For some mums breastfeeding can be a little difficult and can struggle to get to grips on it. 
 
This is usually down to new mothers not knowing eveything they need to know about feeding their little one themselves.
 
So, if you have made the decision to feed your baby yourself, here are ten things that you may not have known will happen.
 
Your stomach hurts
Breastfeeding helps your stomach muscles to contract back to their normal size and it can be quite painful. It feels like really bad period cramps but should ease after a while and will help your stomach return to it's original size.  
 
You will leak
When you think about, see or hear your baby, your body releases oxytocin which helps stimulate milk production. And you will leak, and usually at the most inconvenient times. Thankfully, there are plenty of bra pads that you can use for times like these. 
 
It hurts
Not only will your stomach hurt but as your child gets used to latching on it can be quite painful. However, as they get to girps with it everything will feel natural.
 
Your nipples will crack
Don’t be surprised if your nipples become sore and crack. To ease any discomfort generously apply cream to your nipples to keep them soft and supple.
 
You might not actually like it
Just because you have decided to breastfeed your baby from the start it doesn’t mean that you will necessarily enjoy it. If you are struggling talk to your midwife and don’t be afraid to stop if you want to. How you want to feed your baby is entirely up to you.
 
It can affect your sex life
No, not because your other half is turned off. Oestrogen levels are low when you are nursing which can cause dryness down there and your breasts are likely to be sore, so you probably won’t find it enjoyable. But as your body returns to normal you will feel better able for it. 
 
Your milk changes colour
For the first six weeks your body will produce colostrum which has a yellow tinge. Over time it will change to suit your baby’s need and become whiter in colour.
 
Skin-to-skin contact can be calming
The skin-to-skin contact that comes with breastfeeding can actually have a calming effect on both you and baby.
 
Your milk has a distinctive smell
Every mother’s milk has a distinctive smell that your baby will be able to distinguish.
 
You may feed for hours on end
Your baby can feed for an hour or even two at each sitting, so make sure you have something to do that involves little movement. 

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