by Jane Hendry

Created on: December 07, 2009

Basic Tips for Breastfeeding

New mothers are often nervous and, in some cases, even terrified of breast feeding and this can be the start of ongoing problems when it comes to feeding time. Breast feeding is the most natural way to feed a baby, as it is the way we are designed, and so, though it often is, it should not be an ordeal for any mother given the right support and advice. It is, however, important to take advice from well meaning friends and family with a pinch of salt as breastfeeding is a unique experience for every mother.

Relax

Many new Moms become very stressed about breast feeding due to the huge hype there is about it. Though it is natural, it does not come naturally to all mothers, and the most important thing you can do is allow yourself to relax. Baby can feel that you are tense and this will make her tense too. If you are both feeling that tension the result will be poor latching, inefficient feeding and indigestion for baby, and a lot more stress for Mom. So, whatever helps you to relax, make sure you have it to hand at feeding times. A comfortable chair, with your feet up, a nice refreshing fruit smoothie or some peaceful background music, and a lot of love and support from your partner, and you will find feeding time becomes a time to bond and enjoy each other.

Trust your instincts

Since breast feeding is the natural way to provide the best nutrients for baby it is important to let nature take its course. Don't spend too much energy on timing feeds or checking the time-lapse between feeds. Breast milk flows at different rates depending on, among other things, your state of relaxation, the room temperature and how much liquid you have had to drink. Baby will tell you when she has had enough and when she needs more. It is better to learn to tell the difference in baby's cries, so that you know when she is hungry or when she needs a nappy change instead. If there seems to be no difference offer her a feed, if she is hungry she will take it.

Help baby learn to latch

Some mothers experience a great deal of pain each time baby latches on and, while this is normal for the first week to ten days while your breast becomes accustomed to the suckling, it should ease up. If you are still in pain while your baby feeds try helping her to latch on more effectively. This will also help her to feed more efficiently leaving her more satisfied and you less stressed. You should hold baby's tummy to your tummy with her chin in line with your nipple, cup your breast and bring it to her mouth. You can then tickle her mouth with your nipple to get her to open, so you can latch her on. Baby's mouth should cover most of the areola, which is the circular dark area around the nipple, in order for her to latch properly.

Ask the experts

If you find that you still battle to breastfeed and are determined to continue, why not seek the help of an expert. There are many moms who have breastfed their babies and now offer advice as lactation consultants or breastfeeding counsellors. These women will be able to help you understand and overcome myriad problems associated with breastfeeding and can be contacted through any Midwife or organisations such as La Leche League, NCT and The Breastfeeding Network.

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