Hello and welcome! My name is Stacey, your Newborn Photographer in Augusta, GA. I wanted to provide some more information to those moms who are wanting to breastfeed. Breastfeeding brings a host of health benefits for you and your child. It provides all the essential nutrients and antibodies to your newborn that boost their developmental process and ensures a healthy growth. It even helps you build closer ties with your little one.

However, breastfeeding doesn't come easy to every mother especially if you are a first-time mom. To make your breastfeeding a smoother process, I compiled a list of some essential breastfeeding tips for all the new moms out there. Have a look!

Breastfeeding Tips

Equip yourself with all the essential supplies:

It would be great if you can get your hands on some essential supplies that could make the breastfeeding journey easy for you. For instance, nursing bras are extremely useful in giving your breasts appropriate support while feeding. With a nursing bra, you don't have to entirely undress yourself while feeding the baby. You can also use a breast pump, bottles, or breast milk storage bags. With these essentials, you can easily store the milk for later usage. Many people also prefer a nursing pillow to add comfort while they are feeding their little ones.

Go for breastfeeding classes

Outside of this post, a great place for breastfeeding tips is attending breastfeeding classes. If you are a first-time mother and nervous to begin breastfeeding, take some breastfeeding classes. Enlighten yourself with all the vital guidelines and instructions on how to start breastfeeding. If these classes are not available in your community, you might opt out for an online session or a one on one session with a health expert.

Talk to your healthcare provider

It would be best to discuss your breastfeeding plans with a health specialist. This way, your health team will ensure that you get the right supplies and resources as per your breastfeeding plan. Additionally, they could also alter your medications or provide a substitute for your breastfeeding period.

Begin breastfeeding right after the delivery

One of the best breastfeeding tips I can give is to begin breastfeeding your child right after the birth. The first feeds are highly effective in nourishing your baby. Your breast milk contains a special yellow fluid called colostrum which is full of proteins and antibodies. Moreover, breastfeeding also induces the release of a hormone called oxytocin which helps you bond with your child. It also establishes a skin-to-skin contact which helps to regulate your baby's temperature and heartbeat.

Ensure that you breastfeed from both your breasts in the right way

Babies develop preference for one breast. However, make sure that you feed your babies from both your breasts so that they get emptied equally. It is also important to ensure that you have the right position while feeding your baby. You could try different traditional positions including, cradle position, cross-cradle hold, side lying position or football position. Holding your baby the right way while feeding also helps to equally empty your breasts and helps in latching.

Final Thoughts on These Breastfeeding Tips

It's quite a common experience to feel anxious while breastfeeding your newborns especially if you are not sure you are doing it the right way. These breastfeeding tips should help ensure that you have an easier journey! Remember, every baby is different, so you be patient. You’re doing your best and so are they!

Check This Out

Before you leave, I wanted to reach out to you if you’re a mama in the Columbia, SC area! Make sure you check out my portfolio to book a newborn photoshoot to capture this special time in your little one’s life! I can’t wait to hear from you!

Looking for more first-time-mama resources? Take a look at these!