Throughout pregnancy, women hear that breastfeeding is the most natural way to feed their baby. While it seems like it should click instantly, it is challenging for most women to nurse — especially in those first few weeks after the baby arrives. At Reza Ahmadinia OBGYN, we support all of our new moms in the High Desert region, regardless of their feeding choice. We want to help women who are interested in breastfeeding to be successful, and we feel that Apple Valley women can benefit from these tips that can make the process of feeding a new baby easier.
How Can I Make Breastfeeding Easier For Me and My Baby?
Get help early, and seek help often. Lactation consultants are available to help you specifically with breastfeeding issues. You will want to make sure that your baby has a good latch from the start, as this will help establish your milk supply and ensure that your baby is getting the milk that it needs. It will also minimize pain and discomfort. Whenever you have a question or concern, reach out to your trusted lactation consultant for support and advice.
Use your breast pump. A breast pump can help you in many ways as you establish a breastfeeding relationship with your baby. It gives you an opportunity to take a break from nursing and allow someone else to feed your baby a bottle of breast milk. It can help you relieve engorgement. It also can help bring forward the milk that will satisfy your baby the most, which only becomes available several minutes into a nursing session.
Stay hydrated. When you are breastfeeding, you need to drink a lot of water in order to maintain your milk supply. You should keep a water bottle near you at all times, but especially when you are nursing the baby. If you notice that your milk supply seems low, then try increasing your fluid intake. Most of the time you will find that this helps you produce more milk for your baby.
Establishing a breastfeeding relationship with your baby will take time. It is easy to get frustrated, especially when you have so many changes going on in your life at one time. If you feel that breastfeeding is the best choice for you and your baby, then be sure to give it time. It can take several weeks before you feel like you are managing it well, and several months before you feel like you have the hang of it. To find out more information about the benefits of breastfeeding and to get more tips to establish a good milk supply, talk with Dr. Ahmadinia at your next prenatal care appointment.
