Becoming a mom is a transformative, life-altering experience with breastfeeding being a crucial aspect that deepens the connection between you and your newborn. However, it is common for first-time moms to feel anxious or uncertain about breastfeeding. According to my experiences and my true mom story, I will aim to provide essential tips and guidance to help you embark on a successful and fulfilling breastfeeding journey.
From establishing a proper latch to nurturing a supportive environment, let’s explore some of my valuable breastfeeding tips for new moms that will empower you and enable first-time breastfeeding moms.
#1 Seek Professional Support
During the initial days of breastfeeding, getting professional support from a lactation consultant or a breastfeeding specialist can be incredibly beneficial. You can ask for one in the hospital right after your baby’s birth. These experts are well-trained to guide you through the breastfeeding process, offering advice on positioning, latch techniques, and addressing any challenges that may arise. Their encouragement and reassurance can instill confidence in first-time moms, helping you overcome hurdles and build a strong foundation for breastfeeding.
Since you are in the hospital for just 2 or 3 days, prepare a list of your most important questions about breastfeeding. Then, when you’re there breastfeeding your newborn, I’m sure a lot more questions will come to your head, so get them out of your system right there.
#2 Initiate Early and Often
To ensure a successful breastfeeding journey, initiate breastfeeding as early as possible after birth. For example, with my first child, I could not start early because he went to the NICU just after birth, and I was entirely out, so the first feeding was formula (with the father’s consent). Later that day, I went to the NICU and tried to feed him, and it was very difficult, I had no one to help me so I remember feeling very frustrated.
Another important thing is early skin-to-skin contact. This and regular feeding sessions in the first few days stimulate milk production and help establish a robust milk supply. I did not have the chance to do this with my first child. But I had it with my second child, which was amazing. It’s incredible how newborns have a strong instinct to suckle, and frequent nursing sessions, at first, can aid in establishing a healthy breastfeeding pattern.
#3 Find a Comfortable Position
Discovering a comfortable breastfeeding position is crucial for you and your baby. Experiment with different positions, such as the cradle hold, football hold, or lying down, to see which one suits you and your baby best.
My perfect position was the cradle hold, sitting in a comfortable nursing chair with a breastfeeding pillow. I chose my breast friend with my second child and Boppy with my first. Both are good but I prefer my breast friend because is stronger and steadier. And with this pillow, I could do the cradle and the football hold.
Remember, proper positioning ensures a good latch and reduces the risk of sore nipples and discomfort. So, when you’re in the moment just give it a minute, give it a thought, and feel it so you can be sure of what you and your baby like better.
#4 Focus on Proper Latch
A proper latch is the cornerstone of successful breastfeeding. Encourage your baby to open their mouth wide and lead with their chin when latching. Aim to get as much of the areola into the baby’s mouth as possible, not just the nipple, because it will hurt you… a lot. And the lips should be seen by you wide open grabbing you. A good latch facilitates efficient milk transfer, which promotes healthy growth and prevents nipple pain or damage.
To me, this was the most important thing about breastfeeding. The first week will be difficult and demanding, sometimes it will be frustrating, and sometimes it will hurt a little, but then it will not hurt and it will become a little easier. Some women even breastfeed through toddlerhood. I’m not that kind, but I can assure you, if you follow all these tips, it will get easier and you’re gonna start feeling the good parts of breastfeeding.
#5 Stay Hydrated and Well-Nourished
Breastfeeding is physically demanding, so it’s very important for you as a mom to maintain your own well-being. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. You need to have a great water bottle with you constantly. Also, consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins to provide your body with the necessary nutrients for milk production.
#6 Listen to Your Body and Your Baby
Breastfeeding is a dynamic process, and it’s essential to pay attention to your body’s cues as well as your baby’s. If you feel discomfort or pain, then there’s something not going okay. Remember, breastfeeding should NOT hurt. If you are hurting, please try to seek help from a lactation consultant to address the issue promptly.
Additionally, look for signs that your baby is getting enough milk, such as steady weight gain, contentment after feedings, and wet diapers. You should change your baby’s diapers about 6 times a day; all of those need to be wet, (not super wet and heavy, just wet).
This way you’re assured that your baby is having a proper breastfeeding session. But you can always try and offer your baby 1 oz of formula, and see if he drinks it. I always did this, so I could be sure that he was satisfied. Sometimes he did sometimes he didn’t.
#7 Build a Support System
Emotional support is vital during the early stages of breastfeeding. Surround yourself with a supportive network of family, friends, or fellow moms who have experienced successful breastfeeding. Share your experiences and challenges, as well as your triumphs. Knowing you are not alone and having a safe space to vent can make a world of difference in your breastfeeding journey.
As you can see, breastfeeding can be difficult and very challenging. To me is one of the most challenging things in a mother’s life, but is also a beautiful and rewarding experience that nurtures the bond between a mom and her baby.
As a first-time breastfeeding mom, it’s natural to have questions and concerns, but with the right guidance and support, you can overcome challenges and enjoy this magical connection.
Remember to seek professional assistance for at least the days you stay in the hospital, practice proper latch techniques, and prioritize your well-being. Embrace the journey with an open heart, and before you know it, you’ll cherish the precious moments shared during this incredible chapter of motherhood.
Happy breastfeeding!
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Hello, I'm Ana Cristina
This blog is meant to help new moms and dads start a more successful parenting life and answer most of the questions I’m sure you’ll have. You’re not alone. Hi, I’m Ana Cristina, mom of two: Maurizio & Isabella. We live in el calorcito de Miami and I’m sharing my great experience of being a SAHM to help you get through this wonderful (and sometimes chaotic, messy, and tired) journey.