Tips and Techniques in Breastfeeding

August 29th, 2010 · No Comments

?Tips and Techniques in Breastfeeding

You are pregnant, or maybe your baby has already been born, and you have decided that you want to breastfeed. Maybe you do not know where to start, or maybe it has not been the smooth ride that you had hoped for. Do not worry – contrary to popular belief breastfeeding does not come smoothly to all women. For every one whose baby latched on and has been going strong ever since there is another one who has suffered the agony of cracked nipples, the pain of engorgement, and the worries that their baby is not getting enough to eat. Here are some tips and techniques to get you started.

First, inform yourself. Read books on nursing or attend a breastfeeding class. Your hospital will have connections to lactation consultants, or you can contact La Leche League for support groups in your area. Even just talking with other moms who have gone through breastfeeding can give you some tips and pointers.

Next, prepare a space. Once you become a pro at breastfeeding you will be able to just lift your shirt up and pop baby on just about anywhere. But while the two of you are getting acquainted with the idea, you are going to want somewhere that you are comfortable. Keep distractions to a minimum – the door and the phone can wait. A comfortable place to sit is a must, and some moms will invest in a glider or rocker for the nursery, while others are just as comfortable sitting on their bed or on the couch. You might want to get a support pillow to place under baby to give your arms a break. Have something to drink and maybe a snack nearby. Once you are feeling confident in your technique, you might also want to keep the remote or a book handy so that you have something to do while baby is lunching. But do not forget that this is a special bonding time for you and baby, so take the time to talk or sing to him or just to cuddle and look at each other.

Next, check baby’s latch. Baby’s mouth should not clamp onto just your nipple but actually the entire areola. To do this, tickle baby’s lips with your nipple until he opens wide. Do not try to force the breast into baby’s mouth – let him take it as he is ready. Baby’s head should be in direct line with is body – not turned at angle. Make sure that baby is swallowing – there should be a steady, strong motion visible in baby’s cheek and jaw, and you might even be able to hear baby swallowing.

Experiment with different holds with the baby until you find something that the two of you are comfortable with. The cross over hold involves holding baby with the arm that is opposite of the breast you are using for that feeding. The hand closest to the breast is used to help support the breast. The football hold involves holding baby like a football – the arm on the same side of the body supports him as the breast is nursing from, with his feet tucked under mom’s arm towards her back. This hold is particular useful for moms that are nursing multiples. The cradle hold also supports baby with the arm on the same side of body, but this time baby’s feet are across mom’s front and he is “cradled” by her arm. And for those who wish to nurse while lying down, as during nighttime feedings, the side-lying hold is best. Both of you lie on your sides with tummy together and mom supports baby with her arms to prevent him from rolling away.

Lastly, prepare for some challenges. Hopefully your baby will be one that takes naturally and easily to breast, but just because he does not is not a sign that either of you are doing something wrong. Enlist in the help with a lactation nurse if you need it. There are products out there to help with everything from cracked to inverted nipples. Ointments can help prevent soreness and infection, while shields can help establish a good latch. If you experience problems the first time, try, try again! It will not take long and you and your baby will be experiencing that beautiful bond of breastfeeding.

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