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Preparing for a newborn is a lot – diapers, wipes, baby clothes, and OBGYN appointments. But one area that might be overlooked is breastfeeding.
It’s one of those things you have to experience to truly get it. Even though it’s natural and women have been doing it since the beginning of time, it can come with a lot of questions and require you to get personal, especially in the early weeks.
When I first started on my breastfeeding journey, I remember feeling unsure and overwhelmed. I was a first-generation nurser and didn’t have any idea what to expect. Thankfully, I was (and still am) able to breastfeed my two children – and I’m sharing all the tips and tricks you should know!
1. Understand breastfeeding and birth control
Know before delivery that although breastfeeding suppresses ovulation by producing the hormone prolactin, it is not considered a reliable source of birth control alone. Many OBGYNs touch on this topic after birth. If you are not looking to get pregnant, talk to your doctor about pregnancy prevention options that are suitable while breastfeeding.
2. Ask your OBGYN for a breast pump prescription
They will refer you to a breast pump provider who will communicate with your insurance and help you pick out a pump your insurance covers. Most insurances require you to wait until the third trimester to apply for a breast pump, so take some time to do your research.
3. Pack smart for the hospital
Be sure to add nipple cream and hair ties to your bag.
After delivery, the hospital staff will ask if you’d like a lactation consultant to come in and answer any questions you have. Use this time as much as you can!
1. Have them check your newborn’s latch.
A good latch is learned for both you and baby – it does not always come naturally.
2. Ask them to check for any tongue or lip ties.
It’s best to catch these early on since they can prevent a successful latch and cause breastfeeding to be painful.
3. Don’t be shy – ask if she can measure your nipples.
Knowing the size is essential to using your breast pump. Pump flanges come in different sizes, with 24mm and 28mm included with most pumps. But it’s not uncommon to be neither of those sizes. If your breast pump does not include your size, check Amazon for the correct size flange.
A few days after delivery, your breasts will go through a period engorgement where breast milk is being produced abundantly to make sure baby has enough food. This can be painful but it’s temporary and may make your breasts feel hard, sore, and lumpy.
Tips that Helped Me
Occasionally, lumps can be lactating adenomas, which are benign and typically go away after ending your breastfeeding journey. However, with any breast lumps that form, it’s always good to check in with your doctor, especially if they are persistent after two weeks of giving birth.
Keeping breast pads in your nursing bra will help prevent leakage as let-downs will be spontaneous and random in the first few months.
Since let-downs can be strong, your baby may unlatch while nursing as they acclimate to the milk output. They’ll adapt eventually, but putting a burp cloth under your breast can help you cover up quickly and prevent breast milk from spraying when the baby unlatches.
The first few weeks of breastfeeding can feel overwhelming and isolating. You’re learning, baby’s learning, and there’s no manual.
One thing to do that really helped me: ditch the one-year goal. Start with realistic goals that are still wins.
“Let’s start with one week, then two, a month, three, and so on.”
This mindset motivated me on those days I really wanted to give up.
If you need help, seek a lactation consultant – some insurances will cover one! Or connect with your local moms’ group to share experiences and tips of what worked for them. Here’s a private Facebook group I enjoy: Alcove Moms. Just click the link, answer the questions, and join us for “all things mom”!
Breastfeeding can be a beautiful bonding experience. It does get better, and the pain does go away. Every nursing journey looks different – and that’s okay. Just be patient with yourself and your baby.
You got this, mama! 💕
On a side issue, if you need assistance with baby items, reach out – we can help! Call or visit our appointment page to request a material needs appointment!
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