Learning successful breastfeeding techniques is important for both mother and baby. Initiating breastfeeding soon after birth, using comfortable positions, frequent and full breastfeeding, and creating a calm environment are key techniques. Patience during the first few weeks can lead to successful breastfeeding throughout the baby’s first year and beyond.
Learning successful breastfeeding techniques increases the likelihood of a successful breastfeeding experience for both mother and baby. Breastfeeding can be a challenge, but learning different techniques, such as how to successfully initiate breastfeeding, daily activities that make breastfeeding easier, and different positions for holding your baby, make the process easier. It’s important to remember that if one breastfeeding technique isn’t working, it’s okay to try something different. The first few weeks are the busiest when breastfeeding; patience during this time can lead to successful breastfeeding through the baby’s first year and beyond.
Before giving birth, ask your doctor when postpartum nursing is allowed. While complications can arise during childbirth that may make it necessary for the baby to visit daycare immediately, in cases of a problem-free full-term birth, breastfeeding soon after birth is important. About 45 minutes after birth to two hours after delivery, most newborns are wide awake and eager to eat. The baby is usually calm and receptive to breastfeeding this time, and the mothers breast is not yet engorged with milk, which makes it easier for the baby to latch on. The colostrum that a mother produces during the first few days can also help boost the baby’s immune system.
There are several positions that allow mother and baby to feel comfortable while breastfeeding. Feeling comfortable while breastfeeding is one of the breastfeeding techniques that allows you to breastfeed for longer periods of time. Moms who are comfortable breastfeeding in public, and who can easily breastfeed while lying in bed or sitting at the kitchen table, will be less inclined to wean early for the sake of convenience.
The cradle position is the most common position. The mother sits in a comfortable chair, with the baby nestled in the crook of her arm, supporting the baby’s head and neck with her elbow. The baby’s body and legs are supported by the mother’s forearm and hand. For the cross-cradle position, the baby faces the opposite direction, with the mother’s hand supporting the baby’s head and neck.
The “kick” grip is good for very young children. While the mother is seated in a comfortable chair, she positions the baby so that his head and body are under the mother’s arm, with the baby’s head supported by the mother’s hand and her body on the mother’s arm . The lateral position allows the mother to rest while she feeds the baby. Mom and baby lie down, facing each other. The mother uses her upper arm to support the baby and positions her lower breast so that the baby can latch on.
Frequent and full breastfeeding are also important breastfeeding techniques, as they both help the baby learn how to breastfeed and encourage the breasts to produce an adequate amount of milk. Feed newborns 8 to 12 times in each 24-hour period and nurse from both breasts with each feed. Alternate which breast you start feeding with, to make sure your baby doesn’t develop a preference.
Create a calm environment when breastfeeding. Older babies can easily nurse when distracted or while you are distracted. As you learn breastfeeding techniques, choose a quiet room and take a few minutes to calm down and focus on your baby before you start breastfeeding. Taking time to feel comfortable breastfeeding will make the process enjoyable and increase your chances of success.
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