So you’re thinking about breastfeeding? Great!
Firstly, congratulations, you’re providing your baby with the very best that nature has to offer!
In this post, we’re going to discuss 5 things you need to know about breastfeeding. Don’t worry, it’s light reading and you’ve got this.
1. You can’t learn everything until the baby arrives
Though you’ll probably want to consume every bit of information that you can about breastfeeding before the baby arrives, know that you can’t really learn anything until they’re here!
Every baby is different, every breast is different, and every mum is different, which means that your breastfeeding journey will be unique to you and your little one.
There are lots of different positions to try so that you can find something that you both love (helloooo laying tummy to tummy, what a way to breastfeed and nap at the same time!). And it could be that your baby latches on immediately, or it might be that they need a little help for the first few days.
Midwives and lactations consultants are there to help us with breastfeeding - take some time with a specialist after your birth and let them show you the way.
2. People don’t mind
Before I had my baby I was so nervous about feeding in front of people - particularly my in-laws and granddad. But you know what? Nobody cared! They loved it and thought that it was the most wonderful thing ever - in fact, often they got a little too close for comfort…
When it comes to breastfeeding in public, you do you. Fellow mums and dads are looking at you with love, not judgement. And do we really have time for the glares and opinions of people who haven’t kept a baby alive using their body?!
3. It’s one of the very best things that you can do for your baby
Breast milk is commonly referred to as liquid gold for a reason. It’s the very best thing to ensure that babies easily get all of the goodness and nutrients that they need.
The reason it can’t be replicated in a lab is that every woman produces different breastmilk. That’s right! Your breastmilk will be made according to your baby’s precise needs, isn’t that amazing?
When your baby is sick your body will know upon contact with your baby’s saliva, and immediately start producing antibodies to boost their immunity. Yep, the female body is amazing.
4. It’s recommended that you breastfeed for at least 2 years
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends breastfeeding for 2 years or more. And although that may sound like a long time, trust us when we say: it goes so quickly!
Breastfeeding your baby for any amount of time is wonderful, aim for 6 months minimum and then see how you feel. Remember, you can always express and feed your baby from a bottle if you need to go back to work or simply want a bit of time to yourself.
5. There is lots of support available for you
Whatever stage you are at of your breastfeeding journey, there is help and support available if you are struggling. You can ask your midwife or health visitor for advice and some areas have dedicated infant feeding support teams you can be referred to. You can also find out more here about support available here "https://stylishmum.co.uk/about-breastfeeding-29-w.asp"> >So sure, read up on breastfeeding before your baby arrives, but please don’t let it consume your mind! It’s a natural process and there are so many professionals to hold your hand every step of the way.
Already a mama? What do you wish you had known about breastfeeding?