As a mom, your most basic instinct is most likely to feed your child. Breastfeeding is one way to make sure your baby is getting all the nutrients they need. If you’re wondering how to make it work for you and your baby, read on. You’ll see five helpful tips for the breastfeeding mom that can make the process an easy and memorable one for you that’s also fulfilling for you and your bundle of joy.
1. Watch for Cues From Your Baby
The best kind of breastfeeding is led by the baby. It’s possible for you to get this done right by watching for cues in your baby that alert you to your baby being ready to breastfeed. These cues include having your baby turn his or her head or try to raise it repeatedly, sucking on nearby items, and sticking out his or her tongue. When you breastfeed your baby whenever you see these signs, you’re likely to avoid engorgement and feed your baby adequately. If you’re having issues that make it hard for you to breastfeed well, talk to your doctor about it as soon as possible. Note that, for instance, the recommended dose of lecithin for breastfeeding moms who suffer from recurrent clogs is 4800mg per day.
2. Make Sure You’re Comfortable
To have an easier time breastfeeding your baby, it’s a good idea for you to make sure that you’re in a comfortable position. This is because you’ll need to hold your baby for a considerable length of time during each feeding. That said, find the most comfortable position before you start to breastfeed, and make sure that you’re adequately supported. This can help you to avoid getting neck, shoulder, and back pain to a considerable degree.
3. Be Gentle With Your Skin
The skin on your breasts will go through a lot when you start to breastfeed, so it’s important to treat it well. This is additionally important to do when you consider the fact that cases of acne in adults are increasing and currently affect up to 15% of women. That said, clean your skin gently and avoid overwashing, using a soothing balm between feedings to make sure your skin stays supple and healthy. Doing this will improve your chances of staying comfortable enough to feed your child well, for as long as they need.
4. Seek Assistance When You Need It
If you ever have a burning question or any issue that you’re unsure about, it’s important to seek help. Ask your doctor or caregiver about what you can do to make the process better for you and your baby. This will help you take care of your baby more confidently and it will soon become natural and gratifying for you. Never assume that the professional knows your needs, so ask in order to get help.
5. Prepare a Nursing Area
Finally, it’s important to have a nursing station from which you can breastfeed your baby comfortably. This should consist of a comfortable chair, as many pillows as you need, and a side table on which you can place things like snacks, water, a burp cloth, your phone, and more. This is one of the most important parenting hacks that you’ll learn early on. Remember that decluttering can eliminate almost 40% of housework in an average home. This makes it a great idea to keep your nursing area and home in general free of unnecessary clutter.
Use these breastfeeding tips and you’ll soon have an easy time keeping your bundle of joy well-nourished and happy. You may find parenting to be fulfilling and doable if you can start on the right foot by learning how to breastfeed well.
