Breastfeeding Tips for New Moms

Essential Tips:

• Nurse as soon as possible after birth.

• Establish a proper latch.

• Avoid artificial nipples.

• Do not restrict the length or frequency of breastfeeding.

• Sleep when your baby sleeps.

• Wear your baby in a sling for easy nursing.

• Stay hydrated by drinking a glass of water every time you nurse.

• Avoid tight clothing and bras in the first few weeks to allow sore nipples to heal.

• Use pillows for support while breastfeeding.

• If you experience pain, consult a doctor or Lactation Consultant.

Breastfeeding Longer = More Benefits!

For Baby:

• More antibodies to fight colds, diarrhea, ear infections, and RSV.

• Reduced risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and obesity.

• Protection against cancer.

For Mom:

• Reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancer.

• Prevents osteoporosis and hip fractures.

Benefits for Breastfed Babies

Developmental Benefits:

• Higher IQ development.

• Enhanced brain and nervous system growth.

Emotional Benefits:

• Strengthens emotional development.

• Promotes a warm bond with mom.

Health Benefits:

• Protection against various illnesses such as stomach upsets, ear infections, respiratory diseases, allergies, asthma, and more.

• Reduces the risk of SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) and childhood diabetes.

• Increases bone density and reduces heart disease risk later in life.

Nutritional Benefits:

• Most complete and optimal mix of nutrients and antibodies.

• Adapts to meet the baby's changing nutritional needs.

Benefits for Breastfeeding Mothers

Cost Benefits:

• Breastmilk is free, reducing or eliminating formula costs.

• Fewer sick days for baby, leading to lower healthcare costs and fewer work absences.

Emotional Benefits:

• Physical closeness fosters emotional connection.

• Feeling capable and successful in nurturing your baby

Health Benefits:

• Reduces risks of osteoporosis, hip fractures, breast, ovarian, and endometrial cancers, as well as anemia.

• Helps mom’s body return to pre-pregnancy state faster.

Learning How to Breastfeed Takes Time and Patience

• Inform your doctor and nurses that you intend to exclusively breastfeed and ask for assistance.

• Expect newborns to feed every 1.5 to 3 hours around the clock.

• Combining formula and breastfeeding in the first month can reduce milk production.

• Pain during breastfeeding could indicate improper latch or positioning; seek help from a lactation consultant.

• If returning to work, plan ahead by learning to pump and storing breastmilk.

Dads Play an Important Role

Fathers can support breastfeeding moms in many ways:

• Assist with housework and cooking.

• Limit and manage visitors so mom can rest.

• Bond with the baby through skin-to-skin contact, bathing, dressing, and diaper changes.

• Offer encouragement and emotional support.

• Avoid introducing formula in the first few weeks to support mom’s milk production.

Grandparents Play an Important Role

Grandparents can provide crucial support by:

• Helping with housework and meals to give mom more time with baby.

• Encouraging mom to get plenty of rest and fluids.

• Assisting with baby care, such as bathing and diaper changes.

• Supporting breastfeeding as the best choice for baby’s health.

• Recognizing the health benefits for mom, including faster recovery and reduced cancer risks.

Breastfeeding provides lifelong benefits for both mom and baby. Support, patience, and knowledge can make the experience smoother and more enjoyable for the entire family!