While breastfeeding may seem like the most natural thing a woman can do, it’s not as easy as it looks in breastfeeding videos and classes. I couldn’t get Noah to breastfeed, whereas Isla did this very well. Yes, you want to provide nourishment for your newborn baby, but there may be some questions that come up as you start breastfeeding. To give you the peace of mind you seek, here are answers to some of the most pressing breastfeeding questions:
- Can breastfeeding hurt?
The answer to this question is not at all clear-cut. For many women, breastfeeding doesn’t hurt at all. However, some women feel pain because their babies are not latching properly, so their breast ducts get blocked. In this case, breastfeeding can be unbearable.
If a woman suffers from clogged breast ducts and cannot seem to get her baby to latch properly, she can always consider feeding with high-quality baby formula for newborns. There are also medical professionals who can help, and a pediatrician is a great place to start.
Generally speaking, effective breastfeeding should feel like your nipples are gently being tugged. The baby’s tongue and gums should massage the breast ducts, and this should soothe any pain that may arise.
- Can all moms produce enough milk to breastfeed their babies?
Again, the answer to this question differs from one mom to another. Most moms do produce enough milk to breastfeed their babies for a long period of time. The key to producing milk is to start breastfeeding as soon as possible after giving birth.
You may begin producing milk before you give birth, which is perfectly normal. There are some recommended foods that mothers are advised to eat in order to produce more milk. However, it’s generally the case that, as long as your baby requires milk, your body will continue to produce it.
Just be aware that as you decrease the number of times you feed your baby each day, the amount of milk you produce will also decrease.
- Are breast milk bags worth it?
When shopping for baby products, you may stumble across an aisle that contains breast milk bags for storing excess breast milk. These bags are excellent for working moms who need to store the breastmilk that they produce.
If you’re producing too much milk and your baby is not drinking as much, you can always extract your milk and freeze it. You can store your breast milk in the refrigerator for about five days and always have a milk supply for your baby.
- How long should you breastfeed?
The first six months of your baby’s life are the critical period for breastfeeding. While you can get formula for newborns, and while this is generally of high quality, breast is still best during these early months.
You can continue breastfeeding for a year or longer thereafter as a complementary source of nutrition along with the other food that your baby can eat. Working moms usually stop breastfeeding after six months and replace breast milk with formula.
Again, you need to base your decision on your situation and what is best for you and your baby. If you want to continue breastfeeding your baby for four years, you can certainly do so.
- How often do moms need to breastfeed their babies during the day?
Once again, the answer to this question is dependent on your baby. Most babies require milk eight to twelve times per day. However, babies who consume less milk every time they feed may require more feeds throughout the day.
From the number of feeds your child has in a day to the sensations you experience while breastfeeding, in general, your intuition is an excellent guide.
Thanks
Most wonderful feeling to breastfeed : can have its moments