Putting together the pieces of breastfeeding when you have a new baby can be challenging. Especially if it’s your first time. If you are among the many new moms who feel confused about how to start and continue breastfeeding, this step-by-step guide will come in handy. Whether you are planning on tandem feeding or want to exclusively breastfeed your little one – these tips and tricks will come in handy. This article covers everything you need to know about how to breastfeed your baby by tackling topics such as how long should you breastfeed, the best positions for breastfeeding, what are the risks of not breastfeeding enough, and so much more.
What is the recommended time to breastfeed?
There is absolutely no right or wrong time to stop breastfeeding. It is completely up to you and your baby. The general consensus among lactation experts is breastfeeding can last anywhere between six months to two years. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months. After six months, you can slowly introduce a combination of breast milk and solids. That being said, even after your baby turns one, breastfeeding can still be beneficial. Breast milk is rich in antibodies and nutrients that help your baby grow and fight off infections. Breastfeeding can be especially helpful for babies who suffer from allergies or digestive issues. If you are planning on breastfeeding, it is best to start as soon as possible. That way, you’ll have enough time to establish a good breastfeeding pattern that works for both you and your little one.
Tips for Tandem Feeding: How to Breastfeed Your Baby Together
While breastfeeding is a wonderful way for your baby to get all of the nutrients, vitamins, and minerals she needs for healthy growth and development, it can also be a bit overwhelming for new moms. If you are tandem feeding and breastfeeding, it is crucial to get the latch right, since it can make all the difference in the world for your baby’s health and comfort. If you want to tandem feed and breastfeed your babies, here are a few tips to help you out:
Make sure both babies are positioned at the right height so that they are close to the breast. This can be done by using a breastfeeding pillow or putting the baby on your lap.
Make sure that you get the latch right. If you notice that one of your babies is having difficulty breastfeeding, try adjusting her position so that the latch is right and she can feed without any issues.
When feeding your other baby, you can either hold her in your lap facing your body or on your shoulder.
Ensure that you burp both babies after feeding them.
If your babies are being fed in a stroller or in an infant car seat, you can use a breast milk bag to make the feeding process easier.
Tips to make breastfeeding easier
Breastfeeding can be challenging, especially in the beginning when your little one has not yet learned how the correct breastfeeding latch. Here are a few tips that can make breastfeeding a little easier:
Breastfeeding is an art. Start by reading up on how to correctly latch your baby on and how to position her correctly. You can also look up breastfeeding aids such as breastfeeding pillows that can make the process a little easier.
Drink plenty of water and eat healthy, nutritious foods to help you produce enough breast milk.
Breastfeed frequently. This will not only help you produce more breast milk but will also allow your baby to feed more comfortably.
If your baby has colic, sleeping in an Ergo Wrap or sling can help her feel more relaxed and allow her to sleep longer.
Try breastfeeding in different positions. Different positions can make the process easier for both you and your baby.
5 Reasons Why You Might Not be Able to Breastfeed Enough
Breastfeeding is a great way to feed your baby, but it is not a guarantee that your baby will get enough nutrients. There are a few reasons why your baby might not be able to get enough nutrients from breastfeeding. Here are a few reasons why you might not be able to breastfeed enough:
Your baby is not latching on correctly. If your baby is not latching on correctly, she might not be able to draw enough milk to get the nutrients she needs. You can help by consulting with a lactation consultant who will be able to identify the issue and help you correct it.
Your breasts are not producing enough milk. If your baby is less than a week old, it is normal for your breasts to produce colostrum, which is thinner than breast milk. As your baby grows and starts breastfeeding, your breasts will start producing breast milk. If you have just given birth, you might need more time to build up your milk supply.
Your baby is too young. Your baby might not be able to get enough nutrients from breastfeeding if she is less than one week old. Your baby might also not be able to get enough nutrients if she is premature. Your healthcare provider will advise you on when to start breastfeeding and what to do if your baby is too young to breastfeed.
You are taking certain medications. Some medications, such as anti-depressants, anti-anxiety medications, and narcotic pain medication can reduce the amount of breast milk you produce and affect the taste of your breast milk.
You are experiencing health issues. If you are experiencing a health issue such as an infection or blocked ducts, your breast milk supply might decrease as a result.
3 Best Positions for Breastfeeding Mums
Whether you are breastfeeding a newborn or an older baby, there are a few positions and ways you can hold your baby while breastfeeding. Here are a few positions you can try when breastfeeding your baby:
Cradle Hold. Place your baby on your lap facing toward you and hold her with one arm. With your other arm, gently place one of your nipples in her mouth. As she feeds, make sure to use your finger to keep her little head in place.
Cross-Cradle Hold. While breastfeeding your baby in the cross-cradle hold, you will need to sit upright. Place your baby on one leg and gently put her head on your other leg. With your hand, bring your breast to your baby’s mouth.
Side-Lying Hold. Place your baby on your lap and lie down on your side. Place your baby’s legs on your leg and her head on your arm. Let your baby latch on your breast and feed comfortably.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding is a very natural act, but it can be challenging in the beginning. If you are breastfeeding, make sure to drink plenty of water and eat healthy, nutritious foods to help you produce enough breast milk. It is also important to get the latch right since it can make all the difference in the world for your baby’s health and comfort. If you are having issues breastfeeding your baby, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor or visit your local breastfeeding center. Together, you can work through your issues and make breastfeeding a wonderful experience for both you and your little one.