Breastfeeding: Natural, but not always easy
Posted: August 22, 2018
Breastfeeding can be an intimidating topic for first-time mothers, and because every child is a little different, even experienced mothers can find themselves struggling through the first few weeks. [caption id="attachment_12645" align="alignright" width="450"]
Breastfeeding isn't always easy. Don't be afraid to ask for help.[/caption]
"Breastfeeding isn't always easy initially," said Jessie Richardson, lactation consultant at Marshfield Clinic Health System. "Moms and babies have pretty strong instincts, but getting the two of them to come together can take a bit of practice."
Educate yourself
While pregnant, Richardson suggests educating yourself about breastfeeding. Start to think about your goals, questions and options you have about feeding before your child is born. "I would highly encourage attending a breastfeeding class or childbirth education class because that will give you the basics," she said. "You learn about hospital practices, normal newborn behaviors and what to expect, what is recommended and how to get through some of the tougher times." Lactation Services at Marshfield Medical Center have classes offered monthly, and suggest you take one during the last three months of pregnancy with your support person. After delivery, lactation consultants see you in the hospital and are available for outpatient visits after hospital discharge. You also can call the Breastfeeding Warmline at 800-991-8412 anytime to ask a question. Richardson said no question is too ridiculous. "Trust me, we have probably heard it," she said. Sometimes support you need isn't just physical, but emotional as well. Breastfeeding support groups also are available to celebrate the ups and downs of being a mom. Your provider, lactation consultant, nurses and support system are here for you.Ask for help," Richardson said. "You aren't expected to know everything."She recommends talking with your family, support person, employer and care provider to discuss your goals after delivery to help breastfeeding be successful.
Be realistic
If you go into breastfeeding thinking it is simple and it's not, you may find yourself frustrated. Richardson said most mothers say the first few weeks can sometimes be a struggle. It can take time for babies to learn how to breastfeed, but given time, breastfeeding can be easy and natural.The first few weeks you will feel like all you are doing is breastfeeding," she said. "It's time consuming and it may be challenging, but as the baby learns and is more efficient, and Mom is able to trust herself and be more confident, then breastfeeding progresses and gets easier."A healthy full-term baby nurses as often and as long as they want. Because you can't see the volume going in, Richardson said you have to trust that your baby naturally and instinctually knows how much they need. Premature babies often times require more scheduled feedings to get them to a healthy weight because they may not always have energy to feed consistently well.