Feeding is truly a special time for babies and parents to bond — and if you breastfeed, it is an experience that’s probably unlike anything you’ve ever done before! While nursing can sometimes be challenging, the obstacles you might encounter can often be overcome with a little support, the right equipment, and a healthy dose of knowledge.
We absolutely love this first hand feature of @watchthewatralsgrow and here are some of our top nursing tips for first-timers:
Educate yourself about newborns and nutrition.
Becoming a parent for the first time can be overwhelming. Set yourself up for a more confident start by reading up about nursing a newborn before your due date. You’ll be surprised how quickly it will come in handy to have some idea of what to expect, from recognizing signs of hunger to knowing how to increase milk supply.
Set up a nursing basket.
Feeding your baby is a precious experience… and it also consumes a lot of your day! It’s nice to have a dedicated spot where you and baby can both get comfortable, and where you can sit down to nurse knowing you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips. Cassie Williams of Top Notch Newborn Care has a great list of ideas for items to keep in your nursing basket, from snacks to supplements to cell phone chargers.
Pay attention to your posture.
Nursing shouldn’t strain your back! If feedings are becoming a literal pain in the neck, this Instagram video from Dr. Sara Reardon will show you how to use pillows to adjust your position and help support both you and your baby. After you wean, you can get many more years of use out of your nursing cushion with our stylish, versatile Perch Pillow!
Breastfeeding might not come naturally…
…and that’s not unusual! Fortunately, there are a lot of great resources out there for parents who are new to nursing. Check out Instagram educators like lactation consultant and nurse @larissathemamacoach, postpartum doula @topnotchnewborncare, and empowered breastfeeding advocate @thelittlemilkbar_ for more newborn feeding tips and advice.
Ask for help if you need it.
We have heard that there are magical unicorn babies who latch perfectly from birth and never encounter any problems, but for many parents, breastfeeding for the first time can come with the occasional challenge. Don’t hesitate to ask for help! KellyMom.com is a great place to start, whether you’re looking for general advice, a certified lactation consultant, or a local breastfeeding support group.
