Here are 4 simple steps to prepare you for breastfeeding before you hug your little one
Dear Mother,
You are now at a stage where you are waiting for the miracle of life, and you may be wondering: Can I prepare for breastfeeding before my baby is born? The answer is simply: yes, absolutely.
You may think that breastfeeding begins after birth, but it’s actually a journey that starts much earlier. From the moment you realize that you will become a mother, physical and psychological preparation for this great task begins. Let me take you on a quiet tour, where we talk about the most important things you can do to prepare for this stage.
1.Understanding breastfeeding: knowledge is the beginning.
Breastfeeding is more than a lactation process. It’s a deep connection between you and your baby, providing him with milk that contains everything he needs for his physical and immune development, and gives you a unique feeling of motherhood. Your body produces this milk with amazing intelligence, its composition changes as the baby’s growth stages, and even responds to his or her health needs. Isn’t this a real miracle?
The first days after birth are packed with emotions and physical changes. So, when you get ahead of it, you reduce surprises, you understand your body and how your baby responds, and you make decisions with confidence. Always put in mind that every advance information reassures, relieves stress, and makes you more prepared for any challenge.
Here are the most important aspects to know:
a. How does your body produce milk?
the production of your milk begins from the moment of birth due to the hormones “prolactin” and “oxytocin”. The stimulation begins when the baby feeds the nipple, and each feeding encourages the body to produce more.
b. What is a good attachment while breastfeeding?
It is the correct way the baby suckles, so that his mouth is wide open and he grasps a large part of the areola (not just the nipple). This helps to avoid pain and ensures an effective flow of milk.
b. How often should your baby be breastfed?
In the early days, baby needs to be fed 8 to 12 times in 24 hours. The more he suckled, the greater the milk production.
c. How do you know when your baby is full?
Signs of satiety include urination regularly (6 wet diapers daily after the fifth day), weight gain, and a peaceful sleep between feedings.
d. Is your milk enough in the early days?
Yes. The “colostrum milk” produced by your breast is initially small, but very rich and well suited to the baby’s small stomach.
e. Is the pain normal during breastfeeding?
Feeling some sensitivity at first is possible, but severe pain or cracks are not normal and may indicate a mistake in the meeting.
f. Should I adjust my diet?
Balanced nutrition is important, but no need for excessive restrictions. Drinking water regularly and sleeping as much as possible helps you more than you can imagine.
2. Preparing for breastfeeding through your nutrition
Your body begins to produce milk from the pregnancy itself, specifically in the second trimester, and continues to build up the nutritional stores that support you in the first days of breastfeeding. Your diet affects:
Quality and quantity of your milk.
Your physical energy after childbirth.
The speed of your recovery.
During your nutrition, it’s best to focus on:
a. Protein: It helps you to recover after childbirth and it supports the formation of essential milk components. You can eat chicken, eggs, legumes and nuts.
b. Healthy fats: Fats play an important role in the production of milk rich in fatty acids necessary for the development of the baby’s brain. You can find them in avocados, olive oil, and walnuts.
c. Iron and calcium: It helps you to avoid Anemia, and it boosts your energy and strengthens your bones. For iron, focus in your food on spinach, lentils, and red meat. Calcium is found in yogurt, milk, tahini, and broccoli.
d. Fluids: Water is an important ingredient for early production of milk. Keep drinking 8 to 10 glasses daily. You can also drink natural juices and soups.
f. Fiber and vitamins: For comfortable digestion and strong immunity, they also reduce constipation problems after childbirth. You can eat vegetables, fresh fruits, and oats.
3. Body Preparation: Breast Care Begins Now
Dear Mother,
Here are these simple and easy steps to prepare your breasts for feeding:
1. Natural hydration is your secret, start moisturizing the area around the nipple with natural and safe oils, such as: organic coconut oil, shea butter and sweet almond oil. Apply a little after bathing, and massage gently, this helps maintain skin elasticity and reduces the possibility of dryness or cracks later.
2. Avoid direct soap on the nipple, as it is a thin area that contains sebactic glands that secrete natural oils that protect the skin. Using harsh or scented soap may remove this protective layer and make the skin more prone to dryness. You can replace the soap with a towel dampened in warm water, gently wiping the area.
3. Let the nipple breathe because wearing a tight or synthetic bra can cause inflammation or irritation. Choose comfortable cotton straps, and allow air if you can, especially when sleeping.
4. No need to rub or “strengthen” nipples. Do not do any rough rubbing or “painful preparation” of the nipples. The skin does not need hardening, but care and tenderness. 5. Keep an eye out for any changes. If you notice abnormal discharge, persistent pain or lumps, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor. Some changes are normal during pregnancy, but it’s always best to be sure.
4. Create the environment: Support always makes the difference
Dear Mother,
You’re not just preparing for a new baby, but for a whole new life. In the midst of physical and emotional changes, breastfeeding is one of the most profound and important experiences. While the physical aspect is often highlighted, there is an equally important aspect: the environment around you.
You should know that you are breastfeeding also with your heart and your psychological state. Therefore, your sense of security and reassurance and having a supportive environment helps to:
Reduce stress and anxiety.
Boost the mother’s self-confidence
Overcome difficulties that may appear in the first days.
Provide time and space for rest and recovery after childbirth.
Now I’ll tell you about the sources of support during your feeding:
1. Yourself, dear mother: Try to set aside time each day to relax for only 10 minutes. Talk to someone who comforts you, or write down your feelings. Never blame yourself if you encounter difficulties, and remember that breastfeeding is an acquired skill, not a test of success the first time.
2. Your partner: The supportive man does not breastfeed, but he embraces you every moment you need extra strength. He can bring the baby to you during the night and encourage you in moments of fatigue and will always remind you of rest and nutrition.
3. Family and relatives: They may have good intentions, but sometimes they give old or frustrating advice. So surround yourself with someone who makes you feel comfortable, not stressed.
4. Medical Team: There are dislike hospitals that support breastfeeding and provide a postpartum lactation counselor.
Breastfeeding is a beautiful journey despite its challenges, but every step becomes easier when it is illuminated by knowledge. So take the time to understand, to ask, and to learn. Every piece of information you gain today is a point of light for you tomorrow with your child. Always remember that motherhood does not require perfection, but awareness and love.