Breastfeeding tips

The joy of having your first child can be overwhelming and adjusting to breastfeeding can be difficult. It is frustrating not knowing what to do or how to do it. We decided to come up with tips on breastfeeding to help new moms.

Be patient

As a new mom, you won’t get all the answers immediately. You will have to try out several methods to figure out what works for you and your baby.

Read the signs

The baby cannot speak in a language that is easily understood. Paying attention to your baby’s body movement (language) will help you understand your baby better. You will know when they are hungry or full. Some babies will look at their mother several times, others will suck on anything they see and some of them will just cry!

Feeding habits

Some babies are slow when it comes to feeding and others are fast. When you are trying to figure out your baby’s feeding habits, avoid comparing them to other babies or their siblings. 

A simple illustration of two babies - baby A takes 30 to 45 minutes to feed because he loves to take his time and enjoy the milk while baby B takes 10 minutes to feed because he has other important things to do like sleeping and playing.

Do not be alarmed when they do not feed like their peers. 

Do not dictate

Babies are the boss! They have the final say when it comes to breastfeeding and as such, you should not draw a time table for them. Remember babies are different. Some will eat regularly and others not so much. 

Try not to wake the baby to breastfeed. Let them enjoy their sleep.

Postioning 

In order to have the best feeding experience, the mother must position her body in a way that it will be relaxing for her and the baby. It is a good idea to pay attention to the position that makes you and the baby comfortable. You can position your baby in the following way:

1. The nipple should be on the same level with the baby’s mouth
2. Baby’s chin needs to be right up so they can breathe properly
3. Their head should be tilted backwards slightly, and they need not turn their heads too much to feed.
4. Let the baby assume their best and comfortable position naturally. Do not try to force them in a position that you like. 

Always be together

Spending time with the baby will help create a bond, you will get to know their body language and understand their needs. 

With regards to this, stay in a place that will be convenient, comfortable and conducive for you and the baby.

Always Drink water

Experts recommend that you drink a glass of water after breastfeeding. It helps you stay hydrated.

These are some of the best tips for breastfeeding that can help you and your baby. We cannot say goodbye without dropping some important notes:

1. Breast milk is rich in nutrients and antibodies and for this reason, the world health organization (WHO) recommends exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months.
2. Take care of your skin so the baby can enjoy feeding - avoid strong perfumes and scented body creams
3. And the last one is *drum roll* -- Always ask for help and never be afraid to do so.

Reference

Mustelusa.com [The 12 Best Breastfeeding tips for new mothers - Accessed November 2020]

Thewomens.org.au [Tips for breastfeeding success - Accessed November 2020]

Image source

Pexels.com [Image by Mehmet Turgut]

Submission by Friday A. Daniel for SaraiApp.