Welcoming a child into the world is a journey that by no means stops after delivery. One of the first lessons many new moms must learn is how to breastfeed their new baby. Breastfeeding can come with a learning curve, and it’s not always the same with each baby. Some may experience latching issues, while others may latch easily. Some mothers have an ample supply, while others struggle to produce.
If you’re looking for breastfeeding advice to support you on your journey, the Natural Healthy Concepts team has pulled together some resources you may find helpful.
5 Breastfeeding Tips Every New Mom Needs
If you’re a new mom trying to solve a breastfeeding challenge, or you’re preparing for a new baby, keep this list handy!
Get Help Before you Need it
Don’t wait until the middle of the night when you and your baby are both frustrated to seek out help. Find a local lactation consultant and some friends who have breastfeeding experience. Lining up a support team can keep you going when you’re hitting bumps in the road.
Set Yourself up for Success
Brainstorm where in your home you will most commonly breastfeed, especially at night – think of it as a breastfeeding station. It doesn’t always have to be the same spot, but set up a place with a table for water, a breastfeeding pillow, a phone charger, whatever you may need to ensure comfort during those long, new baby nursing sessions.
Nurse Early
Most hospitals are very pro-breastfeeding and have a lactation consultant on hand to help you ensure a comfortable latch and solve other nursing problems. Be sure to nurse your baby as soon as possible, preferably within an hour of delivery. If you have questions, ask them while you have the experts at the hospital on hand. The more knowledgeable and comfortable you can be going home, the more likely you are to meet your breastfeeding goals.
Have an Educated Partner
Don’t hoard your breastfeeding wisdom, encourage the baby’s father, or your partner to educate themselves as well. You’ll need someone on your team in the trenches that can help you try different breastfeeding positions and support you when you’re frustrated.
Stock up Before the Hospital
Nursing successfully comes with a surprising amount of accessories like nipple cream, milk bags, a breast pump, and a nursing pillow. Be sure to have these things on hand before delivery, this means less last minute trips to the store to stock up – better yet be sure they’re on your shower registry.
Supplements to Support Breastfeeding
Natural Healthy Concepts has products to support nursing mothers. Here are a few breastfeeding supplements we recommend.
Lactivate Advanced Lactation Support from Zahler
Lactivate Advanced Lactation Support from Zahler contains a formula designed to support healthy lactation. With nutrients and herbs like red raspberry, stinging nettle, folate/folic acid, and more, Lactivate can help generate a rich milk supply and is also available in a liquid form – Lactivate Lactation Support Liquid.
More Milk Plus from Motherlove
More Milk Plus from Motherlove is an herbal supplement created to support the health of nursing mothers by promoting healthy lactation. This supplement contains fenugreek, fennel, blessed thistle, and nettle leaf, which may all support healthy milk production.
Breastfeeding is a rewarding experience, full of amazing benefits for mother and baby. We would love to read your breastfeeding advice in the comments section below.
