For a new mother, starting to breastfeed can feel both natural and challenging at the same time. Breastfeeding is a unique way to bond with your baby and provide the best possible nutrition, but it also requires patience and the right know-how. In this article, we share practical tips and basic information about breastfeeding so you can go on your journey with confidence. Whether it’s optimising posture, increasing milk production or preventing breastfeeding problems, this ABC of Breastfeeding provides the keys to successful breastfeeding.
The significance of breastfeeding: Effects of breast milk on baby’s development
The significance of breastfeeding for a baby’s development is undeniable, as breast milk provides the perfect mix of nutrients to support the baby’s growth and development during the first months of life. Breast milk contains all the necessary proteins, fats, vitamins and immunity-boosting nutrients to protect your baby from infection and disease. In addition, breastfeeding promotes the bond between mother and baby, which is important for the child’s emotional development. Studies have also shown that breastfeeding has positive effects on maternal health, as it can help a mother recover from childbirth more quickly and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, such as breast and ovarian cancer. The benefits of breastfeeding are therefore numerous, making it an indispensable part of a baby’s nutrition and care in the first months and even years.
Starting breastfeeding immediately after birth is important for both the mother and the baby. The first hour after birth is often described as the golden hour, when the first skin-to-skin contact between baby and mother and the initiation of breastfeeding can lay a strong foundation for a relationship of breastfeeding. This time helps the baby to feel secure and warm close to their mother, which promotes the secretion of the oxytocin hormone, the love hormone, by both of them. Oxytocin also contributes to the secretion of breast milk and reduces the mother’s risk of postpartum hemorrhage.
Start early: The first moments of breastfeeding after birth
Starting breastfeeding as early as possible helps your baby to learn the correct breastfeeding technique, which is important for successful breastfeeding. Your baby’s instinct will guide them to look for the breast, and the first few times you breastfeed will teach them how to get the milk flowing. This also encourages the production of breast milk to start efficiently. Although the start may seem challenging, early initiation and ongoing support from nursing staff or breastfeeding counsellors can be invaluable in ensuring successful initiation and continuity of breastfeeding.
When the position is comfortable for both of you, the breastfeeding experience is more enjoyable and can last longer in a safe and healthy way.
Find the right position: Ergonomics and comfort for breastfeeding
Finding the right breastfeeding position is essential for the comfort and well-being of both the mother and the baby. The wrong position can lead to pain, breast infections or even the baby not getting enough milk. There are several popular breastfeeding positions that every mother and baby can find the one that suits them best. One of the most traditional positions is the cradle position, where the baby lies in the mother’s arms with the baby’s body turned fully towards the mother. The football stance works particularly well after a caesarean section because it reduces the pressure on the mother’s abdomen. In addition, the reclined position can be comfortable at night when breastfeeding.
Ergonomics plays an important role in the success of breastfeeding. It is advisable to use support cushions to help you endure long periods of breastfeeding without muscle strain. It is also important to ensure that the neck and back of both the mother and the baby are supported, which helps to avoid unnecessary strain and pain. When the position is comfortable for both, the breastfeeding experience is more enjoyable and can last longer in a safe and healthy way.
Breast tantrums: How to calm a restless baby?
Breast tantrums, ie. situations where the baby cries or refuses to breastfeed, can be stressful for both the mother and the baby. The key is to stay calm and try to figure out what is causing the baby’s agitation. Sometimes breast tantrums can simply be because the baby is not in the right position or is having difficulty latching on properly to the breast. Make sure that the baby’s mouth is open wide enough and that they have a grip on both the nipple and the nipple shield.
Overactive or tired babies can also cause breast tantrums. Try soothing your baby in your arms before trying again. You can try breastfeeding or offering breast when your baby is calmer or sleepier. Sometimes it can be the speed of the milk flow: if the milk comes too fast, the baby may become anxious, and if the milk comes too slowly, they may become frustrated. In this case, it may help to pre-milk by hand a small amount before breastfeeding, or to try different breastfeeding positions that regulate the milk flow better.
If breast tantrums persist, it is a good idea to discuss this with a health visitor or a breastfeeding support group. They can offer additional advice and support to help you through this challenging time.
Mother’s diet during breastfeeding: What to eat and what to avoid?
During breastfeeding, it is important to pay attention to the diet, as it affects the well-being of both the mother and the baby. A balanced and nutritious diet helps the mother recover from childbirth and supports milk production. It is recommended to include plenty of protein, calcium, iron and omega-3 fatty acids in the diet, all of which are important for the health of both the mother and the child. For example, meat, fish, legumes, whole grains, dairy products and green leafy vegetables are good food sources.
It is also important to drink enough fluids, especially water, because breastfeeding increases the need for hydration. Drinks to avoid instead are drinks containing caffeine such as coffee and tea, as well as alcohol, which can affect the baby’s sleep and well-being. In addition, some mothers find that certain foods, such as spicy foods, cabbage, onions or dairy products, may cause their baby to have stomach problems. Such foods should be used in moderation and monitor how the baby reacts to them. A balanced diet and awareness of which foods affect the baby’s well-being will help make breastfeeding smooth and pleasant for both.
