The ultimate guide to breastfeeding for new mums

Learning how to breastfeed your baby the right way can be hard, even if you’re in the middle of it all. With so many details to think about, breastfeeding can be stressful, especially if you’re a first-time mum! Learn how to make breastfeeding easier with this step-by-step guide on how to breastfeed properly and give your baby exactly what they need to grow strong and healthy. From information on latching and positioning to dealing with sore nipples and common issues like thrush, this post covers everything you need to know to have a happy, healthy breastfeeding experience!

Choosing the right nursing pillow

The Boppy pillow is usually a favourite because it is both soft and supportive. And since you’ll be carrying it everywhere, it’s convenient to have a cover for easy clean-up. Some mums found the My Brest Friend pillows more supportive, but others didn’t find them as comfortable. Try out different nursing pillows and see which one suits you best. If you have the correct nursing pillow, it makes things so much more comfortable and easier.

Choosing the right nipple balm

All mums know how difficult (and sometimes painful) breastfeeding can be. But a good nipple balm can help ease those aches and pains. Here are some helpful pointers:

• Consult your doctor about the safety of any product before using it on your nipples. 
• Some mums find that medicated nipple creams work better than other creams. 
• Choose a nipple ointment or balm with cocoa butter as one of its main ingredients is to help soothe and nourish dry skin while providing gentle relief from chafing, cracking, bleeding and dryness caused by frequent feeding.

Tips on finding time to pump while at work

If you’re going back to work, breastfeeding can be a lot more challenging, especially if you need time to pump every day. Look into laws in your state and research what rights are granted as mothers. Some states have laws protecting mothers who need time or a break while they pump at work. If there is no such law in your state, see if the company you work for has its own rules regarding breastfeeding. Know that the Affordable Care Act prohibits employers from discriminating against those who choose to express breast milk; however, many working mothers find it hard to find a place private enough where they can take breaks without feeling embarrassed or being reprimanded by co-workers or supervisors.

Ask your employer for a private room that you can pump in. Be sure to have a refrigerator or cooler nearby to store your freshly expressed milk. Remember that your milk supply is all about supply and demand, so the more you pump, the more milk you will be able to produce. Whatever you do, don’t let work interrupt your pumping schedule or let you get too stressed to the point where it affects the amount of milk you can pump. 

Common breastfeeding problems new mums face

One common problem is the leaky boob. Another problem may be an oversupply of milk. Another issue may be nipple soreness and cracking, but these can typically be remedied with an ointment like Lanolin or Sudocrem. Another issue that may arise is clogged ducts, which will not only cause pain but also make breastfeeding uncomfortable. If these problems occur often, it might be worth a trip to your doctor to see if you have mastitis or even thrush – both of which require medication that won’t interfere with breastfeeding.

Myths and realities of breastfeeding

Many mothers are uninformed about the actual breastfeeding process, resulting in troubleshooting problems in their journey. Here are some things that you may not know about: 

• Some foods can actually interfere with a nursing mother’s milk supply. Make sure to avoid those when breastfeeding.
• It would help if you aimed to nurse 8-12 times every 24 hours. 
• Taking ibuprofen is considered safe and is compatible with breastfeeding as long as it isn’t taken frequently (meaning only once or twice a day). 

There are many other myths out there, so always consult with your doctor or lactation specialist with worries or concerns. 

Bonus tips for success on your breastfeeding journey

• Make sure you have a clean, comfortable area to nurse – breastfeeding shouldn’t be hurried or uncomfortable. You will be pulling many all-nighters feeding your baby, so make the area soothing and calming (as how you feel affects the baby’s mood too). Find a comfortable chair to breastfeed and keep water and snacks handy
• Encourage your partner, family members, or friends to feed the baby if you need a break.
• Cut out caffeine and alcohol while breastfeeding, as they are excreted in breast milk. Drink plenty of water, and snack on lactation cookies when needed. Here are more tips on how to increase your breastmilk supply.

This quick guide has given you the tools and information you need to breastfeed your baby successfully. In addition, it has provided some tips that can make breastfeeding easier for you and your baby. Plan ahead, ask for help when needed, and have patience with yourself. Give yourself time to adjust so you can continue breastfeeding your little one past their first year!