Who wouldn’t love the ability to nurse from your own body indefinitely? It would give you a great excuse to never leave the house again! Most expecting moms are excited about the perks of breastfeeding — it’s cheap, it’s healthy, and you can do it as often as you want. The only problem is that most people don’t know how hard it is. Even with all the benefits of nursing, many moms end up finding it too challenging and switch over to formula after just a few weeks.
If you’re planning on nursing your newborn baby for at least six months, then read on for some helpful tips and tricks that will make your breastfeeding journey easier.
Get A Boppy Or a Pillow
While there are many things that will make breastfeeding easier, one of the most important is having the right pillow or breastfeeding prop. Whether you choose the Boppy nursing pillow or a regular pillow, the key is having something soft enough to prop your baby up at the right angle but firm enough to be supportive enough for you. The right height will make a huge difference in how easily your baby is able to latch on and how comfortable you both feel throughout the feeding. If you don’t have a nursing pillow, you can use a few regular pillows to prop your baby up so that you’re both at the right height. Just make sure to have enough pillows so that your baby’s head is elevated at least a few inches off your stomach.
Hire A Lactation Consultant Or Have a Support Person At Hand
Breastfeeding is challenging, even for the best of moms. In fact, it’s estimated that about 75% of new mothers experience some degree of breastfeeding difficulty. The good news? Most breastfeeding issues can be resolved with the help of a lactation consultant.
A lactation consultant is a lactation expert who can provide the necessary support and guidance to moms during the breastfeeding process. They’ll be able to answer any questions you might have about breastfeeding, as well as give you advice on how to successfully breastfeed – you should also make sure that the person you choose is an International Board-certified lactation consultant. A lactation consultant can also help you troubleshoot breastfeeding problems and offer tips for improving your milk supply.
The best thing about hiring a lactation consultant is that they will be able to help you with whatever challenges you may face while nursing. They can offer advice on things such as positioning, latch, and pumping techniques. They can also help you develop a plan for when you’re not able to nurse due to work, travel, or other situations.
As soon as you find out that you’re pregnant, make sure to call your insurance company to find out if you’re covered by a lactation consultant. If you don’t have insurance, there are many low-cost or even free services that provide breastfeeding support. Ask your friends if they’ve recommended anyone, or check with your local health department to see what services they offer.
Buy A Lot Of Nursing Sleepwear
Breastfeeding moms are extremely limited when it comes to wardrobe choices. You will probably feel comfortable in just one or two nursing sleepwear items. Don’t forget to buy a nursing bra as well. Don’t be surprised if your boobs get bigger than they ever were before! You might also want to invest in some extra bags to help contain the excess milk while you’re lounging around the house.
Keep in mind that, in addition to your breasts getting bigger, they will also likely be really tender for the first few weeks. It’s a good idea to stock up on a few comfy nursing outfits in case you end up leaking. You’ll also want to keep a clean breastfeeding cloth nearby for any mishaps.
Register For A Good Breast Pump
Breastfeeding is great, but it takes a lot of time and energy. If you work outside the home, you might find little time to sit down and feed your baby. If you’re having trouble getting your baby to latch on, or if you have a physical condition that makes breastfeeding challenging, you might want to consider pumping your milk.
Many new moms don’t realize that you can actually pump and bottle feed your baby with breast milk. This will allow you to spend more time away from your baby without having to feed him. At the same time, it will give your baby the benefits of breastfeeding and provide him with the best start in life. If you plan on pumping, you need to get a good breast pump.
Don’t Be Afraid To Ask For Help
Breastfeeding is hard work, both physically and mentally. Many new moms feel isolated or embarrassed and don’t know who they can turn to for help. If you feel that you’re struggling with breastfeeding, don’t hesitate to ask for help. From your midwife to your pediatrician, there are lots of people who can guide you through the process.
Remember, it’s not a competition. You don’t owe anyone an explanation as to why you’re not breastfeeding. If you’re having trouble with it, or if you feel that you’re just not ready yet, don’t feel bad about using formula. In the end, the most important thing is that both you and your baby are happy and healthy.
Summing up
Breastfeeding is a wonderful thing, and it’s recommended for all newborns. However, many women find it challenging, and a lot of new moms feel like they are lacking support. If you’re expecting a baby, remember to prep for breastfeeding early on. Ask your friends if they’ve recommended a lactation consultant, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you find that breastfeeding is just not going to work for you, there’s no shame in using formula. It’s the best choice for a growing baby and it doesn’t make you a bad mom. With a little preparation and support, you can make breastfeeding an enjoyable experience for both you and your baby.