

The main reasons women give up breastfeeding are;

The second thing you should do
is room in together at the hospital.

Most hospitals have rooming in now but some staff still insists on sending them to the nursery for observation or other various reasons.

If mom and baby are healthy there is no reason for separation. Make sure they are not separating you for unnecessary procedures.

Remember this is not the time to catch up on your sleep because you are going home in a few days. Yes you may be exhausted, but keeping baby close will actually allow you to rest more and be able to learn to read baby’s cues. You can establish a plentiful milk supply and a baby that will be more receptive if he is allowed to be close to his mother and not in a nursery alone and perhaps crying.

Did you know that crying is a late sign of hunger? It is much easier to nurse a calm baby then a ravenous crying baby.

Do not offer any artificial nipples.

In the first few days baby’s stomach is about the size of a small marble then gradually increases. Mother’s first milk is colostrums which is nutrient dense and gives the baby everything she needs until mothers mature milk comes in around day 3 to 5.

If a bottle is offered too soon the baby does not have to work as hard to receive the milk and starts to prefer a fast flow. This can undermine breastfeeding success. If the baby absolutely needs to get a supplement for some reason talk to a lactation consultant about alternative methods that won’t jeopardize breastfeeding.

Feed baby frequently and with no time restrictions.

However, this does not mean you have to have the baby on your breast for hours. If the baby has a good latch and you have colostrum or milk the baby should come off the breast when he is full which is around 30 minutes more or less. In the beginning it is sometimes longer as Mom and baby are learning. If it seems like he is not content check with a lactation consultant while at the hospital to help you and access the situation.

It should not be necessary to supplement baby at this time with water, sugar water or formula unless instructed by your physician. Baby has a tiny stomach and no supplementation should be necessary the first few days. If so make sure you are hearing it from a reliable source like your doctor or lactation consultant.

Hospital staffs sometimes recommend it for convenience and not necessity. If supplements are necessary use a lactation aid which you can get from your lactation consultant on staff at the hospital.

A good latch is vital and absolutely necessary for success and to avoid discomfort or pain. Make sure you know what a good latch is and if you are sore you should seek extra help to ensure you have the best latch for continued success.

Do not give babies formula unless medically indicated or artificial supplement is necessary because mother does not have enough milk. Supplementing with formula can effect mother’s milk supply and change baby’s gut flora.

Did you know that a professional postpartum doula ( also known as a "newborn care specialist") is trained and experienced in breastfeeding support? To find out how you can have one help you in your home after the birth contact Triangle Mothercare, Inc. at www.trianglemothercare.com or call 919-225-2493.