It is essential to hold your baby in the correct position while breastfeeding. Many of the common problems mothers face when breastfeeding come from not positioning the baby properly, which can lead to nipple irritation and difficulty for the baby to get enough milk.
Suitable environment for breastfeeding
The environment is key to successful breastfeeding. Breast milk flows best when a mother is relaxed and comfortable. If your home is busy or stressful, it is a good idea to find a quiet place where you can breastfeed without distractions. Some mothers find it helpful to accompany breastfeeding with soft music and a healthy drink. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before breastfeeding.
Preparing your baby physically for breastfeeding
Partially undress the baby This can be a good technique to help keep your baby awake during breastfeeding. Skin-to-skin contact not only promotes greater emotional closeness, but also contributes to better sucking.
It is possible that your baby may fall asleep while breastfeeding if he is overdressed. Partially undressing him can prevent this and encourage more efficient sucking. This contact also promotes better alignment of his body, which is crucial for a good latch.
Changing positions
It is important to try different positions to find the one that works best for you and your baby. Proper positioning not only improves suction, but also prevents back pain and sensitive nipples. Always remember to hold your baby at nipple level to avoid unnecessary strain on his or her body.
Frequent changing of position not only promotes drainage of all milk from the breast, but also prevents irritation in specific areas of the nipple.
Most common breastfeeding positions
There are several breastfeeding positions that can be adapted to the needs of each mother and baby. Each has its benefits and can be used depending on how you feel at that moment or the physical characteristics of the baby.
- Cradle position: This is one of the most classic positions. The mother sits in a comfortable chair or rocking chair, and can use a low bench to support her feet, avoiding back strain. The baby is placed on the mother's arm, resting his head in the crook of the elbow. A pillow under the arm may be helpful for added support.
- Side position: In this position, mother and baby are lying down, which can be ideal for nighttime feedings or after a cesarean section. The baby should be positioned on his side, facing the mother's body, with his mouth at the level of the nipple. A pillow behind the baby can help keep him from moving.
- American football position: This position can be especially helpful for mothers who have had a cesarean section or who have large breasts. The baby is held under the mother's arm like a football, with his head resting on the mother's hand and his neck aligned with the nipple.
- Horse position: The baby is placed sitting on the mother's leg while his abdomen rests on the mother's. This position is useful for premature babies, those with gastroesophageal reflux or those with anatomical problems such as cleft lip.
Preventing injuries during breastfeeding
To minimize discomfort, it is key to ensure that the baby latches on to the breast correctlyWhen your baby is not sucking properly, he or she may not be getting enough milk, and this could also cause nipple tenderness or pain.
- Stimulation of the sucking reflex: If your baby doesn't open his mouth fully, you can use your nipple to gently brush his cheek, which will prompt your baby to turn his head and open his mouth to begin sucking.
- Ensuring an effective grip: The baby should take not only the nipple, but also a good part of the areola. This will allow his mouth, lips and gums to effectively press on the area where the milk accumulates.
How to detect a good suction
During breastfeeding, you should be able to observe certain behaviors in your baby that indicate that he is feeding correctly:
- The baby must make continuous contact with the breast.
- The jaw should move rhythmically and you should hear how you swallow.
- After feeding, your baby should appear satisfied and relaxed.
Break the grip without causing damage
When it is necessary to change sides or end the breastfeeding session, you should breaking the baby's grip appropriately to avoid causing pain to your nipple. Gently insert a finger into the corner of your baby's mouth to break the seal that has been created between the mouth and the breast.
There are no strict schedules for breastfeeding.
First-time mothers often wonder how often they should breastfeed their baby. However, There is no strict schedule for breastfeeding.. Baby will eat when he is hungry, and over time, you both will develop a routine of your own. The important thing is to be receptive to your baby's hunger cues: sucking, rooting, or mouthing.
Your baby's demand will determine how often he needs to feed. By offering him the breast whenever he asks for it, you will be meeting all of his nutritional and emotional needs.
The milk ejection reflex
When the baby starts to suckle, many mothers experience a tickling sensation in the breasts, known as the milk ejection reflex. This reflex causes milk to flow from the ducts to the nipple, and is stimulated by the baby's sucking. In addition, sometimes this reflex can be triggered by hearing the baby cry or even thinking about the baby.
Milk production and proper latching
To ensure that the baby gets the right amount of milk, his mouth should be wide open and cover a large part of the areola. The baby's sucking reflex is vital, and a correct latch involves using not only the nipple, but also compressing the milk ducts under the areola.
Common mistakes made by new mothers It is important to assume that the baby instinctively knows how to latch on to the breast. Although some babies manage to do this on their own after birth, most will require help and practice in the first few weeks. The key is patience and observation.
Breastfeeding on both breasts
It is recommended that the baby feeds from both breasts during breastfeeding sessions. This ensures that the ducts on both breasts are emptied properly, thus preventing blockages that can cause pain or more serious conditions such as mastitis. Each breast should be offered for at least 15 minutes before switching sides.
If the baby finishes one side, break the seal gently and offer the other breast. Remember that posture and comfort are key to avoiding back pain and nipple discomfort.
Avoid breast engorgement
During the first days of breastfeeding, it is common for mothers to experience breast engorgement or engorgementThis occurs when the breasts fill with milk quickly, causing discomfort or tenderness. Using cold or warm compresses and emptying the breasts regularly can help relieve these symptoms.
Post-breastfeeding care
After each breastfeeding session, it is important to take proper care of your body. Wash your breasts with warm water and avoid using soaps or products that can dry out the skin. If your nipples become cracked or irritated, consider using creams with lanolin or consult your doctor.