Even if breastfeeding seems innate and natural For some moms, each breastfeeding journey is unique and can present challenges. You are in the right place to find out about the subject and maximize your chances of success! Listen to your body and the your baby's needs, and above all, do not hesitate to ask for help if necessary. Let’s discover together 8 expert tips for experiencing a fulfilling breastfeeding experience !
Practice skin-to-skin care from birth 1️⃣
Put your baby in skin-to-skin contact from the first moment and do not delay in putting him to the breast. This will allow him to be guided by your scent and to suckle in a manner more instinctive.
If the first feeding takes place more than 6 hours after birth, the sucking reflex will be less natural. Also avoid perfumes and essential oils which could disturb their sense of smell (also valid for people who visit you in the maternity ward).
Experiment with different breastfeeding positions 2️⃣
Try multiple breastfeeding positions until you find the one that suits you best. That is to say, the most comfortable for you and your baby.
A good alignment will always promote effective suction and minimize pain. So here we go, we try the position of the Madonna, the rugby ball or even the koala… there are some more than ten that you can test!
Don't put pressure on yourself 3️⃣
One of the biggest concerns for breastfeeding moms is whether their baby drinks enough milk. So even if you can't know how much milk is ingested, as long as baby is wet at least 5 to 6 diapers per day and that weight gain is regular, there is no apparent reason for concern.
Keep in mind that many factors can nevertheless impact your breastfeeding: difficulty breastfeeding, growth spurt, disrupted milk production, etc.
So don't hesitate to inform you as much as possible on the subject of breastfeeding as on the website of the association of La Leche League For example.
We also advise you to listen during your feedings THE Boob Boob podcast. Designed especially for this moment and created by a general practitioner and a pharmacist, it is a real mine of information and breastfeeding advice !
Change breasts at each feeding 4️⃣
This tip will help you balance your feelings about breastfeeding and do not systematically solicit the same breast. This also helps to promote better milk production and avoid congestion. But above all, that baby does not develop a preference for one of the two sides!
Right-handed or left-handed, it doesn't matter: for better comfort and to balance stimulation of the breasts, be ambidextrous moms ! And if you are afraid of not remembering which side you last gave, there is some tips for you simplify life (and lighten your mental load in the process!).
Be flexible and adapt 5️⃣
It is normal for the baby change your feeding schedule as he grows. Growth peaks or developmental phases can influence one's behavior. So don't worry if you see him changing his habits, on the contrary, change with him by adapting to these developments.
So even if sometimes it's difficult or you're feeling sluggish, to give yourself the best chance, always keep calm, drink lots of water and above all, do not hesitate to ask for advice from a midwife in case of doubts.
Express your milk to share breastfeeding 6️⃣
A tip for managing breastfeeding is to express milk and keep it. Moreover, it can even be frozen and stored for several months !
With the portable breast pump Emy Pump, expressing milk becomes a task simple and practical because you keep your hands free to continue your activities. No wire, cable or pipe constraints, you are free to move !
The co-parent can then take over to feed your baby when you are busy, out or simply want some time to rest, well deserved !
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Prevent stretch marks 7️⃣
To tone your chest and boost your milk production, you can regularly practice self-massage. Go for movements soft and circular to avoid discomfort.
Be careful, if pain is felt, do not force it. It is essential to listen to your body: adjust the pressure and do not hesitate to consult if necessary.
Ask for help if needed 8️⃣
Although it's always tempting to compare yourself to other moms, remember that every breastfeeding journey is different. For example, just because your first breastfeeding went smoothly doesn't mean the second will be the same. Or vice versa.
The most important thing therefore remains to be listening to your needs and those of your baby. Do not hesitate to ask for help from those around you or from advice from healthcare professionals trained in breastfeeding to support you and make your breastfeeding a fulfilling experience!
