While baby should show up in the coming days, you haven't decided yet: are you going to breastfeed or give him a bottle?
If breastfeeding seems obvious to you, the more time passes, the more you doubt your ability to offer what your child needs. What if everything did not go as you dreamed of? If you are unable to take care of your baby?
Our Top 10 Tips for Successful Breastfeeding
Do not panic. Before considering breastfeeding for the first time, all women ask themselves a thousand and one questions. How to put all the chances on your side so that your breastfeeding proceeds without addict? Here are already Top 10 Tips for Successful Breastfeeding. What feed your thinking.
TOP 1 | Show determination
No, you will not breastfeed because it is fashionable, because all your friends have been there or for fear of the eyes of others. Breastfeeding is primarily a personal choice. If you are breastfeeding for the wrong reasons, chances are that neither you nor your baby will enjoy these moments. Some women like this experience, others don't. Are you ready to live with swollen, not to say painful, breasts? Will you accept untimely spurts of milk and irritated nipples? Will you be able to offer your breast to baby whenever he needs it with the same abnegation? If you really want to, go for it. Otherwise, don't feel guilty. There are plenty of other ways to develop a unique bond with your child.
TOP 2 | Be combative
Breastfeeding is not a long, quiet river. One day it works. And the next one, worse. Because the baby is getting angry, because he is less hungry or because he has a crooked fart. In short, if breastfeeding requires a break-in time, you shouldn't think that everything will go off without a hitch. Life is so magical that it is unpredictable. And your little one too! So do not despair at the first hiccup, be combative. And if you crack, it doesn't matter. Have a good cry, catch your breath, rest, it will get better later!
TOP 3 | Follow baby's pace
As bizarre as it sounds, listen to your doctor only with one ear when talking to you about the number and duration of breastfeeds and the time between two breast feedings. During the first month, your milk is in the open bar. It is up to you to adapt to the rhythm of your child who, because he is unique, has different needs from others. Especially since limiting the duration of a feeding can have consequences on weight gain.
TOP 4 | Involve your man
Breastfeeding leaves little room for your man. However, it should involve him as much as possible to avoid that he feels aloof, or that he will eventually discourage you. During breastfeeding, however, Super Dad has its role to play: to prepare the breastfeeding cushion, to pick up the baby and place him on the breast, to make him burp, to support you when you are tired so as not to say downcast. As in the movies, the greatest heroes also sometimes play supporting roles.
TOP 5 | Watch your diet
If you have already paid attention to your diet throughout pregnancy, it should continue for a while to meet your needs and those of your baby. During breastfeeding, you need more iron, vitamin D, B2, B6, folic acid and iodine. Breastfeeding also burns a lot of energy, so you need to compensate if you want to keep pace. To help you, you can opt for Quaker Chewy Granola Bars which can provide you with the nutrients you need. Also, don't forget to drink lots of water. A gesture as simple as it is essential!
TOP 6 | Learn to spot baby's needs
It is often mistakenly thought that baby crying is the signal to latch on. On the contrary, it is often too late. At that time, baby has so much fangs that he gets angry and may not be able to latch on properly. On the other hand, when baby puts his fist in his mouth, sucks everything he finds, starting with your fingers, sticks his tongue out and fuss more than usual, that's where you have to draw.
TOP 7 | Find the right position
There are several positions in the books that can help you keep breastfeeding going well. Generally speaking, your baby should be facing you, his belly against yours. You can also use accessories such as a nursing pillow for example. If your baby has colic , consider installing him or her as vertically as possible to prevent it from swallowing too much air.
TOP 8 | Take care of your breasts
Be careful not to let your breasts get damaged. The pain can sometimes be unbearable. Opt for a well-fitting bra, avoiding the seams at the nipples to avoid injuring them. After breastfeeding, allow your breasts to air dry and do not hesitate to apply an ointment if you feel that cracks may appear.
TOP 9 | Listen to you
Yes, during the first weeks after giving birth, you will live at the rhythm of your baby. But that is no reason to forget you. On the contrary. Always keep in mind that your baby is a sponge: you are bad, he is bad. Your principles should guide you in your behavior, not force yourself beyond measure by triggering unnecessary guilt. Trust yourself, agree not to be perfect, love yourself and everything will be fine.
TOP 10 | Ask for help
If you don't feel as well as you would like to, feel free to let guilt take hold and ask for help. Never forget that all moms need support at one time or another. A little slack will never make you the bad mother you fear to be, and asking for advice has never hurt anyone. Better, talk about your difficulties and your anxieties with your pediatrician, your midwife or your family doctor will often help you find the light. It would be a shame to deprive yourself!
And you ? Did you breastfeed or would you prefer to bottle feed? Have you encountered any difficulties? What advice would you give?