Breastfeeding can come with a learning curve for new mothers and their infants. And, many overwhelmed mothers give up on nursing without proper support and preparation. To help new moms get ready to nurse – and have success – St. Elizabeth lactation consultant Sandi Brown offers some advice.
Educate yourself
Brown suggests pregnant women read as much as they can about breastfeeding and take a breastfeeding class taught by a certified lactation consultant. St. Elizabeth offers a free breastfeeding class for expecting moms who are already participating in a childbirth class. The La Leche League also is a good source for information and for a list of nearby classes.
“If a mom is prepared, it goes much better,” Brown said. “If they go into it blind, then both the mom and baby are learning how to nurse at the same time. Breastfeeding is not an automatic thing for most babies, it is a skill and learned behavior.”
Get support
Before the baby is born, try and rally support from a family member regarding your desire to breastfeed.
“After you leave the hospital with your baby, you are tired and vulnerable,” Brown said. “If you don’t have cheerleaders in your family or community to support you, you are more likely to go to formula feeding.
One day at a time
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding your baby for a year and the first six months the baby should be exclusively breastfed without any other nourishment. However, Brown advises women to take it one day at a time.
“Don’t set your goals too far out, just try and get through the day,” Brown said. “A lot of times women will say that breastfeeding won’t fit into my lifestyle or my work schedule, but any amount of breastmilk is going to change that baby’s life and offer protection ““ any amount is good.”
Take care of yourself
Brown tells breastfeeding women to listen to their bodies. Sleep when the baby sleeps whenever possible, eat when you are hungry, take a prenatal or multi-vitamin and drink additional fluids to replenish what is used to make breastmilk.
Rely on your lactation consultant
It’s a common misconception that a lactation consultant is just there for a new mom in the hospital to help get the baby latched onto the breast. While they do assist with that, their job extends beyond the hospital room, Brown said.
“We are very hands on to help teach the mom how to be successful,” Brown said. “We also have outpatient support, including free infant weight checks every day including weekends and holidays from 1:00-2:00. We offer free breastfeeding consultations on the phone to people who deliver at St. Elizabeth and also to people who deliver elsewhere.”
St. Elizabeth also has a Women’s Wellness Center that sells nursing bras and breast pumps. Don’t forget to check out common breastfeeding positions here.
