Breastfeeding Tips for New Moms

Many moms dream of the day they will hold their little one in their arms and provide them with the nutrients they need while strengthening their bond. Perhaps you do too. Choosing to breastfeed is a great decision, not just for your child but also for you as a mother.

Breastfeeding offers many benefits, including providing nutrients necessary for long-term health and brain development as well as building your child’s immune system. Mothers experience many benefits, including promoting bonding and a reduction in the risk of osteoporosis and breast cancer.

Below, we share some breastfeeding tips to help ensure you and your child get the most out of your journey.

How to Prepare for Breastfeeding

To prepare for your breastfeeding journey, you should focus on:

• Educating yourself

There is a lot of information available online. However, some information is misleading. The best way to educate yourself about breastfeeding is by attending breastfeeding classes. These classes will provide you with information about how to breastfeed, proper latching, positioning, milk production, as well as possible challenges you may face. They’re perfect for building confidence and helping you address any issues you may encounter.  

• Prioritize your health and nutrition

Focus on consuming a balanced diet rich in nutritious foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Focus on eating foods rich in calcium and iron. Make sure you are well hydrated, as feeding your child can be dehydrating. Consider adding supplements to your diet. Your healthcare provider may provide suggestions for vitamin and omega-3 supplements.

How to Start Breastfeeding?

Babies require more frequent feeds in the first few weeks. Feeding more frequently also helps to establish a good milk supply. Be prepared to feed your baby at least 8 times in the first 24 hours.

• Strive to establish a good latch by positioning your baby correctly.
• Hold your baby with its tummy touching yours. There should be no space between your bodies. Your baby should be facing your breast.
• Their mouth should take both the nipple and most of the dark part around the nipple (the areola). Good positioning and latching are important to avoid sore nipples.

How Long to Breastfeed?

Aim to feed for at least 10 minutes at each session. Babies feed between 7 to 19 times a day.

What Should You Not Do While Breastfeeding?

It is important to ensure that you’re consuming the right foods while feeding your child. It is also important to avoid certain foods and drinks. These include:

• Alcohol – no level of alcohol in breast milk is considered safe for babies. Avoid drinking alcohol while breastfeeding. If you do drink, wait for at least 2 hours after the alcohol clears from your system to feed your child.
• Caffeine – limit your intake of caffeine to no more than 3 cups a day. Caffeine in breast milk can cause babies to become fussy and affect their sleep.
• Some fish – certain types of fish, are high in mercury. These include shark, swordfish, and king mackerel. Mercury is harmful to the development of the nervous system in babies.
• Certain medications – discuss all medications with your doctor. Some medications can be passed on through breast milk and cause harm.
• Excessive ‘gassy’ foods – certain foods can cause your baby to be gassy. Limiting these foods can help prevent discomfort.

Get the Help You Need for a Better Breastfeeding Experience

Whether you’re preparing for the arrival of your baby or are looking for ways to improve your feeding experience, we can provide you with the help you need. While classes are a great way for parents to educate themselves about breastfeeding, Lactation consultants are great at helping moms with breastfeeding and troubleshooting when things are not going smoothly, as well as validating new parents, even if things seem to be going well. 

From general breastfeeding support to addressing specific issues, you can rely on our experienced and knowledgeable professionals for help.

Contact us, 360 Osteopathy, to learn about our Newborn latching services and more. We’d be glad to help.