Together with the doctor, we figure out how to make this process as comfortable as possible for a young mother and baby.
Breastfeeding is almost mystical. After all, this is not just the satisfaction of children’s hunger, it is also the formation of the closest bond between mother and baby. Not to mention the fact that nature has not invented a better food than mother’s milk.
“During feeding, the woman’s body produces oxytocin (the hormone of love), – says mammologist Irina Dronova. – When a newborn feels warm and cared for, then he gets less sick. Despite the seemingly simplicity of the action, many mothers are experiencing problems. “
When the baby is hungry
First of all, it is not always possible to catch the moment when the baby needs to be fed. The doctor warns: if the child cried from hunger, then the most favorable moment has been missed.
“The toddler bends the arms, clenches the fists or imitates the sucking movements,” our expert describes the signs that the toddler is hungry.
Chest pain
If you feel painful sensations, then the nipples are too sensitive or sore. In order not to infect them, it is necessary to wipe them after each feeding. Then let dry by gently wiping with a flannel cloth. Next, you need to lubricate with a soothing and healing ointment. To prevent the painful situation from recurring, watch how the baby picks up the breast. It is important that he does not cover the entire area around the nipple, but only its lower part. The nipple itself should rest against the sky.
Wrong grip
In this case, you need to try various positions for holding the baby. The main thing is to make it comfortable for him. Do not hold his head too hard or press on it. Place his torso and legs closer to you, and let his head remain free so that he breathes easily and tries to grab his chest himself. If the newborn is having trouble grabbing the nipple, you can try feeding pads.
Milk deficiency
Do not panic if you feel a lack of milk in the first days. This is due to hormonal changes, which usually end after the first week. Doctors advise mothers to rest as much as possible and eat right. Try expressing milk and breastfeeding as often as possible. The body will get used to being a mom.
Heavy chest
As soon as the milk starts coming in, the breasts will become heavier. If you begin to experience painful sensations in the nipple area (redness, burning) and the temperature rises, then inflammation of the breast tissue (mastitis) has begun. However, do not stop feeding your baby! Conversely, this will prevent unwanted milk accumulation. It is best to take a warm shower or apply a soft cloth to your breast to reduce irritation before breastfeeding.
Excess milk
When the body recovers and there is more milk, it starts to leak. The child may inadvertently choke or even choke. Express excess milk. Find a safe position for your child. Try the cradle pose with your baby’s head tilting back. Then give it a rest so that the substances are absorbed.
Breast rejection
This also happens when the baby suddenly stops reaching for the breast. Either you did not properly organize the feeding process, or the baby does not feel well. It is imperative to find out from the doctor how the baby is doing with the health. Regardless, pump your milk every three hours to get used to it and offer your baby the breast.