Congratulations on your new baby!! I hope these tips help you get started on your breastfeeding journey. It won’t always be easy (or glamorous) but it can be extremely rewarding for both you and baby!
1. Make sure you have all the supplies you’ll need to support breastfeeding.
When I first made the decision to breastfeed, I thought all I needed was boobs and of course breast milk lol. While this is technically true, there are a few other things that every breastfeeding mama should have in her toolkit that will make the process a lot easier. The most important items are: breast pads (disposable or reusable), nipple cream/ or something like Vaseline or shea butter to soothe cracked nipples, a nursing bra or tank, breast pump (manual or electric) and bottles. Items that are nice to have: hot/ cold compress, a large reusable water bottle, nursing pillow, nursing covers (or baby blankets), breast milk storage bags and nipple shields, if needed.
2. Set a goal for how long you want to breastfeed and make a plan to reach that goal.
This is most important if your breastfeeding goal extends beyond your maternity leave. If you want to breastfeed for 6 months, but have to return to work in 3 months, you will need to either pump while at home with baby to build up a freezer stash, make arrangements to pump at work or supplement with formula to give to baby while you are working. Your plan will be unique to you based on your goals and specific needs.
3. When establishing your milk supply, nurse your baby as often as possible, and alternate sides frequently.
Breastfed babies may want to nurse every hour or so in the beginning. This is completely normal and will actually help you build your supply, so let baby nurse to their heart's content. Also, most babies have a favorite side from day one; they may latch better on one side and nurse longer on that side as well. It can be tempting to give your baby their favorite side but this will cause your milk to come in unevenly and overuse of the nipple on the preferred breast. Try to avoid that by alternating sides each nursing session, or feeding on both breasts every session.
4. Don’t be afraid of nursing in public.
If you are breastfeeding, the chance that your baby will get hungry in a public place is basically 100%. Some places, like target/Wal-Mart, shopping malls, or doctor offices, may have designated nursing rooms for breastfeeding. However, when (because it’s going to happen) you find yourself somewhere that does not have a private place to breastfeed, don’t hesitate to feed your baby! Use a baby blanket or nursing cover if you prefer to cover up, but if you do not have one, feed your baby without shame!!
5. Find a breastfeeding group or a fellow breastfeeding mother for support and questions.
As I mentioned, breastfeeding can be hard, painful (cracked nipples, engorgement), and can often leave moms feeling lonely. Having someone to talk to - whether it is a breastfeeding support group, a fellow breastfeeding mother or a lactation consultant can help get you through those days when you want to quit or help you answer questions you may be too embarrassed to google... (Why do my breasts leak milk during sex? Can I breastfeed after a glass of wine?) Your experiences also make you a valuable resource to another mom who may be going through something similar.
I hope these tips will help you on your breastfeeding journey. If you have any questions or comments or would like specific recommendations for products referenced, please reach out to me. If you decided to give breastfeeding a try, I’d love to hear how the journey is going so far!
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