Becoming a parent means you have to learn a great deal about many different things. One such challenge is breastfeeding, which can feel overwhelming to think about. It's natural to wonder if it will be painful, if you'll have enough milk, or how to fit it into your day-to-day life. You don't need to have all the answers before your baby arrives.
What Happens in the First Few Days
Your whole body prepares for the arrival of your baby by producing colostrum, the thick, yellow, first milk that contains many antibodies. Your newborn only needs colostrum for the first several days. Between day three and five after delivery, your milk supply will "come in" and begin to transition to mature milk. The timing will vary based on your body and the type of delivery you had.
In these early days, you will typically breastfeed your newborn every two to three hours. It can be exhausting, but this is how you will start to learn your baby's needs. When your baby nurses, you will produce more milk. Your breasts will operate on a supply and demand basis. So instead of watching the clock, follow your baby's cues for when to breastfeed.
Feel Confident With Your Position
For successful breastfeeding, a proper latch is key to comfort. If your baby latches on too shallowly, you will likely experience discomfort such as pinching or pain on your nipples while breastfeeding. For a proper latch, your baby should open their mouth wide with their lips flanged outward, much like a fish. Your breast should touch their chin, and their nose should be slightly away from your breast, not pressed into it.
Experiment with different positions to find what you and your baby will enjoy most. Some mothers use the cradle carry, but may want to use the football carry during a c-section recovery. Take advantage of side lying for nighttime feeds. There's no single correct way, as long as it works for you and your baby. If breastfeeding hurts beyond the first few seconds of attaching, speak with a lactation consultant for adjustments to your body positioning.
Preparing for Breastfeeding While Still Pregnant
Yes, you can start preparing now! Sign up for a breastfeeding course. Many hospitals and community organizations offer free or low-cost options. Talk to your doctor about any concerns with breast changes. Some women find it helpful to hand-express colostrum in the last few weeks of pregnancy and freeze it for later. Always check with your doctor before trying this, especially if you're at risk for preterm labor.
Buy a few essentials: comfortable nursing bras, lanolin cream or nipple balm, and nursing pads for leaking milk. You don't need a lot of gadgets. Many experts suggest waiting until after your baby arrives to buy a pump. But if you need to return to work soon, you'll need to decide about pumping earlier.
Common Challenges and What Helps
Engorgement happens when your breasts have too much milk, making them feel tight or hard. It's uncomfortable, but regularly feeding your baby or pumping a small amount may help relieve some of this pressure. Many women experience sore nipples in the first week after giving birth. If pain continues or your nipple skin starts to crack, your latch may be the issue. A clogged duct feels like a hard, tender spot on the breast. Warm compresses and continuing to nurse usually help.
Many new moms worry about having a low milk supply. According to the CDC, however, most mothers produce enough breastmilk for their infant. To feel more confident, track the number of wet diapers or your baby's weight. Six or more wet diapers per day after day five is a good sign that your baby is getting enough milk. A lactation consultant or your pediatrician can help figure out what's actually going on.
You Are Not Alone
Breastfeeding is a learned process, and you may need time and patience to develop comfort with it. You are not alone. Surround yourself with people who give honest answers and listen without judgment.
At iChoose Pregnancy Support Services, we provide complete support during your pregnancy and the first year of life for your child. That includes help with breastfeeding basics, connecting you to local resources, and education classes where you can earn baby supplies such as diapers, wipes, and car seats.
For more information about preparing to breastfeed, or to discuss anything with a representative from iChoose Pregnancy Support Services, call our office at (919) 585-4353. Our Clayton office is located at 540 Veterans Parkway. You can also call our Knightdale center (919) 679-3232, located at 4019 Village Park Drive. Both offices are here to support you without pressure or judgment. You're welcome to reach out for help at any time!