Breastfeeding 101

Breastfeeding is such a beautiful experience but can often lead to frustration for some. If there was more information given to each birthing person, maybe they wouldn’t give up so easily. There’s a few tips and tricks that I want to share that can hopefully make your journey with breastfeeding a little easier.

• Let your baby lead

Did you know that your nipples smell like amniotic fluid? And if you have ever wondered why your nipples get darker during pregnancy, one reason is so that your baby can find them. Amazing, right?!

• Skin to Skin

Skin to skin releases oxytocin, which in turn helps milk production. It also aids In latching and bonding with your baby and helps regulate your baby’s body temperature. Skin to skin is beneficial even if you don’t plan to breastfeed. We NEED oxytocin.

• Colostrum

Colostrum, aka “liquid gold“ is the sticky and yellow substance that you produce before your milk comes in. It is an absolute superfood for your baby. It is all your baby needs. 10 drops of colostrum is enough to satisfy your newborn. So when you feel like you aren’t producing enough, just remember that. Colostrum will typically last until your milk has completely came in.

• Hydration

Hydration is SO important, drink drink drink your water! We need to be so hydrated in order to produce adequate amounts of milk.

• Breastfeeding can be slightly uncomfortable but it should never be painful. If it is painful, it means that your baby if not latched correctly. Contact your doctor or a lactation consultant if you are in pain.

• Timing

Watch your baby, not the clock. There are ways you can tell if your baby is full and satisfied. Watch for them to unlatch naturally, or take a long rest. You can usually tell too by their body language.

• If your baby is only getting the nipple, they will get very little milk. You should be feeding from your whole breast, not just the nipple. Having a good attachment produces more milk. If the attachment is shallow, it needs to be corrected. The motion of baby’s jaw will tell you if they are eating well or not. If they are attached correctly, their jaw will drop distinctly as they swallow. Fast sucking without pauses, means they aren’t eating well.

So many just think they aren’t producing enough or baby isn’t getting enough when in reality, it may just be that baby does not have the correct latch! Not producing enough is almost never the case. I hate to see someone give up! It’s such an amazing bonding experience and is SO good for your baby! As I stated above, frustration can be common with breastfeeding. NEVER be afraid to ask for help!