We love local momma bloggers and today Jill from You, Me and Capri has some great information for new moms who are entering the world of nursing!
Becoming a mother in 2013 has been one of my greatest accomplishments. Along with being one of the most rewarding experiences, I found becoming a mother one of the most challenging. The most difficult season was learning to breastfeed my daughter.
I figured it nursing would be something that would just happen with no preparation, studying, or advice. Nursing involves patience, hard work, learning, perseverance… oh yeah, and blood, sweat and tears (literally)! When you aren’t nursing your newborn, you’ll most likely find yourself hooked up to a glorified milk machine. I got to know my boobs better than I’d ever thought possible.
For most new moms, the first couple of months are the most difficult. After that, most moms will agree the breastfeeding gig gets easier.
I am by no means an expert in this area, but, I did find a few things helpful while navigating the world of breastfeeding.
Here are a few breastfeeding survival tips I picked up along the way:
- Mindset
Try your best to keep a positive mindset. Motherhood is trying, especially when breastfeeding. While being glued to your newborn and pump, gathering advice from more experienced mothers helps a lot. One mom shared this piece of advice with me: “Think of the time you are spending nursing as time otherwise spent in the gym and/or working a part-time job”. Because that’s essentially what you are doing while breastfeeding (you know, besides nourishing your growing baby). When you realize your whole day is a blur of breastfeeding and pumping, it’s helpful to remember that the time spent doing this could be equivalent to working out and working a part time job—at the same time! You’re not only feeding your newborn but also saving money on formula while burning loads of calories. Not to mention, the precious one on one time with your newborn is priceless.
- Drink, Drink, Drink, and Eat, Eat, Eat
Have quick, easy, and healthy snacks nearby. Think nuts, avocados, and peanut butter. Also, grab a big glass of water every time you are feeding or pumping. Eating healthy fats and staying hydrated will keep your milk supply high and frustration low.
- Consistency
Keep your milk flowing and your breasts from hurting by pumping or nursing every 3-4 hours.
- Sleep
Getting a good amount of sleep will help with stress and milk production. Sleep as much as you can, the dishes and laundry can wait.
- Support
Support comes in two forms when you’re breastfeeding; a good bra and good people. Splurge on a supportive nursing bra and lean on your family and friends. Talk to them about what you are experiencing and keep them in the loop on the things you are learning, like, how long breast milk can stay out of the fridge and its shelf life.
Most importantly, remember that you are an amazing mom and never doubt that you know what is best for you and your baby.
Keep up the great work!
Excellent tips! The most important being patience!