Tips on Breastfeeding a Newborn

In the first few weeks, breastfeeding can present many challenges. The new mom may face clogged milk ducts, supply issues, nipple infection, or mastitis, and the infant may have trouble latching on or may have reflux issues. There are some strategies the new mom can employ in the first few days to make breastfeeding easier and to set mom and baby up for long term success.

Nurse Early and Often

If it all possible, nurse within the first hour of giving birth. Breastfeeding quickly after birth will help promote a good mom and baby connection in terms of breastfeeding. Breastfeeding.com states that an infant shows a very strong sucking reflux in the first hour after birth, and this sucking reflux needs to be capitalized on to promote successful breastfeeding. Also, nurse whenever the baby shows interest. Nursing often will promote the milk supply, since breast milk is made through a supply and demand process.

Position Your Breast for a Good Latch

Engorged breasts are hard to the touch and difficult to latch onto, so it may be necessary to help the baby with the positioning. First, lightly massage the breasts from the top toward the nipple to encourage milk flow. Next, lightly squeeze the top and bottom of the breast, pushing the nipple outward. This movement will make the breast look like a sandwich and allows the baby an easier time in finding the nipple. Encourage the baby to open his mouth wide and get as much of the areola into his mouth. Do not force things, but gently guide the baby into proper positioning.

Find a Good Nursing Position

Moms who have a vaginal delivery may be able to begin nursing in the cradle hold, where they hold the baby across the stomach and nurse. Moms who have had a c-section delivery will not be able to put any pressure on the incision right away, so the football hold will be a better choice. In the football hold, the mother puts the baby on her forearm, with her forearm supported by a pillow, and holds the baby's head in the palm of her hand. In both positions, the mother should bring the baby to the breast, not the breast to the baby. Later, when the mother is more practiced at nursing and the baby has more head control, it will be possible to nurse while lying down sideways.

Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthy Foods

Nursing burns a lot of calories, so it is important to fortify with extra water and strong nutrition. Eat small healthy meals throughout the day to keep hunger at bay and to give the body the extra nutrients it needs to build a good supply. Babycenter advises new moms to limit caffeine intake since the caffeine can pass through to the breast milk. It is also a good idea to limit alcohol since it enters breast milk as well.