Breastfeeding is a beautiful process that can be enjoyed by both mom and baby by expressing gratitude for our amazing bodies, as well as lots of compassion.
For some moms, it comes naturally and the milk flows easily. But for others, it’s a test of patience and dedication.
No matter where you are in your breastfeeding journey, here are a few tips and products that help ease the stress and discomfort of nursing.
Don’t Give Up!
Like learning any new skill, breastfeeding takes time. While you and your little one are getting acquainted with each other for the first time in the outside world, your body has to adjust and warm up to the idea of them latching on. It may take a few tries, a few days, weeks, or maybe even months for you to feel comfortable with it. Honestly, I didn’t feel like I got the hang of the whole motherhood thing until month four! You just have to keep trying.
Don’t get discouraged and be confident that you and your baby are bonding, connecting and will get into a rhythm. Eventually, the discomfort went away, my nipples got used to the feedings and stopped getting chapped or cracked. Our bodies always recover! And if it doesn’t work out no matter how hard you try, you are still an amazing mom. There is nothing wrong with moving on to formula whenever you and the baby are ready.
Finding a Breast Pump
Many insurance companies offer a free breast pump by submitting a claim online with a doctor’s prescription. You can even choose a brand if there’s a specific one you prefer over others. I found that pumping was one of my least favorite activities, though, in the beginning, it’s one of the most important because it keeps your milk supply coming in. Being attached to a pump for 30 minutes at a time every 2 hours was a hassle for me, so I would highly recommend looking for a wireless or handheld option if possible.
Get Reusable Nursing Pads
Having a set of reusable nursing pads is an eco-friendly alternative to disposable nursing pads that may fill up quickly with excess leakage after pumping sessions. Purchasing a cotton or bamboo option allows for breathability and added comfort. They are convenient because you can just throw them into the laundry with your clothes and they dry quickly.
Stay Hydrated and Nourished
Make sure to drink plenty of water, even more water than you usually do. Breastfeeding takes a lot of calories, proper hydration, and balanced nutrition. I found that eating iron-rich foods like oatmeal in the morning helped to maintain my milk supply. There are lots of other fruits and veggies that stimulate milk production including fennel, herbal remedies such as Mother’s Milk tea, and lactation cookies. Drinking water or hot herbal tea while pumping also helped me to express milk easier.
Count Your Blessings, Not the Ounces
It is so easy to get trapped in the counting game. I was constantly worrying about pumping enough ounces of milk to keep up with the demand of my growing baby. The pressure I was putting on myself was depleting my energy and my supply.
The more stressed you are the less milk you produce. Don’t worry so much about how many ounces and bottles you are filling up. The baby will always drink until they are content and will always be well-nourished. Guidelines indicate the recommended amounts you should be giving the baby as a starting point, but all babies are different. I stopped counting ounces and trying to fill bottles and just allowed the baby to get her milk directly from the source. She nurses when she’s ready and she stops when she’s full. It’s a great balance for both of us, and I am forever grateful that I’m able to produce milk to nourish and sustain her.
For more on the benefits of breastfeeding check out this article written by one of our amazing contributors.
