As the baby grows and up to a few years, it remains a nutritious part of their diet alongside other foods that you introduce. However, the breastfeeding experience is unique with every mother, and specific techniques can help you comfortably pass through the challenges.

BREASTFEEDING BENEFITS

Infant feeding choices are crucial for the health of a mother and her baby. At C-Section Recovery Center, we strive to educate new moms and support their families through postpartum and individual feeding preferences.

Breastfeeding is not appropriate for women with medical problems such as tuberculosis, HIV, or ones taking prescription medicines incompatible with breastfeeding.

But if breastfeeding is what you resonate with, know its benefits because only if you’re prescribed otherwise breastfeeding doesn’t have any side effects.

FOR BABIES: Breast milk is the first source of nourishment for a newborn. The milk changes as the babies grow – so from colostrum (liquid gold) to the transitional (resembling milk mixed with orange juice) and mature milk (thin and white), it provides your baby with whatever they may require at every stage of their development. The milk contains essential vitamins, minerals, fats, carbs, and proteins that the baby needs for healthy growth. It increases the baby’s immunity, provides wholesome nourishment, serves their emotional needs, necessitates lesser orthodontic care, and promotes an ideal development of the nervous system. Also, since the milk changes its composition throughout every feeding, formula milk may not be considered healthy by many.

FOR MOMS: The first and foremost benefit to moms is their savings from not investing in the formula. Although formula milk isn’t necessarily bad and more women today are open to bottle feeding. Still, we at C-Section Recovery Center always recommend new moms to breastfeed their babies if they can. Apart from this, breastfeeding aids your attachment with the infant. You can feed the baby without having to stress about any products. It helps accelerate your recovery. You’re able to lose weight and avert the risk of contracting any health problems like diabetes, heart diseases, cancer, etc.

However, it’s important to note that breastfeeding doesn’t often happen on its own despite all research and recommendations. It’s a profound practice like any motor skill that necessitates trial and error. Besides, it requires not just one but two unique bodies to work in harmony.

For any additional queries concerning your breastfeeding decision, consult a C-Section Recovery Center expert.

DO ALL WOMEN BREASTFEED?

Breastfeeding is a personal choice, and almost all women can do so. With the right support, you can breastfeed even if your nipples are small, turned inwards, or you’ve had a C-Section delivery.

However, some women choose not to or cannot breastfeed. For instance, women who do not produce enough breast milk due to previous surgeries or medical complications do not breastfeed and choose safer alternatives after discussing with their doctor.

Besides, breastfeeding comes with its own set of challenges, whether during the initial stages or weeks after successful nursing. If you reach out for support right away, you can overcome challenges easily.

BREASTFEEDING TIPS

To help your breastfeeding experience go as smoothly as possible, here are a few tips and tricks we list for your convenience:

• The best way to get started is to attend breastfeeding classes or support centers for one-on-one sessions.
• Inform your healthcare providers that you plan to breastfeed, and they can help you put it to action.
• Breastfeed right after your delivery, i.e., within the first few hours, even if it’s a C-section.
• Equip yourself with appropriate nursing supplies such as nursing pillows, nursing bra, breast pads, bottles, storage bags, and more.
• Consider different ways and techniques of latching and breastfeeding positions.
• Breastfeed from both breasts and get them emptied equally.
• Drain your breasts regularly to avoid congestion or the pain of engorgement.
• Talk to your doctor, try appropriate remedies, and keep up with your breastfeeding routine even if you have mastitis.
• All babies are different, and not every baby may want to feed as much or as little as any other, so follow your baby’s cues.
• Avoid illegal drugs, caffeine, alcohol, smoking, and foods that may affect your baby negatively.
• If you choose to do so, prepare yourself to breastfeed in public.
• Do not hesitate to seek help if you’re struggling with breastfeeding or any challenges crop up on the way.

By following these tips and getting professional help, you’d soon get used to the norm as it’ll become an enjoyable part of your routine. You’d start looking forward to the time with hopes and affection.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

For your convenience and more information, here are a few places you can find comprehensive details on breastfeeding:

• ACOG
• Abbott Nutrition
• Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine
• American Academy of Pediatrics
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• Medela
• Stanford School of Medicine
• Women’s Heath
• Zipmilk

Additionally, you can always find breastfeeding help from friends and family, your doctor, birthing center, lactation professionals, a postpartum doula, local support groups, and online forums or websites. You can get excellent guidance from these resources, even in critical situations.

NEED HELP? CONSULT C-SECTION RECOVERY CENTER EXPERTS

If you are a new mother yourself or know someone who may need help, let our compassionate specialists at C-Section Recovery Center help you take your best steps towards successful breastfeeding.

Call us today at 972-630-4855 to learn more about breastfeeding positions, baby cues, how to latch, feeding patterns, leaking, and nipple care. Feel free to contact us with your concerns – we can provide education, assistance, and resources throughout your postpartum period.