It’s World Breastfeeding Week so we thought it only fitting to chat to My Midwives Director and Philips Avent Ambassador, Liz Wilkes, on what is often the hardest time when it comes to breastfeeding: the first month.
1. Trust your instinct
A mother’s instinct is always right. Trust yourself and listen to your baby. In the first month it’s important to get both your body and baby into a good rhythm, so when your baby is hungry let them feed as much as they want. Your milk supply is directly related to your baby’s demand, so encouraging long and regular breastfeeding sessions in the early days will help produce your supply and also keep your little one feeling full for hours (and not to mention sleeping longer!) Learn how to increase your milk supply from Majka.
2. Seek support
Asking your midwife to support you with breastfeeding can give you a lot more confidence. A midwife is there for both partners in the relationship, so bring your go-to support person or partner to each of your midwife appointments so they can learn what to expect and also some of the ways they can support you during this wonderful time. Always remember – this is your baby and your body. While it’s good to be open to advice, try to trust your own instincts. And stock up on essentials; breastfeeding dresses make nursing so much easier checkout nappybagstore.com.au for options. Remember no questions are off limits or too embarrassing to be answered. Communication is key!
3. Set up a nursery
When you’re comfortable and relaxed your breast milk flows more easily, so when planning your breastfeeding nursery think about any potential distractions that may impact you or your baby’s concentration. When choosing lighting, avoid halogens and exposed bulbs, instead go for fixtures that offer shaded or diffused light. Also, be sure to invest in a comfortable chair and nursing pillow to help support both your back and arms.
4. Stock up on milk
The task of being solely responsible for feeding your newborn can often feel overwhelming, however its important you do have some time to yourself and share the load with your partner or close family or friends. Using a high quality pump like a Philips Avent Breast Pump to express milk can help you share some of that responsibility, whilst allowing your baby to feed in a nurturing environment without the need for you to be there.
5. Consider education during pregnancy
A breastfeeding class during pregnancy will go a long way to easing the challenges of the first few days of mothering. Knowing what to expect and how to deal with it in advance will make you more confident which will in turn make for better milk flow and better breastfeeding. Your partner is your greatest supporter, so making sure they know how best to support you will ensure a smooth and successful breastfeeding journey. Often a breastfeeding or antenatal class will form a mothers group after birth which provides another level of support for you during breastfeeding.
