We’ve collected some of our favorite tips and tricks to help make breastfeeding a little easier!
- Stay hydrated
While it’s always important to make sure you are providing your body with water throughout the day, it’s especially so while you are breastfeeding. Breastmilk is composed mostly of water so nursing moms are encouraged to remain hydrated. Set reminders on your phone, keep a bottle of water near where you breastfeed, and help yourself to fruits and vegetables with a high water content.
- Eat well
Besides extra water breastfeeding mamas need extra calories as well. Consuming a well-balanced diet, ensuring you are getting enough calcium, and continuing to take your vitamins provides your body with the fuel it needs to function in top form.
- Find a quiet spot to nurse
Baby might be stimulated by extraneous noise and activity making nursing more difficult. Find a comfortable spot away from the action so they can focus on eating and so you can relax.
- Practice self-care
You’re busy mama and you’re a pro at putting everyone else’s needs before your own but don’t neglect yourself! You might be feeling a little “touched out” or that your body is not your own anymore. It’s okay to pass your little one off to another set of caring arms and take some time for yourself. Enjoy a long bubble bath, a walk by yourself, or whatever you need to rejuvenate.
- Ask for help
Breastfeeding isn’t always easy but fortunately there are many avenues to turn to if you have questions or are struggling. Your pediatrician and obstetrician are valuable resources for information. You might also consider joining a local La Leche League, making an appointment with a lactation consultant, or utilizing breast feeding support groups for advice and encouragement.
- There’s an app for that
In today’s technological world there’s no shortage of apps for just about anything it seems. Besides being able to track feedings and pumping, many breastfeeding apps offer a wide range of information and resources, and can connect you with a community of other breastfeeding mothers.
As always, we promise to be here for you as well! Whether you’re looking for nutritional support for breastfeeding, skin care while you nurse, or your milk supply needs a boost, Promise Prenatal has what you need so you can get back to what matters most.
By Shannon Sprayberry, Auburn, WA- Women's Health Blogger
Resources:
“Breastfeeding: Hints to Help You Get Off to a Good Start”. American Academy of Family Physicians. December 18, 2019. Retrieved August 27, 2020. https://familydoctor.org/breastfeeding-hints-to-help-you-get-off-to-a-good-start/.
“Breastfeeding Tips for New Moms”. Healthy Women. January 21, 2015. Retrieved August 27, 2020. https://www.healthywomen.org/content/article/breastfeeding-tips-new-moms.