10 Top Tips for Successful Breastfeeding
Information is key when it comes to establishing breastfeeding but the last thing anyone with a new baby needs is information overload. Keep things simple with these ten breastfeeding tips.
1. Be kind to yourself as things come together
You and your baby are both learning to breastfeed and that can take time. Even when things are going relatively smoothly, they can be challenging. If heavier issues are in the mix, like difficulty latching or ongoing pain, you may need to give yourself an extra dose of compassion alongside reaching out for support.
2. Get back to breastfeeding basics
Whatever comes up, try going back to the basics of attachment and positioning. Breastfeeding in a laid back position often helps all of this to naturally fall into place so that’s always worth a try.
3. Choose clothes with easy access
Think about what will help you to feel confident and stay warm or cool when breastfeeding out and about. Make sure nothing is compressing your breasts to avoid plugged ducts.
4. Go public with a friend
If you’re nervous about breastfeeding in public, remember that there’s strength in numbers. Go out at first with a breastfeeding friend for solidarity. Ask someone to sit across from you to let you know what they can see. Latching newborns can be tricky at first but the likelihood is that people around won’t notice everything you do.
5. Simplify
There’s an ever-growing list of products being marketed to breastfeeding parents from pumps to dummies, nipple shields to bottles. You may find it easier to focus on breastfeeding in the early weeks and only bring things in if they’re needed. If you need to supplement, ask about alternatives to bottles. They can unnecessarily complicate the learning process.
6. Keep your baby close
Your baby has been inside you their whole life. You are their safe place. Keeping them close helps them to stay calm and helps you to respond quickly to their feeding cues.
7. Practise advocating for yourself and your baby
The postnatal period is a vulnerable one. If you need to insist that you get more support or to put up uncomfortable boundaries, try roleplaying that brave conversation beforehand.
8. Take it slow
You may feel like you have to have everything under control after you’ve had your baby. New babies need to breastfeed frequently and you need to recover. Resting is crucial all the way through the first year. In fact, repeated plugged ducts can indicate that you’re run down and perhaps too busy.
9. Look at your baby
Your baby is your active partner in learning to breastfeed. If this isn’t your first, you might be surprised by just how different things are this time around. Spending time looking at, smelling and enjoying the feel of your baby can help activate your breastfeeding instincts, even if you don’t feel like you have any.
10. Don’t hesitate to ask for help
The earlier you can get support, the better, so don’t suffer in silence. If you find that you’re struggling with your moods, reach out to your healthcare provider. Breastfeeding parents often worry that they’ll have to stop breastfeeding if they’re prescribed medication but you can continue in most cases.
Author: Adele Jarrett-Kerr, Breastfeeding Counsellor
