Breastfeeding
Oh breastfeeding…
What do you picture when you think of breastfeeding? Do you envision a calm, smiling mother? Holding her beautiful newborn as he quietly breastfeeds with minimal assistance?
We want to remind you that breastfeeding is a skill that you learn. Like all parts of motherhood there are some that find it an “easier” part of their journey and other that find it very difficult.
What does the journey of breastfeeding actually look like?
The path to building a breastfeeding relationship with your baby can be a lot different than our idealized expectations.
Something that is so “natural” can feel far from it when you’re exhausted; with sore nipples and a crying babe. There might be visits to lactation consultants, jaundice, tongue ties, latch issues, supply issues, cracked nipples, long pumping sessions, plugged ducts or even mastitis.
Maybe baby has complex health needs or must spend some time apart from you in the NICU.
There are so many factors that impact your feeding path. We want to encourage you that if you’re struggling, you’re not alone. Reach out to a professional to get the help you need.
Breastfeeding can be a great way to nurture your newborn and build a strong attachment. If it is how you are choosing to feed your baby, we want to give you some “tips” to set you up for success.
1. Read a good breastfeeding book (preferably pre-baby as time to read is all but non-existent once a newborn arrives). We recommend Breastfeeding Made Simple-Seven Natural Laws for Nursing Mothers.
2. Talk to your partner about why you want to breastfeed.
3. Get a quality breastfeeding pillow. Two we would recommend are the My Breast Friend Nursing Pillow or The Baby Buddy (perk this one is made locally in Calgary)
4. Watch some videos on how to achieve a great latch
5. Snag a very dim light for night time feeds. You don’t want to fully wake anyone in the night but in the beginning, you need to be able to see what you’re doing.
6. Learn about the resources in your area. Le Leche League can be an amazing resource all throughout your journey. Right now, the Le Leche League in Calgary is offering a 2 hr Prenatal Breastfeeding Class September 22nd and 29th.
7. Have a few ziplock bags of popcorn kernels in the freezer to soothe engorged breasts.
8. Get some comfortable breastfeeding bras and tank tops. No matter what; avoid underwire. In the beginning, as it can lead to blocked ducts and a few days of misery.
9. If you’re struggling…reach out, right away. Lots of problems can be addressed but may become bigger issues if left unresolved. Seek out a public health nurse, family doctor, lactation consultant or private breastfeeding support.
10. Talk to another Mom who has breastfeed and who is a support to you. It can be so reassuring to talk to someone who knows the struggles and has made it through to a rewarding breastfeeding relationship.
Above all remember…. You are the decision maker. You get to chose the right feeding method for your family. Breastfeeding doesn’t work for everyone for a multitude of reasons and that’s okay.
You’re the right Mom for your babe.
If breastfeeding isn’t your feeding method of choice or struggles are preventing you from enjoying your baby and having a negative effect on your mental health its okay to feed baby another way.
💙