Whether you’re trying to breastfeed a newborn or a squirming 9-month-old, here are some tried and true tips that moms have been relying on for years:
1. Do keep a bottle of water or glass of milk close by. As your baby drinks, you’ll need to replenish your fluids. A few snacks will help you keep your energy up.
2. Use lots of pillows on the arm of a chair or rocker to help support your baby’s weight. And, while you’re at it, make sure you’re comfortable with a pillow in the curve of your back.
3. Bring your baby up to your breast using pillows, see #2. If you’re hunched over, your shoulders are going to be sore and you’ll really feel the pain in your neck.
4. When you want to break the latch, do insert your finger into their mouth so that they don’t pull on your tender nipples.
5. Expect that breastfeeding is going to take 4-6 hours out of your day. It truly does become a full-time job when you factor in burping. If you’re pumping then the preparation, storage, and cleaning takes a lot of time.
6. Find ways to nurture yourself throughout the day as you nurture your little one. Self-care has never been more important.
7. Nap when your baby naps. When you rest or sleep, your body is able to make more milk! Really. That’s why you have more milk in the morning than later in the day.
If you’d like more helpful tips and information about breastfeeding, check out Nurse Barb’s Personal Guide to Breastfeeding.
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