The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding your infant for at least one year, with the first six months being exclusively breast milk. The benefits of breastfeeding include easier digestion, convenience, disease protection and nutritional content. Breastfeeding during the newborn stage presents a challenge to many mothers who are often sleep deprived and overwhelmed with the new responsibilities of motherhood.
Commit to Breastfeeding
Deciding that you are going to stick to breastfeeding before your baby is born makes you more likely to follow through after giving birth. With all of the changes, both emotionally and hormonally, associated with childbirth learning to breastfeed adds more complexity for you. If you go into the birth knowing you are going to breastfeed, you may be more persistent if breastfeeding is initially a challenge.
Seek Support
Finding support improves your chances of successfully breastfeeding your newborn. The hospital lactation consultant helps you get started with nursing as soon as your baby is born. Even after you leave the hospital, contact the lactation consultant if you need support. Local breastfeeding support groups or organizations like La Leche League provide regular support as you continue breastfeeding your baby. Supportive family and friends make it easier to breastfeed on a daily basis. Express the importance of breastfeeding and give your family ideas for supporting you.
Try Different Positions
Part of effective breastfeeding with your newborn involves the positioning of the baby. A cradle hold may work perfectly for one mother, while another finds it uncomfortable or difficult to use with her baby. Try different positions until you find one that works best for you and your baby. If a holding position doesn't feel comfortable, try lying down next to your baby, facing toward each other for nursing.
Feed on Demand
Feeding your newborn on demand ensures she gets enough food and allows her to establish her own eating schedule. A typical newborn breastfeeds between eight and 12 times each day, according to MayoClinic.com. Catch your baby's signs of hunger before he gets overly hungry. Early signs may include stretching, sucking actions or other lip movements. If you wait too long he may become fussy and have more difficulty calming down to eat. A breastfeeding session typically lasts between 10 and 20 minutes per breast. Your newborn will alter you that he is full by turning away from the breast or no longer sucking. Follow the signs your baby offers to successfully feed on demand.
Be Flexible
A newborn's eating patterns change frequently, according to MayoClinic.com. Be prepared for the changing habits so you don't become frustrated with your newborn. Growth spurts cause newborns to eat more or nurse more frequently than normal. Paying attention to your baby's signs helps you determine when he needs to eat so you can accommodate these fluctuations in dietary need. If you are concerned with a change in your baby's eating habits, consult his pediatrician.
