5 Tips From A Lactation Consultant With 30 Years Experience

Breastfeeding is a journey filled with joy and challenges. With over 30 years of experience, a veteran lactation consultant shares her top five tips to help new mothers feel confident and supported as they navigate this important phase of motherhood.

Key Takeaways

• A proper latch is key to making breastfeeding comfortable and effective.
• Engaging in skin-to-skin contact with your baby fosters bonding and supports milk production.
• Try different breastfeeding positions to find the best fit for both you and your baby.
• Pay attention to your baby's hunger signs to feed them before they get upset.
• Keep an eye on your milk supply and adjust as needed to ensure your baby is getting enough.

1. Proper Latch Techniques

A proper latch is essential for effective breastfeeding. A good latch ensures that the baby receives enough milk while minimizing discomfort for the mother. Here are some important points to consider:

1. Positioning: The baby should be positioned close to the mother. Their cheeks and chin should touch the breast, and their lips should not be visible.
2. Latch Depth: The baby must latch onto the entire breast, not just the nipple. The bottom of the areola should be in the baby's mouth, allowing the nipple to reach the back of their mouth where the palate is soft.
3. Comfort: A proper latch should feel comfortable. If there is pain, the latch may need adjustment.
4. Encouraging a Wide Mouth: If the baby struggles to latch, gently press the nipple against their upper lip to encourage them to open their mouth wide.
5. Using a Breast Pump: For mothers with larger or inverted nipples, a breast pump can help draw out the nipple, making it easier for the baby to latch.
6. Nipple Shields: In some cases, a nipple shield may assist with latching, especially for mothers with flat or inverted nipples. This should be done under the guidance of a lactation consultant.
7. Manual Techniques: If the breasts are swollen, techniques like pressing around the areola or rolling the nipple between fingers can help.
8. Check for Lip- or Tongue-Tie: If the baby has difficulty latching, it may be due to a lip- or tongue-tie. Consulting a pediatrician or lactation consultant is advisable.

Both mother and baby require time to learn and master the skill of breastfeeding. Patience and practice are vital for success. Remember, creating a perfect breastfeeding latch involves both technique and comfort, ensuring a positive experience for both mother and child.

2. Skin-To-Skin Contact

Skin-to-skin contact is an essential practice for new mothers and their newborns. This method involves placing the baby directly on the mother's chest, promoting both bonding and breastfeeding success. Spending the first 1-2 hours after delivery in this direct contact allows the baby and mother to become familiar with each other. During this time, the baby often shows signs of readiness to feed, making it an ideal moment to initiate breastfeeding.

Benefits of Skin-To-Skin Contact

• Increases Milk Production: This practice raises the mother's prolactin levels, which naturally boosts milk supply.
• Facilitates Milk Let-Down: Skin-to-skin contact enhances oxytocin levels, aiding in the milk let-down reflex.
• Regulates Baby's Vital Signs: It helps stabilize the baby's body temperature, heart rate, and breathing, providing comfort and security.
• Reduces Stress: This contact lowers stress levels for both mother and baby, fostering a calm environment.

Recommendations for Continued Practice

• Frequency: It is beneficial to continue skin-to-skin contact as often as possible in the days and weeks following delivery.
• For Premature or Ill Newborns: Mothers of premature or ill babies should consider pumping or expressing milk immediately after skin-to-skin contact to enhance milk supply.

In conclusion, skin-to-skin contact is not only vital immediately after birth but should be integrated into daily routines to support breastfeeding and strengthen the mother-baby bond.

3. Breastfeeding Positions

Finding the right breastfeeding position is essential for both comfort and effective feeding. Different positions can significantly impact the breastfeeding experience for both mother and baby. Here are some commonly recommended positions:

1. Cradle Hold

In this traditional position, the baby lies on their side with their head resting in the crook of the mother's arm. The mother supports the baby's back and bottom with her arm and hand.

2. Cross-Cradle Hold

Similar to the cradle hold, but the mother uses the opposite arm to support the baby. This position allows for better control over the baby's head, making it easier to achieve a good latch.

3. Football Hold

In this position, the baby is tucked under the mother's arm like a football, with their body along the mother's side. This hold is particularly beneficial for mothers who have had a C-section, as it avoids pressure on the abdomen.

4. Side-Lying Position

Both the mother and baby lie on their sides facing each other. This position is ideal for nighttime feedings, allowing the mother to rest while feeding.

