Breastfeeding for beginners

BABY CARE TIPS : BABY SICK / BATHING / BREASTFEEDING /

How can I prepare for breastfeeding?
As long as you're healthy, there's not much more you can do to prepare your body for breastfeeding. But you can prepare your mind.

Learn as much about breastfeeding as you can before your baby is born. See our article about preparing to breastfeed. Encourage your partner to find out about breastfeeding, too, so he can support you.

How do I start breastfeeding?
Since feeds can take anything from five to 40 minutes, pick a comfortable place for breastfeeding. Atmosphere is important, especially in the early days of breastfeeding when you're still trying to get the hang of it.

If you are easily distracted by noise, find somewhere quiet. If you tend to get bored, you may want to feed with the radio or television on, but only if breastfeeding is going well for you and your baby. Try different spots until you find what works for you.

Hold your baby in a position that won't make your arms and back ache. Have cushions or pillows on hand to support your baby. Many moms find cradling their baby across their chest, raised up on a cushion or pillow, works well. It just depends on what is most comfortable for you. See our article on positions for breastfeeding to give you some ideas.

Get yourself and your baby in a relaxed position before you start feeding. Pay attention to how your breasts feel when your baby latches on. She should take in a big mouthful of breast tissue.

If latching on hurts, break the suction by gently inserting your little finger between your baby's gums and your nipple and try again. Once your baby latches on properly, she will be able to do the rest. Our article on how to breastfeed has pictures to help you.

Before you think that you breastmilk is inadequate and decide to give up on breastfeeding altogether, consider the correctness of the feeding position and technique, the adequacy of your diet, rest and emotional status, and any disturbance or illness in your baby.

How easy is breastfeeding?
Some women adjust to breastfeeding easily. But many new moms find it hard to get going. So if you're feeling discouraged, remember that you're not the only one. If you feel like giving up, or just want advice, get in touch with a breastfeeding specialist.

She can watch you feed your baby and suggest ways to make it easier for both of you. These experts in the art of breastfeeding can watch you feed your baby and make recommendations. Support groups such as La Leche League (Philippines), The Breastfeeding Clinic and LATCH can all put you in touch with skilled supporters. Also, talk to your doctor or midwife about any health concerns that may impede successful breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding takes practice. Think of it as a skill you have to learn from scratch. Give yourself as much time as you need to get it down to a fine art. Take it a day, a week or even just a feed at a time.

Lack of motivation to breastfeed, anxiety, fear or uncertainty experienced by the mom are documented factors that interfere with successful lactation. It is thus important for you to have a positive attitude towards breastfeeding, and to be persistent at it even when it can prove tedious or when the realities of daily life (and work) come in the way.

If you're having a bad feeding day, tell yourself that tomorrow will be better. And keep in mind that any problems you are having are likely to pass. By the time of your postnatal check, you'll probably be breastfeeding without giving it a second thought. If not, don't hesitate to ask for support from your doctor.

Can I breastfeed in public?
Although you may feel shy about breastfeeding in front of other people, it's perfectly acceptable to do so. Moms in the Philippines have a legal right to breastfeed in public.

Some tops are designed to allow you to breastfeed discreetly. Shirts that you have to unbutton will make you feel exposed as you feed, and buttons are a fiddle you can do without. Stretchy tops you can pull up work well. If it makes you feel more comfortable, drape a scarf or blanket over your shoulder and chest while you feed. This will give you and your baby privacy. Make sure your baby can breathe easily, though.

Some larger shops have mother and baby rooms where you can sit comfortably and feed alongside other moms.

Remember that breastfeeding your baby when she's hungry is your first priority. There's no need to feel self-conscious about doing what's best for her. Soon, when breastfeeding becomes more familiar, you won't think twice about feeding your baby in public.

What should I buy for breastfeeding?
Your most important purchase will be comfortable breastfeeding or nursing bras. You'll need at least two. These bras provide the extra support that your larger-than-usual breasts need. They come with hooks or zips that you can easily undo when you need to feed.

Make sure that they are properly fitted and that any flaps open completely. If only a small part of your breast is exposed, the bra may squash you and cause blocked ducts. You may prefer to wait until after your baby is born to buy bras, to make sure you get ones that fit perfectly.

Some moms find that their breasts have a tendency to leak. Another baby's cry or the sight of a baby can stimulate milk flow. It's a good idea to keep a supply of breast pads handy. You can stock up on washable pads, or buy disposable ones.

You may also wish to buy equipment to express your breastmilk. Read more about what to buy for breastfeeding.

Can I breastfeed after I go back to work?
Yes. If you go back to work it doesn't mean you have to stop breastfeeding. In fact, moms who work outside the home are often able to feed their babies for as long as they want. You may want to express milk at work or breastfeed only when you are with your baby, and give her formula during the day. Both are possible.

Let your employer know in writing if you want to breastfeed after you return to work. Your employer is obligated by law to provide space in the workplace for you to express breastmilk. Read our article on breastfeeding and working for more information.

If your employer is well informed, they may know that moms who carry on breastfeeding after they return to work take less time off. This is because breastfed babies are less likely to be ill.