Common challenges of breastfeeding and solutions to them
Common breastfeeding challenges can include painful breasts, blocked lactiferous ducks and baby’s sucking problems. These problems can be frustrating and painful, but there are often effective solutions. For example, pain in the breast or blocked lactiferous ducks can often be relieved with warm compresses or gentle massage before breastfeeding, which promotes milk production. It is also important to ensure the correct breastfeeding position and the correct attachment of the baby so that breastfeeding does not cause pain.
If the baby has difficulty latching on to the breast or sucks ineffectively, it may be useful to consult a breastfeeding consultant or a speech therapist who can evaluate the baby’s oral motor skills. In addition, if the breastfeeding sessions feel too intense, the mother should seek support and advice. Other common challenges can be, for example, over- or underproduction in milk, both of which can be controlled with the right techniques and finding a rhythm. In the challenges related to breastfeeding, it is important that the mother receives the necessary support and information so that the breastfeeding experience is as positive as possible for both the mother and the baby.
Increasing milk production: Effective methods and tips
Increasing milk production may be necessary if you feel that you do not have enough milk to meet your baby’s needs. Fortunately, there are several effective ways and tips that can help increase milk production. Firstly, the frequency and regularity of breastfeeding is key: the more often you breastfeed, the more milk your body produces. Make sure you breastfeed or pump milk at least 8-12 times a day. It is also important to empty the breast properly, because the remaining milk can slow down the production of new milk. You can use a breast pump in addition to breastfeeding to ensure that the breasts are completely emptied. This can be especially helpful if your baby isn’t sucking effectively.
It’s good to also pay attention to diet and hydration. Make sure you get enough protein, calcium and other important nutrients and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day. Some mothers may also benefit from the use of galactagogues such as fennel, anise or papaya, as they can help increase milk production naturally. Finally, don’t forget the importance of rest and stress management. Fatigue and stress can negatively affect milk production, so try to take care of your own well-being as much as possible. Getting support from family or professionals can be valuable for increasing milk production.
Breastfeeding and work life: This is how you combine breastfeeding and work
Combining breastfeeding and work life can seem challenging, but with the right planning and preparation, it is possible. First of all, it is important to talk to the employer about continuing to breastfeed after returning to work. Many workplaces already offer opportunities for flexibility, such as breastfeeding breaks or work time arrangements, which make it easier to continue breastfeeding.
A good strategy is to start pumping and storing breast milk early before returning to work. This not only creates a supply for the baby to use while you are away, but also helps maintain milk production. Regular pumping during the work day helps to avoid mastitis and maintain milk production.
Make sure you have a reliable breast pump and the collected milk is stored properly. In addition, it is useful to have a close connection with a day care provider who understands the baby’s feeding routines and ensures that the baby accepts bottle feeding. Communication at work and at home, as well as flexibility and patience are key when trying to combine breastfeeding and a full-time work life.
It is important to listen to both your own and the child’s readiness to stop breastfeeding.
Stopping breastfeeding: How and when to switch to solid foods?
Stopping breastfeeding is a significant stage in the life of both the mother and the child, and its timing and method can vary greatly from one family to another. In general, it is recommended that breastfeeding be continued until the end of the baby’s first year, but many continue even after this. Stopping breastfeeding should be done gradually so that it is easier for both the mother and the child to adapt to the change physically and emotionally.
The transition to solid foods is usually started at the age of six months, which makes it easier to gradually stop breastfeeding later. It is important that the child gradually learns to eat and like different foods, as this would also support their nutritional development. The amount of breastfeeding can be reduced little by little by replacing one or more breastfeeding sessions with solid food.
When you decide it’s time to stop breastfeeding completely, you can systematically reduce the number of times you breastfeed, one at a time. This also helps to control breast fullness and reduce the risk of blockage. It is important to listen to both your own and the child’s readiness to stop breastfeeding, so that the process is as smooth and painless as possible for both.
Support and counseling for breastfeeding: Where can you get help when you need it?
Breastfeeding support networks and counseling services can be invaluable, especially if you are facing challenges while breastfeeding. It is important to remember that help is available and it is worth taking advantage of it. Maternity clinics usually offer thorough information and support related to breastfeeding. Maternity clinic’s health nurses are trained to help and guide you with breastfeeding issues, and they can offer personal support and advice.
In addition, there are several breastfeeding support groups and associations that offer peer support and expert help. These groups organize meetings, workshops and discussions where you can share your experiences and get tips from other mothers. There are also numerous forums and social media groups online that focus on breastfeeding, offering 24/7 support and information.
If you feel you need more guidance, you can consult a breastfeeding consultant who specialize in breastfeeding support. They can offer individual counseling services and support in all stages of breastfeeding. Remember that breastfeeding challenges are common and there are many different ways to deal with them – you are not alone and there is help available.
