You spent nine months focused on labor and delivery. Now give yourself some time to learn the mom and baby breastfeeding dance. Breastfeeding is a learning process for both you and your baby. Even if you have breastfed before, each child is different. Breastfeeding takes time and you learn it by doing it. Here are a few things to keep in mind in the first few weeks of breastfeeding.
Think of a Large MarbleThis is roughly the size of a newborn’s stomach. With this in mind, your baby needs to eat at least every two to three hours (despite what you may think, your baby is not eating more often than others.). And if you have concerns about producing enough milk to keep up to this demand, don’t. What your baby takes, your body makes – you will have enough milk.
Ouch!!Breastfeeding may cause sore nipples in the first few days, but it should not hurt for the whole feeding or longer than a few days. If pain persists, don’t “tough it out” – seek help. There’s an abundance of resources and support available to help you breastfeed (see next page). Roughly 95 percent of the time, the solution to sore nipples comes by simply improving the latch.
Yowza … Are These My Breasts?!Didn’t think your breasts could ever be this big? Don’t worry, they’ll settle down after the first few days. And then, when you’ve established a regular nursing schedule, they’ll settle down in size and weight again. In the meantime, enjoy your cleavage.
Make Peace with Dust BunniesLet dust bunnies and dirty dishes become your friends for the first few weeks. The world will not stop if you have a messy house or do not make a four-course dinner every night. Now is the time to concentrate on your baby; to get to know one another, learn to read his or her cues, sing silly songs, whatever. Be sure to ask for help or accept it when offered. Friends and family are great at folding laundry, making meals, running errands, etc.
Listen to Your InstinctsIf you’re hungry, eat. If you’re tired, nap. If you want to wear pajamas all day, do. If you’re too tired to welcome visitors, defer. In other words, it’s essential to take care of yourself as well as your baby in these first few weeks – you are doing important work.
Mastering the DanceBy about six weeks, you and your baby will have learned the breastfeeding dance and settled into somewhat of a routine. Life will feel more familiar again, your breasts will look more familiar again, and suddenly, your family is the new familiar. So remember, breastfeeding takes time. Give yourself and your baby time to transition, to learn, to relax, and to fall in love.
Successful breastfeeding happens with support. Every baby and mother is unique and may require unique support. If you have any uncertainties about your breastfeeding or are experiencing other difficulties, seek out help immediately. Many hospitals offer access to lactation consultants while you are still there, and some may even offer at-home visits. In addition, breastfeeding supplies, such as pumps, may also be available through your hospital or a local lactation consultant. There are also many community resources available to help you with all of your questions and problems – big or small. Here are some organizations that can help:
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Ambler Nursing Moms•
Breastfeeding Resource Center (215) 886-2433
• Family Breastfeeding Association (215) 785-1843
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La Leche League• North Penn Nursing Mothers (215) 368-1573
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Nursing Mothers’ Advisory Council•
Nursing Mothers’ Alliance• Nursing Mothers Inc. (302) 733-0973
• Nursing Mothers’ Network (610) 626-0220