Breastfeeding Tips For A First Time Mum

by Ashlynne (follow)

Parenting (50)      Motherhood (45)      Breastfeeding (3)     

Here are seven breastfeeding tips for first time mums:

1. Nursing pillows are the best. I foolishly thought any old pillow would do when I couldn't find one at my local Target, but I then purchased one a few months later and it made a world of difference.



My biggest advice to you ladies is to have one from the beginning. Standard ones start at $50 and go upward from there. They also make quite large ones to accommodate twins.

There are usually some second hand ones available online or it's also possible to use a triangle pillow or two as another option.

2. Nipple shields have multiple purposes. They aren't just wonderful for protecting against pain, but they also aid in attachment.



They come in different sizes and I recommend  buying one before bub is born if you plan to breastfeed, just in case bub has trouble latching.

The lactation consultant gave me one just before we left the hospital which really helped. These are available in chemists or baby related stores.

3. Make yourself comfortable. Breastfeeding chairs are great. You want to have everything within arms reach for when your new born bub wants to cluster feed and you're sitting down for long periods of time.

Keep a bottle of water on hand to keep hydrated, as well as the tv remote, snacks and your phone charger, and get nice and cozy.

4. Don't hesitate to seek help from a lactation consultant. Correct positioning and attachment is important.

Breastfeeding should only hurt initially when you are getting used to it and then be fine after that. Or if bub is having trouble feeding and you can't work out why, there could be an underlying issue such as a tongue tie that aren't always initially obvious.

5. Educate yourself on common breastfeeding myths and misconceptions. There are a lot out there and you don't want something untrue to hinder your breastfeeding journey. Such as making an informed decision about supplementing with formula.

If you are worried, you can read up on reliable signs your baby is getting enough milk.

6. Reading up on cluster feeding and learning bubs feeding cues will be extremely helpful. You'll want to be doing lots of tip number 3 during cluster feeds.

7. Relax and feel proud of yourself. Breastfeeding is a wonderful but challenging journey and you're doing a fantastic job mama.



Please feel free to check out my other articles about my own breastfeeding journey and how to stop your breastfeed baby from biting.



#Motherhood
#Parenting
#Breastfeeding

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