1. Breast Is Best
Breast milk is the perfect food for babies. The benefits of breastfeeding are countless. Breastfeeding is convenient and inexpensive (free!) compared to the costs of formula feeding. One of the biggest benefits is that breast milk boosts your child's immune system, protecting them from illness. A baby's brainpower increases by breastfeeding as well. Studies show breastfed babies have a higher IQ than babies who aren't breastfed.
2. Latch On
A good latch ensures that the baby is getting plenty of milk. Your baby's lips cover the areola, not just the tip of your nipple. She should have about an inch of your nipple in her mouth. How can you tell if your baby is latching on correctly? Your nipples don't hurt when your baby latches on correctly. If you struggle to get a good latch, see a lactation consultant who can work with you and your baby to perfect your technique.
3. Breastfeeding Is Good for Mom, Too
Breastfeeding can be a bit uncomfortable in the beginning. There's a learning curve to trying anything new, and breastfeeding your baby is no exception. However, there are substantial benefits that directly affect the breastfeeding mother. Women who breastfeed for at least a year lower their risk of breast, uterine and ovarian cancer by as much as 25 percent. Breastfeeding also helps prevent osteoporosis. Women who don't breastfeed have four times the risk of developing osteoporosis and are more likely to break a hip than women who do breastfeed. All this on top of the fact that breastfeeding helps you lose that pregnancy weight faster.
4. Got More Milk?
If your baby isn't gaining weight quickly enough, you might need to work on increasing your milk supply. The best way to do this is to nurse as frequently as possible. Offer the breast to your baby on demand, allowing him to feed around the clock. Breast milk is a supply and demand situation. Your body produces more milk as your breasts empty, so keep your baby on the breast frequently for a few days to see an increase in your supply. Pumping in between feeding sessions helps, too.
5. Would You Eat in a Bathroom?
Breastfeeding your baby while you're out in public becomes a necessity at times. There are ways to be discreet with breastfeeding without having to find a public restroom to feed your baby in. Wear a loose top that will be easy to lift up. Have a blanket handy to snuggle up around your baby and your midsection if it's exposed. You only have to expose your breast for a very short amount of time to get your baby latched on before you can allow your shirt to cover everything back up again. You can use a lightweight blanket to drape over your shoulder and the baby for complete coverage if it makes you more comfortable.
