"I heard it hurts." "It's too much of a hassle." "My baby won't take my breast, so I stopped."
These are common themes heard in the WIC clinic on a daily basis....but guess what? All are small problems that can be talked through and handled right in your WIC clinic! We understand you can't always drop everything and come in to the clinic to talk to us, so today we're going to touch on a few tips that will hopefully ease any stress or questions you may have about breastfeeding. So let's get started!
1. One of the most important things we tell all our pregnant moms is to introduce the breast within the first hour of birth. Tell your doctors and nurses before delivering that you plan on breastfeeding and would like to have the baby on your chest within the first hour of birth. Having that early skin-to-skin contact with you baby is very important. The milk your body produces in the beginning is called colostrum and is rich in protein and can help fight infections.
2. No schedule needed; feed your baby whenever they are hungry. Look for hunger cues and keep your baby close to you. Having your baby close by will help you learn when your baby is hungry. Your baby may breastfeed anywhere from 8-12 times a day.
3. Try different positions and find one that is comfortable for you and the baby. Proper positioning will decrease nipple soreness and make the overall experience an enjoyable for the both of you.
4. When possible ask family members for help with chores and other small things in the beginning so that you can focus on feeding your baby.
5. Avoid using bottles or pacifiers during the first month. Early use can actually make it harder for your baby to learn how to latch on. Unless there is a medical need, stay away from artificial nipples within the first 4 weeks.
6. Make time for yourself, this includes resting, drinking enough fluids and eating throughout the day.
7. Call your WIC breastfeeding peer counselor whenever help is needed. We are here for you!
Remember breastfeeding takes time, patience and practice. Breast milk is the best milk you can supply for your baby!
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Megan Mauer, Nutritionist
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