Imagine nuzzling your baby's soft head and inhaling her sweet scent, all while giving her the nutrition she needs. On paper, breastfeeding sounds like a new mom's dream activity. In real life, the process isn't always a smooth one. Feeling stressed and pained by this ritual isn't healthy for you or your little one. While her needs are most important now, it's worth making the effort to make breastfeeding a nurturing time for you, too.
Be Flexible
You and your baby will both find breastfeeding unsatisfying if your baby can't nurse successfully. Try out different positions at each feeding. The classic cradle hold, in which you hold your baby across your body with her head resting on your elbow, might be perfect for one mom but not for another. Try the clutch hold, too, which many women find easier than the cradle hold, according to HealthyChildren.org. Your baby's body is positioned at your side, with her bottom near your back and her face at your breast. Lying down on your side with your baby lying next to you might be your favorite position, since it gives your arms a rest. Alternating positions within a feeding, and alternating breasts every few minutes, ensures that your breasts are evenly emptied by the time your little one is full.
Involve Loved Ones
Despite the sleep in your eyes, you might find a 4 a.m. feeding one of the most joyful because it's a time for you and your baby to be completely alone in a peaceful space. During other feedings, however, involving other family members includes them in the bonding process and provides you with comfort. Invite other children to snuggle up next to you and sing lullabies to the baby, or ask your partner to sit behind you on the bed with his legs spread so you can recline against him. If you're comfortable, you might even set up a video chat program (or speakerphone) with a distant friend or relative so you can chat while the baby nurses -- and share your amazement at how quickly she's growing.
Pamper Yourself
Cracked nipples and an aching back are never mentioned in those ads that feature serene breastfeeding moms. Delivering crucial nutrients and establishing a bond with your baby doesn't come without consequences, so anticipate that your nipples may be occasionally painful. Nurture them carefully to make future nursing sessions as pain-free as possible. Let breast milk dry on your nipples, suggests MayoClinic.com, since it might soothe sore spots. The site also recommends applying lanolin or hydrogel dressings to dry nipples at the end of a feeding, though it's always wise to check with your doctor first. Pamper yourself during long feedings by tucking heating pads between your pillows and back, and use the occasional nursing as a chance to soak your toes in a bubbling foot bath.
Additional Tips
There's always be something to worry about where your little one is concerned. Breastfeeding is not the time to think about how you'll pay for college or whether the laundry is done. In fact, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine's Medline Plus website, stress and anxiety can prevent milk from flowing into the milk ducts. Create a mantra, like "be present," and repeat it to yourself before each nursing session. Focus on your baby's face and the subtle cues she gives you. You might even use this time to record yourself sharing your thoughts and feelings for her and save these messages to play for her in years to come. And remember, though breastfeeding might feel overwhelming at first, help is always available. Hospital staff should help you learn the basics before you check out, and a lactation specialist can help you troubleshoot breastfeeding issues once you're home.
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