by Helium01

Created on: February 01, 2009   Last Updated: May 30, 2009

Tips for a first time breast feeder

As a new mom, you may have decided early on that you were going to breastfeed your baby. Good for you! However, most moms these days have the best intentions, but statistics show that nearly half of all mothers eventually give up trying to breastfeed. Although you may be told that breastfeeding is natural and should be easy, it is a learning experience for both you and your baby. The best advice is to arm yourself with knowledge so that you can be strong when things get difficult. Below are some tips about breastfeeding as a new mom.

Supply and Demand

Breastfeeding is an art of supply and demand. There will be times that you believe your baby is not getting enough milk because she seems to be nursing constantly. She knows what she is doing. The baby's constant suckling stimulates your body to produce more milk. This will generally happen around the time of a growth spurt, which typically occur at 3, 6, and 9 months of age.

Colostrum

Colostrum is the first milk that you will produce for your baby. It is filled with protein, fat and antibodies that your baby needs when he is first born. By nursing your newborn and ensuring that he receives colostrums, you are giving him a great start in life.

Proper Latch

One of the keys to successful breastfeeding is getting your baby to latch correctly. This is a work in progress and may take you several months to accomplish. In a nutshell, you want your baby to take as much of your areola into his mouth as possible, so that your nipple is near the back of his mouth. If he only takes your nipple into his mouth, he won't be able to compress the milk glands, and you will end up sore.

Overactive Letdown

Overactive letdown refers to a quickly and forceful letdown of the milk when the baby begins to suck. Sometimes this letdown can be so strong that the baby chokes and gasps and cannot keep up. If you think that you are having this problem, remove the baby after letdown starts and put her back on the breast once the milk has slowed somewhat.

Drunken Sailor

You will know that your little one has had her fill when you see the "drunken sailor". Her eyes will close, her body will relax, and her lips may have a slight puckered look. Always offer the second breast, but if your baby refuses, simply start with that breast at the next feeding.

Engorgement

When your milk first comes in, you may be dealing with a case of breast engorgement. Your breasts may become full and uncomfortable. At this stage, the best way

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