Most women want to breastfeed but many find it tough going. Here are some truths and tips about breastfeeding to help you persevere.

Truth about breastfeeding

Nobody disputes the fact that breast is best! It is also “one of the most wonderful, heart-wrenching, soul-healing, self-doubting, self-confidence crushing and self-confidence boosting experiences I’ve ever had”, says breastfeeding mother Kim Simon, who formula-fed one son and breastfed the other. She adds that although breastfeeding is an extraordinary privilege it is also jolly hard work and not always easy, especially in the beginning.

Breastfeeding tips

Here are some breastfeeding tips to help you get off to a good start:

    1. Go to breastfeeding classes before your baby is born. Knowing what you can actually expect in those daunting first few days after your baby is born is a huge help.
    1. Try to initiate breastfeeding within one hour of a vaginal birth or two to three hours after a C-section if circumstances allow. Colostrum, the yellowish milk produced by the mother in the first few days is rich in nutrients and very good for the baby. Do not give your baby a dummy, pacifier or use artificial nipples to breastfeed if you can help it.
    1. Choose a hospital that allows mother and baby to remain together 24 hours a day and hold your baby close whenever you can. Research has shown that close, skin-on-skin contact not only triggers the release of breastfeeding hormones but also helps both mother and baby to relax and bond.
    1. Learn the basics of breastfeeding. Make yourself comfortable, cradle baby close to your breast without bending over or learning forward, support baby in a semi-upright position that will help him/her to open wide and latch on to your breast, taking the entire nipple (the dark areola) in to his/her mouth. Insert your finger into the corner of baby’s mouth to release the suction before removing him/her from your breast. Burp baby before offering the other breast.
    1. Feed on demand if possible, especially in the beginning. According to the experts, a baby who gets only breast milk is active and urinates a minimum of six times in 24 hours. The more you feed, the more milk you produce.
    1. Take a break. Feeding on demand, although good for your baby may leave you feeling exhausted. So, make time to nap and rest whenever possible.
    1. Expect some breast discomfort and even pain in the beginning. Apart from having sore nipples, some mothers experience breast engorgement, a painful feeling of heavy fullness in the breasts. A hot shower or ice packs (small bags of frozen peas fit snugly into most nursing bras) may help. Don’t try to grin and bear it, ask for pain medication and nipple balms.
    1. Have a back-up team at home. Accept all offers of help and let someone else cook and clean, etc. Also, keep in touch with your doula, midwife or clinic sister and ask for help when you struggle. The breastfeeding support group, La Leche League, have a call system where you can ask questions and receive expert advice for free.
    1. Eat well. Breastfeeding will make specific nutritional demands on your body and apart from drinking plenty of fluids you may also need to take additional vitamin and iron supplements as directed by your healthcare provider.
    1. Supplement feed if you have to. Although breastfeeding experts may disagree, many mothers find that their milk supply is inadequate, comes in late or that baby simply won’t take to the breast. Mary Ryngaert, lactation consultant at the University of Florida, affirms seeing babies who didn’t latch on until eight weeks but also points out that this doesn’t necessarily mean the baby is not going to be breastfed.

Relax and feed the baby

Although the benefits of breastfeeding clearly outweigh formula, not everyone can breastfeed and formula-fed babies mostly turn out just as cute and healthy as breastfed ones. Women who are not able to breastfeed, or choose not to or don’t have the opportunity to breastfeed are often criticised and inundated with feelings of shame, of having failed as a woman. However, supplementing with a good formula is often a relief for both baby and mother, not to mention the rest of the household who have to listen to the loud wails of a hungry baby.

 

Sources

Breast-feeding tips: what new moms need to know. Retrieved from: http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/infant-and-toddler-health/in-depth/breast-feeding/art-20047138?pg=2
Information on which foods fulfil the specific nutritional demands of your body during this period. Retrieved from: http://www.braunhousehold.com/en-za/baby-nutrition-centre/baby-and-toddler-nutrition/mums-diet-during-breast-feeding
Pearson, C. 2013. Breastfeeding problems: advice from experts for successful nursing. Retrieved from: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/06/10/breastfeeding-problems-advice-from-experts_n_3332930.html
Simon, K. Six things I know now about breastfeeding. Retrieved from: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/kim-simon/6-things-i-know-about-breastfeeding_b_5307528.html?utm_hp_ref=breastfeeding
Tips for successful breastfeeding. Retrieved from: http://www.indiaparenting.com/babys-diet/22_3131/tips-for-successful-breastfeeding.html