Breastfeeding can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. The La Leche League has long championed breastfeeding because of its benefits for both mother and baby. Breastfeeding, though, is not always easy, according to the website BabyCenter. Finding a comfortable position and keeping your nipples pain-free can make nursing much easier and encourage you to continue beyond baby's first weeks.
Proper Positioning
Babies are able to feed more effectively when they are held at the breast properly. La Leche League recommends that mom first make herself comfortable by using pillows for back and arm support. A footrest can also be helpful. The baby should be facing mom so that he doesn't have to turn his head to reach the breast, La Leche advises. Mom should pull him close and guide her breast to his mouth.
Sore Nipples
Sore nipples are a common complaint among new nursing mothers, according to BabyCenter. A few seconds of initial pain as the baby latches is normal. But pain throughout the session is not. Sore nipples are most often caused by improper positioning, a bad latch or prolonged time at the breast when baby is not actively nursing. A latch issue can be corrected by ensuring that the baby takes in enough of the areola of the breast. When he's done nursing, put your little finger in the corner of his mouth to break the suction and ease him off the breast. Before you start nursing, gently massage your breast to promote letdown and ensure that the baby gets milk right away. BabyCenter also advises mom to wear breast shields, wipe expressed breast milk on her nipples and use over-the-counter pain medication when necessary.
Holding Baby
The most common hold for nursing is the cradle. Mom cradles the baby across her chest and abdomen and holds him to the breast. La Leche League suggests positioning baby on his side, supporting his back and pulling him close. If this hold does not work, La Leche League suggests several alternatives. The football hold is recommended for mothers who have delivered by cesarean section because it keeps baby's weight off the incision. Mom holds the baby on his back like a football, supports his back with her forearm, and pulls him close. The side-lying hold allows the mother and baby to lie down next to each other to nurse.
