Being able to breastfeed your baby and the connection it forms is a special experience many women hold dear. Not only does breastfeeding provide your baby with nutrients, you can pass on many protections from allergens as well. The time spent together also helps you create a special bond with your baby. There’s something primal and nurturing about providing nourishment to your baby. With the ability to grow life and then sustain it through breastfeeding — the human body is truly a miracle.
While it can feel like a miracle to be able to breastfeed, it doesn’t come without some discomfort. Sore nipples, engorged breasts, and even leaky milk are all issues that may come with the experience. Keep reading to learn ways to stay comfortable while breastfeeding your little one.
(Please note, a fed baby is a healthy and happy baby. If you need to — or choose to — bottle feed that is perfectly okay, too.)
1. Comfortable Clothing
The right clothing goes a long way, especially when breastfeeding a newborn. Learning the ins and outs of motherhood, breastfeeding, and latching is a constant and sometimes exhausting task. And as your baby’s source of nourishment, you are in high demand. Your baby will likely be eating every 1.5 to 3 hours. Comfortable, easy-access clothing is helpful with the round-the-clock feedings and also provides relief if your breasts become engorged.
If you’re home alone with your partner, going braless might help. However, this can sometimes be painful with tender and full breasts. Having a bra with compression may ease this discomfort. Wireless bras and special breastfeeding bras with a flap that opens will allow you to stay more comfortable. And special wraps or drapes can assist with ease of access when in public or when you want more privacy.
2. Creams and Pads
Like many parts of motherhood, you have probably seen the highlight reels of breastfeeding on social media. The truth is, breastfeeding can be a magical time for you and your baby. But it also may be really challenging and even physically painful. Your baby could fail to latch. You might have extremely sore nipples and even develop mastitis.
Most likely you will leak milk, often at inopportune times and places. Don’t suffer in silence; many women experience these same things and there are products to help. You can place nursing pads in your bra to absorb leaking milk. There are nipple creams available for sore and cracking nipples. If you have severe pain or other symptoms of mastitis, contact your doctor for relief and treatment.
3. Pillows and Nursing Zones
Breastfeeding pillows go a long way, too. All the hours sitting up and holding a baby can make your arms and back tired and sore. A breastfeeding pillow will give you comfort and support, allowing you to prop up your baby while nursing. It may also help you position your infant at the perfect angle for latching.
For extra comfort, set up nursing zones in your home. Designate certain spots in your home for breastfeeding and make sure they’re stocked with everything you need. A diaper caddy, nursing pillow, and a little table beside your chair are great to keep in your nursing zones. Keeping these things nearby ensures you have everything within grasp while you sit down to nurse. For those exhausted and sleepless days, having a ready-to-go area can be a relief instead of moving things all day.
4. Snacks and Hydration
Breastfeeding burns a lot of calories and you might even get dehydrated while feeding your baby. You need extra water in your system to promote lactation. Because of this, focus on hydration. Remember those nursing zones that you just set up? Keep water and snacks in them as well.
Taking the time to care for yourself while being a new mom is challenging. Having these items readily available will help you care for yourself while caring for the baby throughout the day. Make sure your snacks are healthy and protein-rich. To stay hydrated, you don’t have to stick to just water. Gatorade, Body Armor, and Propel are packed with replenishing electrolytes and vitamins.
5. Support and Help
Do you have a little bell to ring to call for your partner or other support giver? Just kidding, though it would be nice. However, having ample support during this time is paramount. Breastfeeding establishes a wonderful connection with your new bundle of joy, but can sometimes leave your partner feeling disconnected. Let them support you in other ways.
Allow them to be in charge of changing diapers after feeding. Ask them to keep your drinks and snacks replenished. Spending time holding or rocking the baby during non-feeding times will give you a break from feeling ‘touched out.’ And giving you time to shower is a blessing you won’t understand until you’ve had a baby.
Breastfeeding is a magical and wonderful time as you’re stepping into motherhood. It can also be painful, exhausting, and challenging. Utilizing the tips above will help you stay more comfortable while breastfeeding. Once you find what works for you, it’ll become easier and more enjoyable for you and your little family.