5 tips for breastfeeding success | Jewell Chiropractic

By Dr. Lisa Jewell
Founder of Jewell Chiropractic

Breastfeeding is a wonderful, natural way to nourish your baby. However, many mothers struggle with breastfeeding their babies. Breastfeeding doesn’t always come easy, even if it did with previous children.

Women with trouble breastfeeding are much more common than you might think, largely in part because we don’t talk about it! There are so many things that can contribute to a mom’s success or failure with nursing.

If you’re feeling frustrated and struggling with breastfeeding problems, you’re not alone. Here are 5 tips to help set you up for breastfeeding success.

Connect with a lactation consultant.

Before you give birth, find an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant® (IBCLC®). If possible, aim to meet several consultants so you can find one that you like and connect with the most.

Once you find the right IBCLC, schedule a prenatal visit. They’ll help you learn the important info before your baby arrives and you’re in the thick of it.

If you can’t find or afford a lactation consultant, look online! Virtual classes and groups can be an alternative.

Set up your feeding ‘throne.’

Find the place you think you’ll do most of your feedings, and make sure you will be comfortable for hours at a time. Many mothers like to have a footrest, back pillow, and safe spot to set their water and phone.

Don’t forget a support pillow like a boppy or mybreastfriend.

Get comfortable.

Make sure you’re comfortable in the room! Is the temperature warm enough? Do you have water and healthy snacks nearby?

It can be hard to pay attention to your needs, but staying hydrated and nourished is necessary for a healthy milk supply.

Have complex protein snacks like nuts and meat or cheese sticks on hand for easy snacking. Even granola bars will do in a pinch, so stock up with your favorites!

Feed your baby every 2-3 hours, or as often as they need it.

Newborns and babies in the first weeks of life eat small amounts often. Pay attention to when your baby is hungry and feed them as often as needed.

As your baby gets older, they will start going longer and longer between feedings. Talk to your pediatrician about these changes and what to expect, so you know ahead of time.

Ask for help.

There’s no shame in asking for help! All new moms need help sometimes, whether it’s help from a partner or a professional.

Your experience breastfeeding can change from month to month, or even day to day. Don’t be ashamed to add support tools like nipple shields or haakaas, even if you didn’t need them with earlier children.

Remember to breathe.

In the first days, weeks, and even months of breastfeeding your baby, you may feel overwhelmed. This is completely natural! You are learning how to breastfeed a new person in this world. It takes time for both mom and baby to adjust.

You have five tips for success – try them all! And don’t forget that relaxation can be key too: take some deep breaths when things get difficult or overwhelming.

Still have questions about breastfeeding?

If you have other breastfeeding questions, please leave a comment or get in touch today.

ABOUT JEWELL CHIROPRACTIC

Jewell Chiropractic is a place to find support and build community for moms in all stages of life. We believe that our bodies can do amazing things when given the right care and routines to continue at home. Our specialties include Webster, Craniosacral, Pelvic Floor Rehab, Diastasis Recti Rehab, Active Release, and Instrument Assisted Myofascial Release in conjuncture with Chiropractic Adjustments. Book an appointment now.