As a Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), I meet many mothers who say to me "I wish someone had told me ...". I would like to share some of these with you, to try to help you along your breastfeeding journey.
Attend an antenatal breastfeeding class before you have your baby
Antenatal breastfeeding classes are a great source of excellent breastfeeding information. These can be organised as public classes through the maternity hospital you are booked in to have your baby with, or through a private Lactation Consultant. It is a great opportunity to ask any breastfeeding questions you or your partner may have, and to learn about breastfeeding before baby arrives.
When to start breastfeeding your baby
The perfect time to start breastfeeding your baby is, ideally, straight after birth. Your baby is normally placed on your chest, in skin-to-skin contact. This is a great time to begin your breastfeeding journey with your baby. You can also try baby-led latching at this stage in a reclining position.
Feeding Baby in the first few days
The first few days of feeding your baby can be around-the-clock. Baby loves to be placed on your chest in skin-to-skin contact. A baby feeding 8-12 times in a 24-hour period is normal at this stage. Try to rest when baby is resting, and allow other people care for you while you care for your baby. Feeding regularly at this stage will help to bring in an excellent milk supply for your baby.
You don’t need a breast pump at this stage
Your baby wants to feed from you and be close to you at this stage. Your newborn baby feeding from your breast is the very best way to increase your milk supply. If you do require a breast pump, it should be used as part of a breastfeeding care plan under the care of a Lactation Consultant (IBCLC).
Don’t wait too long to contact a Lactation Consultant (IBCLC)
If you feel you need additional help and professional support breastfeeding, contact a Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) as soon as possible. An international board certified lactation consultant is the highest level of achievement in breastfeeding. You will be able to work through a breastfeeding plan together to help you achieve your breastfeeding goals.
Attend a breastfeeding support group
A breastfeeding support group is a brilliant way of meeting other mothers who are breastfeeding. Many mothers will share breastfeeding experiences and provide excellent breastfeeding information. Many groups are facilitated by someone who has additional breastfeeding education.
Let people care for you
In the first few days or weeks, it is important to allow other people to care for you while you care for baby. When you are breastfeeding you may be hungry and thirsty more often - this is normal. Keep a big glass of water beside you when breastfeeding, as you may get thirsty. Try to take as much time as possible establishing breastfeeding and bonding with your baby. Ensure you are breastfeeding in comfortable positions, using pillows and cushions to keep comfortable. See Breastfeeding: Positioning and latching your baby.
If you need additional breastfeeding support, or if you are experiencing any difficulties breastfeeding, you can contact a Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) or your health care professional.
