Doctors recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months for every newborn, as breastmilk is believed to provide the best nourishment to the baby. Besides, the hormones released during breastfeeding help the mother by speeding up post-partum recovery. However many mothers find it difficult to breasteed their newborn because of various reasons, a few of which may involve lack of knowledge about the correct way to breastfeed. It is important to know the correct way of doing so in order to address other common concerns that arise during breastfeeding.
Strange though it may sound, both baby and their mother may need some guidance as they try to start nursing. Here are a few tips to help you get started.
How to Sit?
It is important that you make yourself as comfortable as possible so that you can focus completely on your child. Use pillows for support and place your body in a natural and comfortable position. If you are recovering from a C-section, doctors might also advise you to lie on your side and place the baby next to you. Irrespective of the position you choose to breastfeed in, remember to not get your spine in an awkward bend while sitting or lying down as it will lead to pain and discomfort.
Once you are ready, it is time to feed your baby and the first step towards doing so is to ensure a good latch. Latching refers to the way your baby places her mouth on your breast. A good latch is vital because it ensures a good sucking action and a steady flow of milk. It is also necessary as it stops air from entering your baby’s food pipe which could potentially cause stomach issues or even colic.
The first step is to hold the baby on her side so that she is facing you and ensure her belly is touching yours. Use pillows to prop up the baby, if required.
The baby’s natural feeding instincts are strong and she is likely to respond to the encouragement given by you. However, in case your baby does not respond to this practice, you can try the following techniques.
In the beginning, it might take a few attempts to get your baby into the right position. Here are some more latching techniques for breastfeeding:
After practicing the above techniques, it is important to double check if the latch is good and your baby is comfortable. Following are some signs you may observe to ensure the same.
Along with the correct latch, it is also important that the mother and child are both positioned correctly for feeding. Both need to be comfortable and relaxed.
Here are some positions to try:
This position is quite common and perhaps the most helpful for new moms as it allows them to latch their babies correctly right after their delivery. It could seem a little awkward, however practicing this postion correctly can prove to be very helpful and beneficial in the breastfeeding process for both mom and the baby.
A cradle hold can be practiced once your baby is a few weeks old and you are more used to holding her while breastfeeding.
This position is inspired from the American football or also fondly known as Rugby. This position works well if you have had a C-sec or if you need to breastfeed twins
• Hold your baby with your arm under her.
• Hold her head and neck with your hand.
• Let your baby spread her feet towards your back on the same side from which you are feeding.
• You can opt for a pillow to support your arm, and use your free hand to direct the baby’s mouth towards your breast.
This position is particularly beneficial after a caesarean delivery or if your body feels sore after delivery.
This position is again very useful for moms who are recovering from a C-section or those who find sitting up a little uncomfortable. Moms who nurse their babies in bed can also practice this hold.
By the time your baby enters toddlerhood, she would have already become accustomed to certain breastfeeding positions. At this stage, most babies enjoy acrobatic breastfeeding where they try to breastfeed upside down, with their feet in the air, supported by one foot, wiggling and twisting and turning and much more. Some of the breastfeeding tips for toddlers are:
Typically, one session lasts 20 to 30 minutes when you first breastfeed a newborn, but it could even stretch to 60 minutes. Remember that each baby is different and you can’t really fix any time limit on each feed. Normally, there is a need to feed for longer in the beginning and during growth spurts. It is easier to feed your baby on demand rather than following a breastfeeding schedule.
Once your baby is skilled at nursing, she may just take five minutes at your breast. Here are some signs that would help you understand if the baby is well-fed:
It is recommended that you breastfeed your baby exclusively for the first six months, and steer clear of any food or water. Post that, breastfeeding can continue alongside a solid diet for as long as the baby wishes. Breastfeeding is more than just providing milk- It is a way to strengthen the bond between the mother and the baby and a source of security to the child. Continue for as long as you are both comfortable.
Babies aren’t hungry at birth, and their appetite grows only around the third day. Therefore, initially, the demand will be less, and you will need to initiate or push for the process.
In the first few weeks, your baby needs to be breastfed every two-to three hours. This means that over 24 hours you would need to nurse almost 8 to12 times. However, many people believe that newborn breastfeeding should take place on demand and only when your baby is hungry instead of following a schedule. We recommend that you consult your doctor and a lactation expert and follow what he/she says.
As the baby grows, her stomach grows too. With time, she will start taking longer feeds, and the frequency will come down.
Use these tips and trust your instincts for a rewarding nursing experience. Happy nursing!
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