5. Laid-Back Position

The mother reclines slightly, and the baby lies on their stomach on the mother's chest. This natural position can be very comfortable and promotes a good latch.

Experimenting with these various positions can help identify the most comfortable and effective one for both mother and baby. It is important to remember that the best position is the one that works best for both individuals. For added comfort during this time, mothers may consider using period underwear for women to manage any postpartum bleeding.

4. Recognizing Hunger Cues

Recognizing a baby's hunger cues is essential for effective breastfeeding. Babies communicate their needs in various ways, and understanding these signals can help ensure they are fed promptly.

Common signs that indicate a baby is hungry include:

• Rooting: The baby turns their head toward the breast or bottle, often accompanied by opening and closing their mouth.
• Sucking: Babies may suck on their hands or fingers, signaling their desire to eat.
• Increased Alertness: A hungry baby may appear more active and alert.

It is important to note that crying is usually a late sign of hunger. Parents should aim to respond to earlier cues to prevent the baby from becoming overly upset. By paying attention to these signals, caregivers can better meet their baby's needs, leading to a smoother breastfeeding experience.

Hunger Cue	Description
Rooting	Turning head toward the breast or bottle
Sucking	Sucking on hands or fingers
Increased Alertness	Appearing more active and alert
Crying	A late sign of hunger, indicating immediate need

In summary, understanding and recognizing these hunger cues can significantly enhance the breastfeeding experience for both mother and baby. By responding promptly to these signals, parents can foster a nurturing environment that supports healthy feeding practices.

5. Managing Milk Supply

Managing milk supply is essential for successful breastfeeding. Frequent breastfeeding or pumping is key to maintaining and increasing milk production. The more milk that is removed from the breasts, the more milk the body will produce.

Avoiding Factors That Reduce Supply

Certain factors can negatively impact milk supply. These include:

• Smoking
• Caffeine
• Birth control pills and injections
• Decongestants and antihistamines
• Severe weight loss diets
• Excessive amounts of mints, parsley, and sage

Effective Pumping Strategies

Pumping can be an effective way to manage milk supply, especially for mothers returning to work. Here are some tips:

1. Pump often, not longer: Short, frequent pumping sessions are more effective than longer, infrequent ones.
2. Use a high-quality breast pump: A good pump can significantly improve milk output.
3. Try power pumping: This involves pumping for 10 minutes every hour to boost supply.

Monitoring Baby's Intake

To ensure the baby is getting enough milk, monitor their weight and diaper output. A baby who is gaining weight and has regular wet and dirty diapers is likely getting enough milk. If there are concerns, consulting a lactation consultant is advisable.

Skin-to-Skin Contact

Spending time skin-to-skin with the baby can help increase milk production. This contact raises prolactin levels, which boosts milk supply.

Eating Galactagogues

Certain foods, known as galactagogues, can help increase milk supply. These include oatmeal, barley, flaxseed, and some herbs like fenugreek and alfalfa. There are also pre-made lactation teas, cookies, and supplements that contain these ingredients.

Conclusion

Breastfeeding can be both a rewarding and tough journey for many mothers. The advice from a lactation consultant with 30 years of experience emphasizes the need for preparation, support, and patience. By following these tips, new mothers can face the challenges of breastfeeding with more confidence and success. It’s important to remember that every breastfeeding experience is different, and asking for help when needed shows strength, not weakness. Enjoy the process, treasure the special moments with your baby, and know that with the right support, you can reach your breastfeeding goals.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I tell if my baby is latching correctly?

A good latch should feel comfortable. Your baby’s mouth should cover more of the area below the nipple than above. You should see their lips flared out like a fish.

How often should I feed my newborn?

Newborns usually need to eat every 2 to 3 hours, which means about 8 to 12 times in a day. Pay attention to your baby’s hunger signs to know when to feed.

What are some signs that my baby is hungry?

Look for early signs like smacking their lips, making sucking movements, or rooting. Crying is a late sign of hunger, so try to feed before they get upset.

What can I do if I'm struggling with milk supply?

Try to breastfeed or pump frequently. The more milk you remove, the more your body will make. Also, avoid things like smoking and certain medications that can lower supply.

Is skin-to-skin contact important?

Yes! Skin-to-skin contact helps with bonding and can boost your milk supply. It’s great for both you and your baby.

What should I eat to help with milk production?

Eating healthy foods, staying hydrated, and including foods known as galactagogues, like oatmeal and flaxseed, can help increase your milk supply.