It’s one of the more exciting times of life. You’re expecting or already have your new baby!
You have lots of decisions to make. One important choice is whether to breastfeed or not. Your health care clinician can explain the benefits of breastfeeding and answer questions you may have.
We recommend you take birthing and breastfeeding classes, especially if this is your first baby. You’ll get helpful guidance and be able to connect with other moms who can share their experiences.
Aurora Health Care offers a number of helpful classes. You can search for classes online. Enter the keyword: breastfeeding. Then choose the facility that’s most convenient for you.
You’ll learn that breastfeeding is natural. Baby is born with the instinct to breastfeed. And a little guidance can help you do your part well.
We have some helpful tips for an important part of breastfeeding: getting your baby latched onto your breast. Proper latching helps ensure your baby gets the nourishment she needs and that you can breastfeed comfortably.
The first milk you’ll produce is nutritious colostrum. About a teaspoon each feeding is all that baby needs the first few days. Feedings will be frequent. Free flowing milk will present 3 to 5 days after delivery.
Baby will give you signs. When infants are hungry, they make tight fists and bring them to their mouths to suck. This is a first cue baby is ready for feeding. It’s better to start feedings at this cue than to wait until baby cries.
Early on babies may be sleepy when at the breast. To keep them interested in feeding have dad or a partner rub their hands or feet during feeding.
Mom can help the milk move by doing breast compressions when baby gets sleepy. (Make a “C” with your fingers on your breast and gently compress.)
Soon, no amount of breast compressions or hand/feet stimulation will keep baby awake.
Watch the tension in baby’s arms/hands. When baby is full, their arms will become limp and their hands will open. That shows they’re done.
Don’t move baby yet! Give baby five minutes to get into a deep sleep before you try to put her in the crib — otherwise baby will typically fuss about leaving mommy!
If you expect to breastfeed away from home, practice a bit before nursing in public. (Baby will be hungry when you’re out and about!) Plan for a cover for privacy and check yourself in the mirror so you know what others will see. Some moms suggest you focus on baby when nursing away from home. Ignore surrounding distractions.
Finally, have faith in yourself. Practice will help you perfect your nursing skills. You and your baby will get comfortable with the process.
After taking these steps, if you still have questions or concerns, check with your health care clinician or a breastfeeding / postpartum care specialist.
A number of women’s health and maternity services are available to guide you through every stage of this exciting time of life!
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