Breast feeding Tips

Breastfeeding tips are often helpful for first time mothers. Most people simply do not realize that breast-feeding is not as easy as it looks. Breast-feeding has many benefits and does provide all the nutrients for the baby. Besides providing immunity, breast-feeding also helps one lose weight and creates a bond between the mother and the baby. However, many mothers do give up breast-feeding primarily because it is time consuming, challenging and requires a lot of patience. From listening to people, it appears that some breastfeeding tips that may help this task a little easy include the following:

It is important that first time mothers seek help or ask questions if they are not sure about breast-feeding. Soon after delivery speak to the maternity nurse or your doctor, or better still speak to your mother or close friends.

Always try to make yourself comfortable first before starting breast-feeding. Support your back, neck with pillows, and learn to cradle the baby close to your breast. You may even need to scratch the baby’s lower lip with your nipple in order to encourage breast-feeding. When the baby latches on to the nipples, you will hear a periodic sucking sound. When breast-feeding is over, you can release the suction by gently inserting your finger into the corner of the baby’s mouth.

Another great breastfeeding tip is to never rush the process. Let the baby set the pace. Most newborns will breast feed every 2-3 hours around the clock. When the baby is hungry, watch for signs like stretching, sucking motions and lip movements. Feed on one breast for about 20 minutes and then burp the baby. Then offer the other breast. If the baby is not hungry, just wait for the next session. Some babies consistently feed from one breast and if this occurs consistently, you may need to pump the other breast to relieve the discomfort and preserve the milk supply.

If you start breast-feeding, keep the pacifier away from the baby for at least 4 weeks. If you give the pacifier too soon, it generally affects breast-feeding.

Other breastfeeding tips include taking care of your nipples and resting. After each feed, change your bra pad and apply an ointment to the nipples to prevent them from cracking or becoming dry. If you have pain during breast-feeding than you are not doing something right- the process should not hurt at all.

Breast-feeding is very tiresome so learn to rest when you get a chance. Drunk ample fluids and eat healthy. If you adopt these easy breastfeeding tips, you will discover that the process is not only fun but also you will have a baby that is more content. Granted that breast-feeding is challenge but do not get discouraged too early. If you invest more time into this natural method of feeding your infant, it will also provide you with a gratifying feeling.