Tips and tricks for a peaceful experience
1. Getting breastfeeding off to a good start: The first hours are crucial
Breastfeeding begins in the first hours after birth. The first milk, called colostrum, is rich in nutrients and essential antibodies for your baby’s immune system. Here are some tips to get started:
Encourage skin-to-skin contact: As soon as possible after birth, keep your baby against your skin. This contact strengthens the bond and stimulates breastfeeding.
Put your baby to the breast as soon as possible: The sooner you start, the faster your milk production will adapt to your baby’s needs.
Adopt a good position: Find a comfortable position for you and your baby. This can be in a cradle hold, lying down, or straddling. A good position allows for effective latching and prevents pain.
2. Overcoming initial difficulties:
What to do in case of pain?
It’s common to experience pain during the first few days of breastfeeding. Here’s how to manage it:
Cracked nipples: If your nipples are painful or cracked, check your baby’s latch. Their lips should cover a good portion of the areola, not just the nipple.
Use a lanolin cream to soothe the cracks.
Engorgement: If your breasts are painfully full, express a little milk by hand or with a pump to relieve the pressure, but don’t empty your breasts
completely to avoid stimulating more milk production.
Blocked milk ducts: A gentle, warm massage can help unblock clogged ducts. Apply a warm compress before breastfeeding and gently massage the affected area
3. Pumping milk: Tips for effective expression
Some moms choose to pump their milk, either to build a stash or to combine breastfeeding with returning to work. Here are some tips for effective pumping:
Create a calm environment: Milk production is influenced by your emotional state.
Choose a time when you can relax and use a pump that meets your needs, whether manual or electric.
Stimulate the milk ejection reflex: Before pumping, apply a warm compress and massage your breasts. This helps with milk flow.
Pump at key times: The times when your milk production is often higher are usually in the morning. Try to pump after breastfeeding or between feedings to build your stash.