Breastfeeding tips and advice for nursing moms

As you prepare to deliver, one of the decisions to be made is how you will feed your baby. Breastfeeding is recommended because it provides the most benefit to both mother and baby. Our San Antonio obstetricians offer extensive support and advice for nursing moms.

For the baby, breastmilk is an ideal source of nutrition for many reasons.

Meets and adapts to the baby’s changing nutritional needs
Contains antibodies that reduce infections
Reduces risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
Is easier for the baby to digest

For the mother, breastfeeding offers immediate and longer-term benefits.

Causes the uterus to contract, returning it to its normal size
Facilitates pregnancy weight loss
Lowers risk of some types of breast cancer and ovarian cancer
Reduces risk of type 2 diabetes

It is recommended that women breastfeed for at least six months. That may seem like a long time, but setting shorter-term goals and taking it week by week may help get you closer to that mark. Many women find nursing their babies so convenient and efficient that they continue to breastfeed well past six months. Your child will continue to receive benefits from breastmilk for as long as you choose to breastfeed.

Preparing for breastfeeding

For some women, this feeding approach feels very natural and easy. For others, it will require more instruction and practice. The good news is, there are many resources available from which to learn. Your doctor, the hospital where you deliver, lactation consultants, and support groups can provide needed education, support and advice for nursing moms.

Before you give birth, attend lactation classes or learn about the resources that are available to support you in nursing your baby.

More advice for nursing moms

Breastfeeding can begin very soon after your baby is born. Skin-to-skin contact with your baby will stimulate the baby to start feeding. The first milk that your body produces is called colostrum, and it offers several benefits. It helps protect your baby from infections and helps your baby’s digestive system to develop. While you are in the hospital, utilize the hospital’s resources and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Here’s another very important piece of advice for nursing moms: Be patient with yourself. You and your baby will get the hang of it. You will also figure out the best feeding positions for you and your baby.

New moms are often concerned about their babies getting the right nutrients as they grow. Our San Antonio obstetricians explain that as your child gets older, your milk changes to meet their nutritional needs.

Take care of yourself

Being a new mom comes with a lot of changes and some challenges. Taking care of yourself during this time will help with lactation. Eating healthy and staying hydrated makes a difference. Also, rest when you can and get as much sleep as possible.

Going back to work

If you are returning to work or other commitments while still nursing your baby, begin expressing or pumping breast milk for feedings while you are at work. In the weeks before going back to work, practice giving your baby a bottle with breastmilk. Our San Antonio obstetricians are happy to offer their advice for working and traveling while breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding can seem intimidating at first, but many women find it a special time of connection with their baby. You and your baby will figure it out, and our San Antonio obstetricians can provide sound advice for nursing moms to help you get started and work through any challenges. For an appointment, call Legacy Women’s Health.

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