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Bringing a baby into this world is always a magical experience. And once they are safely in your arms, you have the responsibility to tend to all of their needs, especially if they are food related. Most experts recommend that babies exclusively drink breast milk until they at least reach 6 months old as the nutrients in breastmilk are crucial for their development and growth. Not to mention that the experience can help you feel connected to your baby like nothing else will. But that doesn’t mean that it doesn’t come with its set of complications. Breastfeeding isn’t always as smooth sailing as most women think. But that’s okay, we’re here to help and give you a few tips on how to make your breastfeeding journey feel like a breeze, for you and your baby. Read on to know more!
1. Learn Your Basics
Just like anything else, breastfeeding is a skill. Sure, women have been doing it since the beginning of time, but we assure you that everyone has a learning curve. So if you’d like to prepare beforehand, take a few prenatal breastfeeding classes, ideally at the beginning of the third trimester. Research your options and ask the people around you. Maybe you’d like to enjoy a community class or maybe you’d prefer a one-on-one virtual class from the comfort of your home. Whatever the case may be, the point is to pick up a few basics before the baby arrives. Breastfeeding aside, you may also learn new things you didn’t know you needed and which can come in handy. If possible, try to sign up your partner for the class as well. This way you can both ask important questions and work together when the baby faces issues in the future.
2. Communicate With Your Partner About Your Breastfeeding Goals
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Staying on the same page about breastfeeding might take more than just taking a class together. After each class, take some time to sit down and discuss what your breastfeeding goals look like. Try to be as logical and realistic as possible. The last thing you want to do is set yourself up for failure. Discuss how night feedings can be managed better if you want to exclusively breastfeed the baby. Also talk about when you want to start using bottles and how its sanitation and sterilization can be managed when your partner is off to work, who takes care of the meals and how you can maintain adequate sleep and rest. These things can change once the baby arrives, but it’s best to have a general idea of what your respective schedules will be in terms of feeding your baby.
3. Purchase ONLY The Essentials
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This is some good news for all expecting parents, breastfeeding is not expensive. So instead of splurging on every gadget you can find, opt for a few essentials that will make a big difference. If you are going to pump your milk, a top-quality electric breast pump will do the job. Order your pump after you’ve learnt a few things from your classes, and before the arrival of the baby. Spend time learning to sanitize the parts of the pump, assembling it, and operating it. This way, everything will be ready to go once the baby arrives. You’ll also want to get a couple of bottles with slow flow nipples when your partner is taking the night shift or if you’d like to give your nipples a break. Also consider breastmilk storage bags/bottles, breastfeeding pillows, and some nipple cream or hydrogel cream for your sore nipples. You can even set up a small breastfeeding station right next to your bed with your favorite snacks and a big bottle so that you can stay hydrated while you nurse your baby.
4. Find Your Community
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If there’s anything you need as a new mom it’s support, support, support. The initial weeks of being a new mom can feel especially overwhelming, isolating, and exhausting. But planning ahead will allow you to find people you can rely on and share your journey with. Look up support groups around you, in your community, or join new online forums for parents. You are not alone. Being a part of the community will ease your worries and keep you calm through all the random baby scares.
Breastfeeding a baby isn’t always easy. But with a little bit of preparation and a few tips, you and your baby can have a great bonding experience. Happy breastfeeding!
