Breastfeeding - How To Get Started Comfortably?

Though most new mothers say that they "at least want to try" to breastfeed their new arrival, they often give up very quickly because they encounter difficulties such as blocked milk ducts, baby's fussiness, or lack of milk. Nursing baby naturally often seems to be accompanied by thoughts of failing from the start. This anticipation should not come as a surprise because most new mothers have little or no support, and often no role models to turn to if questions arise. In our modern culture, breastfeeding tends to be regarded as a challenge rather than a pleasure, especially when it comes to the question of how to get started. Many expectant mothers wonder whether there is anything that could facilitate their start and the answer is yes, of course. We have collected very useful and easy tips to help you get started.

Baby's instinct

Nature has equipped newborns with instincts which are very important for the feeding process, such as baby's sucking reflex and the so-called rooting: when the infant's cheek is touched he will automatically turn his face towards the breast in order to find the nipple. In addition, it has been found that baby can instinctively regulate the flow of the milk depending on his needs.
In essence, babies are born with the knowledge of how to feed, thus making breastfeeding a two-sided responsibility.

Beginning to Breastfeed

- The first few weeks are amongst the most stressful and wonderful weeks of being a new parent. The house will probably be full of visitors and family who cannot see enough of the new arrival. However, instead of rushing around the house to keep it tidy and to offer drinks and snacks to everyone, it is important to relax, put the feet up and feed the baby, as and when needed. It is essential to focus on the baby and thus, to take time for nursing and cuddling. Don't be shy to ask others to help in and around the house!

- A feeding session can take up to 45 minutes, so finding a comfortable spot in the house is certainly important!

- The nursing position is also important. When breastfeeding becomes more established there will be more positions to try out, such as lying in bed; however, in the beginning most new mothers prefer to sit, with a pillow to support their back, and a pillow to raise the baby to a more comfortable height or to ease the pressure on the tummy after a Caesarean.

- Before breastfeeding becomes routine it is good to have someone around all the time so that you can ask for a pillow, if needed, a drink or a snack.

- When feeding baby mothers often feel very thirsty, especially in the beginning. Thus, it is a good idea to make sure that there is always a drink by your side to replenish fluids while nursing.

- By stroking baby's cheek or chin gently he will open his mouth so move the baby closer and let him latch on. When latching on, baby's mouth will clasp around the nipple and the areola (the dark area surrounding the nipple). While feeding, baby compresses the areola in order to get the milk flowing. Sucking on just the nipple won't satisfy the baby and cause the nipple to become very sore.

- If the baby is latched on properly, breastfeeding is not painful (unless you have an infection or sore nipples). By listening to the baby's suckling carefully, you will be able to hear whether he is drinking. You should hear a strong and steady suck-swallow-breath pattern. Some women may also feel the let-down of their milk.

- If you want to unlatch the baby, break the suction by putting a finger into the corner of his mouth and gently between his gums; this should help release baby's latch.

- Experts recommend to let baby feed for as long as necessary and not to force him to stop earlier. In doing so, offering one breast to "empty" (your breast can never be truly emptied, just drained) is much better for baby than offering both breasts in turn. As the more fatty hind milk comes after the more watery fore milk, you can be sure that baby will be more satisfied. However, you can always offer the other breast as a top-up.

Breastfeeding positions

As new mothers become more confident in breastfeeding their little ones, they will also discover new feeding positions. However, in the beginning most of them start off with the cradle hold as this seems to be the natural position for both mother and baby. The baby lies on his side, facing the nipple. While mother can hold him comfortably in both her arms without loosing control over what is happening, baby feels close, protected and warm. This tummy-to-tummy position seems ideal for a more relaxing experience, especially in the beginning.

The clutch hold: This position is ideal when you had a caesarean and you don't want to put too much pressure on your abdomen. It may also facilitate breastfeeding for mothers with large breasts or if you are nursing twins. You hold your baby at your side, holding his legs under your arm. It is recommended to use a pillow to bring baby up to the level of the nipple, so holding baby should not become a strain. You support baby's head with the right hand if he is feeding from the right breast (and vice versa).

The side-lying position: This position is preferred when baby needs a feed in the middle of the night or when you are having a rest. You lie on your side with baby in front of you on his back. He may either turn his head towards the nipple or lie on his side, so tummy-to-tummy. It is important that his mouth is in line with your nipple. You may find it helpful to support your breast with your hand. Putting a pillow behind baby's back to keep him from rolling back (if he lies on his side) may also be helpful.