Breastfeeding is beneficial for the health of both mother and child. Here are some good practices for successful breastfeeding:
Start breastfeeding as early as possible: It is recommended to begin breastfeeding within the hour following birth. According to a WHO study, early initiation of breastfeeding is associated with a longer duration of exclusive breastfeeding.
Breastfeed on demand: The infant should nurse whenever they want. According to a study, infants breastfed on demand tend to gain weight faster than those fed on a fixed schedule. Don’t watch the clock; there is no minimum or maximum time for a feeding session, as it depends on each baby (their appetite, swallowing rhythm, etc.). What matters is that you observe your baby swallowing well and that they wet enough diapers per day.
Don’t wait for the baby to cry: this can make feeding more difficult; the baby may be agitated or tense, which can affect their positioning and cause you pain. If very upset, the baby may even refuse the breast, even if hungry. Signs of a hungry baby can be subtle, such as sucking movements, swallowing, tongue movements, or head turning from side to side. Watch for these signs to know when your baby needs to be fed; this way, feeding will be more pleasant for both of you and will strengthen your bond.
Position your baby correctly: Make sure your baby is held close to your body, with their chin touching the breast and their mouth wide open for a good latch on the nipple. This is what really matters, so you can forget the acrobatic positions shown to you at the maternity ward! Remember that a good position is also, and above all, one in which you are comfortable!
Avoid infant formula supplements (commercial infant formula): They can disrupt lactation; indeed, it’s a vicious circle—the more you replace feedings with formula, the more your milk production decreases due to lack of stimulation. Therefore, avoid giving your baby other foods or liquids besides breast milk, not even water (water is not necessary for a baby under 6 months exclusively breastfed).
Don’t stop night feedings too quickly: Breastfeeding at night can also help establish sufficient milk production and maintain lactation. Prolactin levels, the hormone responsible for milk production, are higher at night, which can promote milk production. Don’t worry about the impact on your sleep; feeding will cause you to secrete hormones that help you fall asleep quickly. Moreover, night breastfeeding can help strengthen the attachment bond between mother and baby, as infants need to feel secure and in close contact with their mother.
Take care of your health: Studies have highlighted a possible link between stress/fatigue and decreased lactation. It can be difficult for a new mother to eat properly and rest, but it’s really important. Take the time to discover what works for you and your family, at your own pace. There are meal delivery services specially designed to provide new mothers with the nutrients needed to recover after childbirth. Ask your co-parent or a close person to watch the baby during a bath or nap. If you need extra support, try our Milky Mama cure to boost your energy and help cover the increased nutritional needs during breastfeeding.
Get help: Don’t hesitate to get support from an IBCLC lactation consultant; you will save time and energy, which is precious when you’ve just given birth! They are expert breastfeeding fairies who regularly train to stay up to date with the latest breastfeeding recommendations. In addition to giving you effective tools, they can also support and encourage you.
Own your breastfeeding journey: You have within you all the resources needed to succeed in breastfeeding. Don’t compare yourself to other mothers; free yourself from injunctions, unsolicited advice, and various information found on social media (yes, even ours). Because every breastfeeding journey is different, what works for others may not work for you. Listen to yourself, observe your baby; your duo knows how to make it work.
And if you need a boost for your lactation, our Milk Boost is effective within 24-48 hours!
