When we are pregnant, we get tons of advice from anyone and everyone. We get advice about increasing milk supply, baby massage, weight, growth, diapers, what to eat or not, etc.
But hardly anyone tells you about how to make breastfeeding easier and comfortable for yourself because it is hard. As a Mom who breastfed her baby for 2 years, I can tell you it’s not a smooth ride. It’s challenging and full of frustrating moments. But we know it’s all worth it when we see our baby’s content smile.
So, here are a few tips to make your breastfeeding journey a bit easy and comfortable:
- Latching Practice
Babies are supposed to latch onto the breast automatically right? Isn’t it a natural process? No, not really. As it turns out, there are so many technicalities involved in it, the right angle, sitting position, holding the head correctly, etc. So practice when you are in the hospital. Ask the nurses, learn from them, because once you are home with your baby, you have to do it on your own.
- Invest in the right clothes
No, not for your baby, I know you will already be spending so much on baby clothes. I meant the right clothes for you, maternity and nursing wear. Nursing clothes make it easier to nurse anywhere; they are really helpful when you have to feed your baby during travels and when you are in public. Now, you don’t need a whole wardrobe of nursing clothes, just a few comfortable dresses to make feeding your baby easier are enough. And yes, nursing bras are a must, so don’t forget them!
- Pumping
Breast Pumps are a blessing for working Moms as they help you pump and store breast milk easily. But stay at home Moms; you should use breast pumps once in a while too. It can help you provide a necessary break from round the clock feeding, and provide relief to the sore or chaffed nipples. If you are facing problems with engorgement and swellings, pumping can help you with that too.
- Use a Feeding Pillow
I wish I had used a feeding pillow too. But I thought I don’t need it, that normal pillows at home are sufficient to help with the right posture for feeding and providing relief to my arms and shoulders. But after seeing one of my Mom friends using it and how comfortable it makes the feeding for you and your baby, I would suggest new Moms give it a try. It helps you with body pain you get after holding your baby for long periods.
- Use Breast Pads
Milk shooting/leaking is very common in the initial months of breastfeeding. The breast pads absorb the leaking milk and save you from dampness and stains. But do remember to keep changing them frequently to avoid excessive moistness as it can lead to infections.
Also Read: 10 Must-Have Baby Products for New Moms