BREASTFEEDING MOTHERS

Breastfeeding mothers deserve so much respect and admiration no matter how long they have breastfed. Breastfeeding mothers, especially those doing it for the first time, are bound to have an adjustment period getting the hang of it all. Be sure to reach out for help if you are feeling overwhelmed or have questions or concerns. There are a number of resources available to you. Many resources can be found through your local hospital. You are not alone in this journey. Our passion is to be part of your village and to support you in a variety of ways.

Many people will offer you unsolicited advice for not only breastfeeding, but for every other aspect of parenting. They forget that it is impossible to treat all newborn babies the same because babies are quite different in the way they respond and behave. Every child is unique in their own way. Nutrition is not all you will have on your mind as a new mother, but it will remain a big concern for many years to come. There are other excellent tips to help new mothers navigate through motherhood. Below is some great advice for breastfeeding mothers.

 

• Allow your newborn to determine their nursing and feeding routine

Your baby knows when they are ready to nurse and when they want to sleep. Do not put a schedule and timer for your baby when it comes to feeding. In these early times with your newborn, learn to feed on demand. Also, avoid interrupting a sleeping child. Doing so can establish unhealthy cues and habits that your child can carry on into life.

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• It's a demanding job

Your baby will want a great deal of attention, especially when it comes to feeding, which they require every two to three hours round the clock. You may be shocked to find out how much of your day will become devoted to just feeding. Babies can nurse 30-40 minutes at each setting. Be patient with your little one and yourself. These early days can feel like they will last forever, but it won't be long and those breastfeeding days will fade into the past and your life will no longer be dictated by a nursing baby.  

 

• Find the right positions when nursing your newborn

 
There are a number of positions you can utilize to breastfeed. Having a pillow to place on your lap can take the stress off your arms as well as laying on your side to nurse. Their are 11 different breastfeeding positions to explore including the laid back or reclined position, cradle and cross cradle hold, rugby ball hold, nursing in a sling, dancer hand position to name a few. Spend some time figuring out which positions work best for you and your baby. 

 

• Ask for help 

Many professionals are available to assist you in your breastfeeding journey. They understand what you are going through and the challenges you may face. Joining a local breastfeeding moms group of social media breastfeeding or moms group can also give you additional support.

 

• Have healthy meals

As a breastfeeding mom, you need to understand that your newborn depends on the nutrients you put into your body. What you eat, so does your baby. Find out more about lactating foods to incorporate into your diet at greyscowbell.com.

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Having a newborn baby is a beautiful thing. As a breastfeeding mom, it may take time to adjust to this new way of life, but it gets easier as you go on... we promise. Be patient with yourself and your little one and enjoy the overall experience that comes with breastfeeding. You are doing great things.

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