Breast milk is the best source of nourishment for the newborn; it contains exactly what the baby needs in terms of nutrients, calories and antibodies to disease. The organism prepares the breasts without the woman having to do much; however, there are some things you can do to know what to expect and plan accordingly.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Preparing for Breastfeeding
Step 1. Massage your breasts without "mistreating" them
This way, you can relax and get ready in case you need to manually express milk for your baby.
- The massage should be gentle and should not cause pain. Start at the top of the breast, making circular motions as you move towards the nipple. Afterwards, bring your hand outwards again, but to another area and repeat the process; continue in this way until you have treated all of your breasts.
- Do not rub your nipples vigorously with a towel, as this will make them sore and remove the natural sebum produced by the breasts.
Step 2. Determine if you have inverted nipples
Some women have flat or inverted nipples, which have a recess in the center; you can understand if you have this anomaly by doing the "pinch" test:
- Pinch the breast with the thumb and forefinger near the areola, the dark part surrounding the nipple for a diameter of 2-3 cm.
- If the nipple becomes turgid, it means that it is not inverted; if it retracts into the breast, it is turned inside out. Women may have one "normal" nipple and the other affected by this anomaly.
- The severity of the introflexion is variable, it can be mild or very pronounced.
- The doctor is able to come to a diagnosis on this.
Step 3. Don't worry if you have inverted nipples
Many women still manage to breastfeed their babies without any problems. However, there are some devices on the market and techniques you can learn if your baby is having difficulty breastfeeding:
- Make your nipples protrude with specific cups. These are plastic devices that are pressed onto the breast to make the nipple pop out. You can prepare your breasts for breastfeeding by wearing them before delivery and after the baby is born for half an hour before feeding.
- Follow Hoffman's technique to lengthen the nipple and make it protrude more easily. Place both thumbs on the sides of the nipple and press towards the breast, while pushing the thumbs away from each other; repeat this movement all around the nipple. Start with two sessions a day and gradually increase them to five; do not stop practicing after childbirth.
- Use a breast pump to extract the nipple just before feeding.
- Try a specific device. On the market you can find tools that use the sucking force to make the nipples protrude.
- Stimulate the nipples for swelling before breastfeeding. Massage them with your thumb and forefinger until they stick out. You can also apply a cold pack for a short time, but keep your nipples from losing sensitivity. the latter remedy, however, reduces the flow of milk.
- When the baby latches on to the breast for feeding, squeeze the breast or pull the skin towards the chest. they are both movements that cause the nipple to protrude.
- Consider using a teat by asking your childcare provider for advice. It is a silicone device that is placed on the breast and which allows the milk to flow through a hole to the mouth of the baby. If the baby has difficulty grasping the nipple with the mouth, the teat may help; however, you must not use it without the support of a professional, because you must be sure you are using it correctly.
Step 4. Keep your breasts clean, but don't use harsh soaps
It is sufficient to wash it with water to keep it in perfect hygienic conditions.
- No lotions or lubricants are needed, unless the nipples are very dry.
- If you have psoriasis or eczema, ask your doctor what medications you can use while breastfeeding.
- Wash your hands before feeding or before expressing the milk.
Step 5. If you have adopted the baby, use a breast pump to stimulate milk production
Many adoptive mothers are often able to breastfeed by stimulating the breasts.
- Use the pump every two to three hours, day and night, before the baby arrives.
- Use a supplemental feeding device to supplement your baby's feeding which, by sucking the nipple, also stimulates your body to increase milk production.
- The amount of milk that foster mothers can produce can vary greatly; infant formula may need to be used.
Part 2 of 2: Identifying Other Sources
Step 1. Talk to trusted friends and family members who have nursed
They can give you a lot of advice and a lot of support.
Difficulties with breastfeeding are very common and you almost certainly know any woman who has had the same problems as you
Step 2. Talk to your doctor
Many hospital maternity wards have staff available to help new mothers.
- Consult your doctor about any medicines, herbal remedies, or supplements you plan to take while breastfeeding; inquire if these products are safe for the baby.
- If you have had breast surgery or have implants, ask your doctor if these factors can interfere with your ability to breastfeed.
Step 3. Take pre-breastfeeding courses
By doing so, you can learn the correct techniques, including the proper way to hold the baby to encourage him to latch on.
- During these courses the presence of partners is strongly recommended, so that they too know what to do to be of support.
- Ask the experts any questions that come to mind.
Step 4. Contact a child care provider
Even if the baby is not yet born, make an appointment with this professional to discuss your concerns and build trust.
If you need help learning to breastfeed, the child care provider can come to your home to assist you
Step 5. Join a support group
Your doctor may suggest one in your area; if there are none, you can search online.
La Leche League International offers online and "physical" support groups, as well as a series of information sessions in many languages
Warnings
- If you are taking any medications, herbal remedies, or supplements, ask your doctor if breastfeeding is safe for you and the baby. some substances could be dangerous for the newborn if they were administered through breast milk.
- If you are HIV-positive, have full-blown AIDS, or have another illness that you may be passing on to your baby through milk, consult your doctor before considering breastfeeding.
