Every baby is born to breast-feed; it is a natural way for a newborn to be nourished. There are many benefits of breastfeeding for both the baby and the mom. Breastfeeding is relatively easy to learn how to do and there is plenty of support and information about how to breastfeed. Nutrition is important and a basic tool for successful breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding Benefits for Both Mom & Baby
Babies benefit from breastfeeding because studies show that those babies who are breastfed for the first six months of life are less likely to develop diarrhea, ear infections, or respiratory illnesses. There are also studies that show it is also possible that breastfed babies are less likely to become obese as children.
The baby and mom benefit because breastfeeding naturally creates a stronger bond between mom and baby.
Moms benefit because breastfeeding delays the return of menstruation and can also help to space pregnancies out more. Breastfeeding has also been shown to reduce the mom’s risk for both breast and ovarian cancer.
Breastfeeding benefits families because it costs less to breastfeed than it does to bottle feed, saves on health costs for the baby and mom, which contributes to a healthier society.
07 Tips for Breastfeeding – Guide to New Mum
New moms know that breastfeeding is not a Kodak moment. Although it is frequently portrayed as the most natural thing in the world, it is rarely as easy as simply sitting down with baby and placing the little one on the breast. Moving the entire procedure from chore to joy sometimes takes a bit of work and breastfeeding tips for new moms need to go beyond the mechanics of the process and take into consideration the surrounding problems and issues as well.
1. Read Relevant Informational Material
Most moms-to-be are presented with lots of reading material concerning pregnancy including how the body prepares for breastfeeding and the benefits to the post-natal body and to the baby of breastfeeding. These informational pamphlets usually also contain information about how to breastfeed and about the value of good prenatal care so that your baby has a better chance of going to full-term so that you can have a smoother start to your breastfeeding as opposed to your baby having to be in NICU which may delay the ability of your baby to nurse.
There are many sources available regarding milk for pregnant mom for learning how to breastfeed including books, magazines, Websites, support groups etc. Your doctor can also tell you about some sources in your community that can be supportive of your breastfeeding.
2. Consult with Hospital Lactation Staff
Most hospitals have lactation consultants on staff. These consultant are trained in not only knowing how to breastfeed but in how to teach new moms how to successfully breastfeed. They are usually available in the hospital to show you the best way to have your baby latch-on and the many proper positions you can use to hold your baby while nursing.
3. Drink Plenty of Water
Every breastfeeding mom needs to understand the connection between proper nutrition and water intake and the success of her breastfeeding endeavors. While breastfeeding you may become thirstier than otherwise, and you may develop a larger appetite than before you started breastfeeding this is all normal and your body’s way of letting you know how important water and proper food are for your body. You can also try majka lactation products to increase your milk supply.
4. Use of Technological Devices
Turn your chore mentality into a more joy oriented experience by using technology. Breast pumps are wonderful devices that allow you to relieve the engorgement of your breasts and at the same time get your baby’s father involved in taking over feeding duty.
5. Get Proper Rest
The more relaxed you are the easier it will be for you to experience letdown, so that your baby will be able to get the most milk possible with each feeding.
6. Split Your Nursing
Be sure to split your nursing session between both breasts, letting your baby feed for the same amount of time from each side. This will help you keep your milk production steady.
7. Monitor Baby Nursing Need
Your baby’s need to nurse will change as he or she grows. You can refer or make your own feeding chart, providing the information that you need to know about how frequently your baby should feed and how to go about adding solid foods to your baby’s diet when the time comes.
Don’t be embarrassed to ask for help if you need it. Having difficulty breastfeeding or requiring support is normal. It doesn’t mean you’re not cut out to be a mother or that there is something wrong with you and your baby. Above all, remember that practice makes perfect. Keep trying and be as patient as possible.