5 Ways To Prepare For Breastfeeding

Breast milk remains the best source of nutrition for your baby as it contains all the essential nutrients required for your baby’s development.

Why breastfeeding is difficult for some new moms

There are several reasons breastfeeding can be difficult for new moms, although some of these reasons differ from person to person. Sometimes these difficulties can make you dread breastfeeding or have you gritting your teeth while at it.

Below are some of those challenges:

Improper latching: This is when a baby’s mouth is not properly attached to the nipple during breastfeeding. This is the most common cause of nipple pain especially because the baby is just beginning to learn how to suckle. If this continues over time, the nipple becomes cracked and sore thereby making breastfeeding a painful process.

Engorgement: This refers to a painful swelling of your breast which usually occurs in the first few days of breastfeeding. This is normally experienced in women who have an increased blood flow and milk influx way more than the baby can take per feeding. When your breast is engorged, it causes a great discomfort because it becomes too heavy and the skin around your breast is overly sensitive, and tender.

Low milk supply: Just as we have mothers whose breasts are engorged, some have very little supply of milk. This low milk supply may be linked to a variety of factors ranging from excessive blood loss during childbirth, stress and anxiety, certain medications, and hormonal imbalances like PCOS. If you’re experiencing inadequacy in milk production, reach out to your healthcare provider.

Postpartum stress: Emotional instability can cause difficulty in breastfeeding. It is a common feeling associated with being a new mom, there is a tendency of experiencing fatigue and anxiety. If you are passing through this stage of post-delivery, you may find breastfeeding time exhausting.

5 ways to prepare for breastfeeding

Just as we prepare for a baby’s arrival, preparing for breastfeeding is a thing and should begin way before delivery. Here are 5 ways to prepare for breastfeeding for your newborn:

Invest in clothing and other supplies that will ease breastfeeding, this will include nursing bras, supporting pillows, breast pump (if necessary), and milk bottles (in case you are away or indisposed).

Stay on a balanced and nourishing diet while ensuring adequate hydration to meet the demands that will be placed on your body.

Register and attend breastfeeding classes from experienced medical professionals or lactation consultants. Take time to learn about breastfeeding basics.

Read books on breastfeeding and get into support groups of people with the same experience as you.

Know that every mom’s breastfeeding experience is different, therefore be prepared for your challenges. Practice deep breaths, enough sleep, and other relaxation techniques, having an early mental preparedness helps to keep off anxieties.

Breastfeeding is a skill that gets better with practice. It may be a little bit overbearing during the first few weeks but it gets easier with time. Bear in mind that no one gets it right before trial.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I massage my breast to boost breast milk flow?

Yes, breast massage also known as lactation massage may provide a much-needed stimulant to milk flow. The massage helps to unclog milk ducts and ease milk production.

Can hot tea increase breast milk flow?

Taking lactation teas may help improve milk supply, this is because they contain essential herbs like chamomile, fenugreek, and milk thistle, which are known for their relaxation properties. You must check with your medical doctor before taking any herbal-based products.

Can I take palm wine before breastfeeding?

There is no scientific proof to show that palm wine offers any solution to low milk supply or corrects any breastfeeding anomaly. It is not advisable to drink palm wine while breastfeeding as it can get into the breast milk thereafter disrupting your baby’s sleep pattern.