Breastfeeding is one of the best ways to bond with your baby. It’s an intimate moment between a mother and child. While many new moms love the bonding moment, there are some who either don’t enjoy breastfeeding or can’t due to the lack of proper breast milk supply. And that’s okay! However, before you decide whether or not you’ll breastfeed, it is useful to get informed about what to expect and some complications you might face. Moreover, if you wish to breastfeed your little one, having some handy tips from fellow moms is also helpful. That is why, for National Breastfeeding Month, we have compiled a comprehensive guide to help you decide.
What is breastfeeding, and what does it feel like?
Breastfeeding, also known as chestfeeding or nursing, is the process of feeding breast milk to a newborn. Moms usually start it right after birth and continue it for a year or more because of its immense health benefits.
The primary role of breastfeeding is to provide breast milk or colostrum, often called “liquid gold” due to its rich, golden color and valuable benefits. Breast milk is usually high in protein, vitamins, minerals, and immunoglobulins (antibodies) that help build your baby’s immune system. Overall, breast milk provides complete nutrition for your infant and helps prevent illness.
Breastfeeding can be a bittersweet moment for new moms. Breastfeeding feels like a strong tugging sensation. Having the correct latch makes a big difference, too. If your baby has latched on correctly and has your nipple deep in their mouth, it (probably) will not be painful. However, breastfeeding can become painful when your baby isn’t getting a good latch.
Handy breastfeeding tips for new moms
If you are a first-time mom and have started breastfeeding or are thinking of doing so, here are some tips to help you give your baby proper nourishment without any issues.
Always ensure your baby has a good latch
To ensure your baby has a good latch, remember that your newborn needs to open his mouth wide enough to take both the nipple and some of the areola (the dark area around the nipple) into their mouth. Also, the upper and lower lips of the baby should be visible while they breastfeed. This position will not only provide proper supply to your baby, but you will be less likely to have sore nipples.
Watch for cues that your baby is eating well
If your baby is full, they will either fall asleep or remain playful for some time. Moreover, after a month of breastfeeding, their weight should increase. However, they are likely still hungry if they are cranky even after feeding and burping. Since your baby’s stomach is small, and breastmilk gets digested in 1-2 hours in the initial days, they will get hungry soon enough. However, if they cry immediately after being fed, some space is likely left to fill in their tummy. So, watch for cues to know whether they are well-fed or not.
Stay hydrated and eat regularly to promote breast milk production
You need to take care of your diet while breastfeeding. Because a healthy diet is key to good breast milk production. So, have a lot of greens, veggies, and fruits (at regular intervals), eat less junk, and drink plenty of water to ensure a good supply of breast milk.
Reach out to a lactation consultant if you need help
If you think your baby is not able to latch well or you are unable to produce enough breast milk, reach out to your lactation consultant immediately to know the cause and solution.
Ensuring your baby is getting enough milk
Although your baby is likely getting enough milk, first-time moms tend to get concerned. Getting worried is absolutely normal for a new mom! So here are some signs to look for that your baby is well-fed:
- You see the baby’s tummy swallowing during a feed
- They should produce about six dirty diapers a day once your breast milk comes in (including three bowel moments)
- They are gaining weight normally, as in four to seven ounces per week (however, keep in mind that babies usually lose weight within the first week and then gain weight after that)
An absence of these signs could mean your baby isn’t getting enough milk, and you should see a medical professional to address the same. To increase your breast milk supply, include lactation cookies in your diet, but only if your doctor permits.
Common breastfeeding complications and what can you do about them
Breastfeeding is usually a pleasant experience. However, it can sometimes come with complications, leading to discomfort for new moms.
Clogged ducts
A hard, tender (possibly sore) lump on your breast usually indicates a clogged duct, especially if you are breastfeeding. Clogged ducts are usually resolved through continued breastfeeding. However, if they don’t clear up, mastitis can occur. The symptoms are similar to the flu, and you may have red, painful, hot breasts. If you do indeed have mastitis, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics.
However, don’t stop breastfeeding! Feed often and drain the affected and unaffected breast to expedite the unclogging process. Try massaging the affected breast under a warm shower or using a warm washcloth to reduce inflammation and pain. To avoid clogged ducts, feed your baby often and ensure they have a good latch. Also, switch up the breastfeeding position from time to time to ensure each duct is being drained.
Engorgement
Swollen breasts full of milk can be pretty painful. It usually happens when your breast milk first comes in. However, it can also occur anytime during nursing if you produce more milk than your baby needs. Engorgement may make nursing difficult, as it will be harder for your baby to latch on, and it can even make your nipples flat.
To reduce engorgement, first try feeding your baby while using gentle breast compressions to alleviate discomfort. You may also try hand-expressing a tiny bit of milk to relieve pressure or taking a warm shower, which will get your breast milk flowing (known as letdown).
Cracked nipples
Cracked, sore, or bleeding nipples are a common woe related to breastfeeding. Causes include a poor latch, thrush, a baby with a tongue tie, too much pumping, or using a soap that is irritating to your skin. To stop it from getting worse or turning into an infection, over-the-counter cream or even olive oil is often recommended (rubbed on the nipple to relieve discomfort).
Trying out different breastfeeding positions can also help. If breastfeeding is too painful, you’ll still need to empty your breast to avoid engorgement or mastitis, so use a pump or hand express. Always ensure your baby has a good latch, and don’t unlatch without safely breaking the suction.
Thrush
Thrush is a common fungal infection that occurs when the presence of candida (yeast fungus found in the body) becomes unusually high. It can affect both mother and child. Moms may experience pain during or following a feeding, the appearance of red/shiny areolas, burning/shooting pain in the breast, or itchy, cracked, sensitive nipples. Babies with thrush may refuse to nurse or appear fussy and develop a thicker-than-milk white film on the tongue and/or white patches in the mouth.
Thrush often goes away on its own, but if it doesn’t, treatment may include a cream for mom and anti-fungal drops for baby. To prevent thrush, do your best to stop bacteria from forming. Sterilize bottles and pacifiers regularly, wash the toys your baby chews on with hot water, change your breast pads regularly, eat unsweetened yogurt, and limit your sugar intake.
So, mommies, there are certain things you need to look for while breastfeeding your little one. And yes, breastfeeding can be exhausting and tiring sometimes, but it is also the most rewarding experience. So, embrace every moment of it! Because it will be over before you know it.
