How to breastfeed?
It is thought that breastfeeding is the most natural thing in the world, but sometimes it is not that easy.
There is a rule of hygiene: before each breastfeeding you must wash your hands. Hold your baby in a position that won’t leave your arms and back sore. Add support around you with plenty of cushions and pillows. Many women find the cradle position works well, although it really depends on what is most comfortable for you. Get yourself and your baby in a relaxed position before you start feeding. Pay attention to how your breasts feel when your baby latches on. He should take in a big mouthful of breast, the areola. If latching on hurts, break the suction – by inserting your little finger between your baby’s gums and your nipple – and try again. Once your baby latches on properly, he will be able to do the rest.
Remember to change the breasts, to achieve balance. With each breastfeeding, the milk quantity that you have is being determined, and it should be equal for both breasts. If you do not remember and have to crack your head trying to figure it out, use a trick to remember with which breast you should start the feeding (put a safety pin on the strap of your bra on the breast with which you should start).
Some women adjust to breastfeeding easily, encountering no major hurdles. But many new mothers find it hard to learn – so if you’re feeling discouraged, remember that you’re not the only one. If you feel like giving up (or just want professional advice), contact a breastfeeding counsellor (most hospitals have them).
Breastfeeding takes practice. Give yourself as much time as you need to get it down to a fine art. If you’re having a bad feeding day, tell yourself that tomorrow will be better. And keep in mind that any problems you are having are likely to be temporary. By the time of your six-week check, you’ll probably be breastfeeding without giving it a second thought. If not, don’t hesitate to ask for support.
Did you know?
- Make sure your baby is latching on to the full areola and not just the nipple, because if he just sucks on the nipple it will get sore and hurt very fast.
- Apply wet and warm compresses 3-5 minutes before breastfeeding to help the milk to flow.
- Make sure the baby can breathe properly while breastfeeding.
- Ideally you should alternate the breast each time you breastfeed; at the beginning of a feed your baby sucks stronger and your breast adapts the production of milk to the sucking of your baby.
- Most common reason for sore nipples is wrong latching.
- Always wash your hands before you start to breastfeed your child.
- Don’t use alcohol or other products on your breast because they could lead to irritation.
- To avoid infection and sore nipples, rub some drops of your own milk around the nipple area after you breastfeed and let them dry.
- Don’t bottle-feed your baby additionally because this would lead him to drink less breast milk and thus less milk will be produced.
How long each breastfeed should take?
Breastfeeding differs from child to child. Some children drink slowly, some faster. Some babies gulp; others enjoy drinking in stages. There are babies who are happy with one breast, and others who drink from both breasts. There is also no “norm” for the babies. On the other hand, you must not prolong the breastfeeding time indefinitely; this makes little sense. Feeds can take as little as 5 or as many as 40 minutes.
What to eat during breastfeeding
Common problems in breastfeeding
