Getting ready to breastfeed
Just like you’re researching everything about pregnancy, it’s time to prep for breastfeeding too! Contact your local Lactation Consultant, find reliable resources and support groups in your area and talk to people who have breastfed their own babies.
If you’ve had breastfeeding troubles in the past, consider an antenatal consultation with an IBCLC and make a plan for feeding alongside your birth plans.
2. Relax, and Let Others Do the Heavy Lifting:
Post-baby life is all about bonding with your little one and figuring them out as you get to know them. It’s time to say “yes” to any help you get. Make a list of jobs around the house which are important to you and stick it on the fridge before baby arrives. When friends or family ask how they can help, just point them to the list so you can receive the help you need whilst you get to know your baby.
3. Hack the postnatal period:
Consider hiring a postnatal doula. They’re like your personal support system, helping with everything from breastfeeding to baby care. It’s like having a superhero by your side!
Breastfeeding in the Early Days
4. Expectations: Tiny Tummies, Big Needs
Babies used to have a 24/7 food supply in the womb and now need frequent feeds (every 1.5–2 hours) in the 24 hours after birth, and every 2-3 hours after that. They also love being held and may cry when put down. It’s totally normal! Most mums can produce plenty of milk, and those early feeds help build your supply to meet baby’s needs.
Signs of good feeding: Visible swallowing (1–2 sucks per swallow), frequent feeding, 2 or more dirty nappies daily, a content baby, and weight gain between 25-35g a day.
5. A Good Latch: It’s All About How It Feels
A good latch is key for comfortable breastfeeding. Babies are naturals at finding your breast if they can touch it. Avoid forcing them to latch, as it can cause problems. Remember, their face needs to be on your breast to figure out where to go.
Top Tip: Try the “laid-back” breastfeeding position. It’s a relaxed way for your baby to find your breast and latch on naturally.
6. Breastfeeding Struggles? Try Skin-to-Skin and Hand Expressing
If breastfeeding isn’t going well, keep your baby skin-to-skin and hand express your colostrum. Hand expressing is better than pumping in the early days because it helps you get those precious drops of colostrum. Colostrum is perfect for your baby’s tiny tummy, and hand expressing helps stimulate your milk production.
Don’t forget about skin-to-skin contact! It’s a great way to bond with your baby and support breastfeeding. And if you need more help, an IBCLC can guide you through it all.
7. Don’t Wait for Breastfeeding Problems to Get Worse
If breastfeeding is tough, get help fast. An IBCLC can fix issues before they become major problems. If your baby isn’t nursing well, pump often to keep your milk supply up.
Signs you need help: Pain, cracked nipples, irregular swallowing, baby falling asleep too quickly, fewer than 2-4 dirty nappies a day, or still passing meconium after day 3-4.
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