Many new mums read books and articles on the best way to feed their new baby. Most people would agree that breastfeeding in the early days; while it may be a challenge to the new mum it is the most beneficial way to feed their new baby.
The health benefits of breast feeding are well known to the medical community world wide. Breast milk has properties that allow the babe immunities to illnesses that plague their formula fed counterparts such as ear infections and bouts of the common cold. The bonding between mum and babe that happens during a breastfeeding relationship coupled with the health benefits is why so many mums are choosing to feed their baby with their own breast milk.
In the first few days, it may take a bit of practice for the new mum and baby to find what works for them. It is always suggested that mums use a breastfeeding pillow for comfort and to help keep the babe level to the breast. Many new babies need time to learn to latch on and a breastfeeding pillow will help mum and babe adjust to their new relationship.
Mums should choose the breastfeeding pillow that is most comfortable for both her and baby; there is a link to a site below that shows very good ones that were used by my partner.While mum and babe are getting to know each other; mums should breast feed whenever baby is showing signs of hunger. Rooting or tuning their head from side to side is usually the first sign of hunger in the early days. Mums shouldn't worry about how much breast milk they are producing, the first few days the baby gets all the nutrition they need from the colostrum produced during pregnancy and more mature milk will take its place a few days after birth. Healthcare providers should relay information on breast care and red flags to watch out for.
Baby feeding time should start with a diaper change to wake up the sleepy babe and a few moments of snuggle time. Mums should have their breastfeeding pillow in a comfortable position and ask their partners to rub their shoulders to promote let down. It is recommended that as baby feeding begins mum has a glass of water at her side along with a few snacks. Mums who are breast feeding get dehydrated very easily and need to keep their calorie intake high to keep up with demands of a growing babe. Breastfeeding mums lose weight faster than non breastfeeding mums, but the new mum should take the time to let her body heal before starting a new diet or weight loss program.
If mum and baby are co-sleeping there are many positions in which the little one can lay safely and nurse. Breast feeding can be done anytime and anywhere including in the bed. There are quite a few safe co-sleepers available on the market today and many mums use their breastfeeding pillows to make sure baby is safe in bed with mum.
New mums should make sure that baby feeding includes older children. Breast Feeding can be done while having a family movie or game night and older children should be encouraged to help out the the new babe.