6 Practical Things I Wish I Knew About Breastfeeding Before I Started

I’ve read books and attended classes but nothing completely prepared me for the difficulty of breastfeeding. As a first time mom scouring the internet for answers at 3am, I wondered how easier it would have been if breastfeeding came with an instructional manual, at least with these six practical things highlighted. But then again, it wouldn’t have been this adventure-filled and memorable if it did. Sharing some things I wished I knew about breastfeeding before I even started. Feel free to add to the list in the comment section, mama!

1. That it will be difficult for my baby to latch if my breasts are too full

Your breast hardens when it’s engorged or has too much pressure from over milk supply. When this happens, it makes it impossible for your baby to latch on. Try hand-expressing your milk to release the pressure or use your preferred breast pump. Offer your breast to your baby again after and see the difference.

2. That my baby can help me produce enough milk

Your baby is your partner in breastfeeding. Trust that he/she knows exactly how to play the part so that the both of you will succeed. You’ll notice that in order to increase your milk supply, your baby will latch and feed more frequently to help your body produce more milk. You’re not alone after all, mama. Your little one knows how to help you.

3. That the more I worry about my milk supply, the lesser milk I'll produce

When you’re a first-time mom, everything is new and intimidating. It’s normal to worry and question if what you’re doing is correct and enough. Your worry then turns into stress which releases Cortisol in your body, affecting your overall milk supply–then causing another cycle of worry! Find ways on how to ease your mind from the stress–read a book, go for a walk, do something that relaxes you. Be grateful for the little human you have in your arms and know that you’re a good mother.

4. That I don't need too much breastfeeding gadgets

Of course you want only the best for your baby. So, you go through your social media feed, follow all brands related to breastfeeding, and the next thing you know, your checkout cart is full! Only a first-time mom knows the real pressure. There are numerous brands with numerous products that claim to make breastfeeding easier and more comfortable. If it makes you feel more prepared, go ahead and try them out. But also know that a breastfeeding pillow and a breast pump may actually be the only things you’ll need.

5. That breastfeeding in a side-lying position can help me get more sleep

Breastfeeding in a side-lying position takes practice and confidence. But once you and your baby get the hang of it, it means more sleep time for you too, mama! If you’re co-sleeping with your baby, this feeding position will allow you to easily roll over to your side to meet your baby’s needs.

6. That breastfeeding is not just about the milk

We can all stress and obsess about our milk supply, but is it all there is to it? The answer is no. Breastfeeding gives so much more to your baby more than milk–physical touch, comfort, safety, belongingness, warmth, and so much more that’s also vital for your baby’s growth and development. So, mama, keep your baby close and enjoy the moments you get to hold him/her in your arms. Breastfeeding is not just about your milk. It’s about your special bond with your baby that’s irreplaceable.

 

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  1. Thank you for sharing that breastfeeding tips. Im a firtstime mom and natalac is my partner to this journy. 🌻

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