Successful breastfeeding 101: Part 1

Knowledge and patience are key to having a successful breastfeeding experience. Only a very small percentage of mothers are physically unable to nurse their babies; the rest of us just need the right support and facts – something most don’t get in the early days.
Here are some of the challenges of breastfeeding and how to tackle them: 

1. It’s just too painful
A widespread complaint is that having a baby on the breast is an agonising and uncomfortable experience. Cracked or bleeding nipples can be very off-putting for new moms. If your nipples are sore, cracked, red, swollen or painful to touch, it’s very likely that your baby is not latching properly – he’s sucking the nipple, instead of the area behind the nipple.
 
To treat sore nipples, use a little Lansinoh ointment – available at your pharmacy – before and after each feed, and it’s not necessary to wash it off before feeding.
Do not use soap on your breasts – only plain, warm water. You can also rub breast milk into the area and gently warm your breasts for a few minutes in non-midday sunlight every day.
If the pain is excruciating, ask your health professional for a safe pain reliever.
Engorged breasts, lumps and bumps and even mastitis can be avoided or at least minimised by latching properly, resting enough and letting your baby take the lead.

2. I don’t have enough milk
This old wives’ tale has damaged thousands of breastfeeding relationships. After all, how do severely malnourished women in impoverished communities still manage to breastfeed their little ones?

• The facts about milk production are:
  
• Don’t feed your baby on a schedule – especially not the popular four-hourly one. Scheduling feeds will interfere with your milk production and cause major problems.
• Breastfeeding babies digest their milk very quickly and they may need to eat far more frequently than formula-fed babies. Throw out the timetables and feed your baby when she wants it.
• A baby who’s allowed free access to the breast when she displays signs of hunger will automatically help your body to make just the right quantity of milk.
• Respond to your baby’s hunger cues before she starts crying. Early signs are restlessness, sucking hands and rooting.
• Your baby will indicate when she’s satisfied by falling asleep or turning away. After a nap or nappy change, she may want more food – sometimes two to four courses in fact, until she’s fully satisfied
• Remember that breasts are designed to produce milk. If you’re really struggling, then speak to a qualified lactation consultant – preferably one who’s an International Board-certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).

A normal diet with sufficient fluids, enough rest (sleep when baby sleeps and rope in others to help with housework and meals) is all you need to successfully produce enough milk. Latch correctly and feed your baby on cue – and all will be well.

By Angela Barry

Successful breastfeeding 101: Part 2





birth, baby, breastfeeding, Angela Barry