Breastfeeding Support

Dear MrsM-I tried to breastfeed my first daughter, I was under the impression
that she would just latch and we would do our thing. That wasn’t the case
and I gave up really quick. My family wasn’t very supportive because
they wanted to feed her also so they just didn’t say much. Now that I’m
pregnant again I really want to try harder this time and I was
wondering what kind of support is out there to keep my motivation going
strong. Also how long after I start can I pump and give the rest of the family
there feeding time?

First, try not to get too discouraged. You are certainly not alone-there are many women who have difficulty breastfeeding and then decide to switch to formula, and that is perfectly okay. The most important thing is that your baby is eating enough.

That being said, breast milk is very healthy for babies and breastfeeding, whenever it is possible, is the most natural and healthy choice for babies. It can be difficult to give breastfeeding another try after a negative experience, but it is very commendable that you are willing to try again.

Here are some things I suggest to help breastfeeding go as smoothly as possible:

*Read up on breastfeeding techniques. Your OB/Gyn should have pamphlets (or be able to direct you to pamphlets) about breastfeeding. Also-bringing up breastfeeding with your OB is a good idea because they will often have medical advice for you that can be very helpful, as well as supportive.

*Offer your baby your breast as soon as possible after they are born. They don’t have to latch on immediately, some babies may not even try, but snuggling them next to your breast is good for bonding as well as introducing them to the idea that “this is where the food comes from”. A lot of babies, however, will smell the breastmilk (or colostrum) and immediately try to nurse. Go ahead and let them, adjusting them if necissary to make sure they are latched correctly.

*Whenever possible, room in with your baby at the hospital and nurse on demand. This is another great way to increase your bond and is also beneficial when beginning to breastfeed.

*If/When your baby goes to the nursery instruct the nursery staff to not give your baby a bottle, a binkie, formula, or sugar water unless they get direct orders from your Pediatrician. If a supplement is required for some reason, ask if an alternative to a bottle can be used, such as a lactation aid, finger feeding or cup…and don’t take no for an answer; unless of course that no comes from your Pediatrician for some reason.

*Speaking of Binkies-Don’t use them. At least, try to avoid them for at least 3-4 weeks after your baby is born or until your baby is effectively and routinely breast feeding…whichever comes first. This will help avoid “nipple confusion” and will help reinforce the idea with your baby that the breast is the best place to nuzzle.

*Talk to the Lactation Consultant before you leave the hospital. They can give you breastfeeding tips and techniques, and make sure that you are breastfeeding correctly before you leave. They’re also a great resource as far as what is available in your community in the way of breastfeeding/new mother’s support groups. They will also set a follow up appointment for a couple weeks later to make sure they can check on your milk production and answer any questions you discover once you get home.

As far as your family goes, I would tell them how important breast feeding is to you and request their support. If they aren’t supportive, then at the very least I would enforce their compliance with your wish to breastfeed. It is not a good idea for them to give your baby a bottle (or a binkie) until your baby is 3-4 weeks old and breastfeeding successfully. There are a lot of other things they can do to bond with the baby such as holding, rocking, playing…oh, and make sure to let them know they are welcome to change as many diapers as they’d like!

Good luck to you and your baby and remember-just keep trying!