Breastfeeding Tips for Expectant Mothers
Having a child can be one of the most satisfying moments in a woman’s life. After the baby is born, an important aspect to prepare for is breastfeeding. Although it may not seem like a very tough task to new mothers, most women who have had children in the past would be quick to tell you that sometimes breastfeeding is anything but simple.
To help future mothers everywhere, the following are a few breastfeeding tips to help lessen the difficulties of motherhood that you may experience during the early stages of your child’s development.
Good Positioning
The way the baby is positioned can greatly affect the mother’s comfort level when breastfeeding. There are several variations to the common cradle method that can be more effective depending on your own position when you feed your baby.
Cross-cradling
Hold your baby in the elbow area on the same side as the breast being used. Supporting the breast with the opposite hand, roll the child’s body toward you so you are both touching at the belly.
Clutching
Supporting your baby’s head with the hand on the same side of the breast used for feeding, hold the child like you would a football. For added comfort, place a pillow under your arm.
Side-lying (modified cradle)
When lying on your side, place your baby in the crook of your arm and position your baby so his/her body is facing yours. This position not only prevents you from rolling over the baby if you fall asleep, but also keeps the baby’s head higher than his/her stomach, which lessens the chances of your baby spitting up after breastfeeding.
Correct Latch-On
Just because your child’s mouth is attached to the nipple of the breast does not mean he/she is properly latched and feeding efficiently. To ensure that your child has a proper hold on the breast, use the following techniques:
C-hold
Place your thumb on top and your fingers underneath one to two inches behind the nipple. This method is best for cradle positions.
U-hold
Slide your hand so the thumb is on one side of the breast and the fingers on the other. This technique works best when the baby is in the clutched position.
Diet & Exercise
Remember to take care of your personal health, since it directly affects the overall health of your baby. This doesn’t mean that you have eat a strict diet and follow a rigorous workout routine, but you should aim to eat healthy whenever possible and exercise for a minimum of 30 minutes at least three days a week. In doing so, you can ensure that your baby is properly cared for during and after your pregnancy.
At his Las Vegas practice, Dr. George Alexander offers many breast enhancement procedures to restore the appearance of your breasts after pregnancy. Whether you desire a breast lift to improve the position of the breasts after breastfeeding or a mommy makeover for full body rejuvenation after pregnancy, Dr. Alexander can help you achieve your goals. Call (702) 242-6776 or fill out an online contact form today.