1. Setting the Scene
With just a little effort, breastfeeding can be relaxing, Make sure you're comfortable and alone for at least the first week while you get used to nursing. If you're breastfeeding while sitting, be sure to choose a comfortable chair with good back support and arm rests. A rocking chair often works well. If you're breastfeeding while lying down, make sure you have as many pillows as you need to be comfortable.
2. The Let-Down Reflex
The let-down reflex is the process that gets your milk flowing. It's caused by a release of oxytocin triggered by the suckling of your baby. For the first few feedings and as your body gets used to breastfeeding, it may take several minutes for this reflex to kick in. This delay is normal and as your body gets used to nursing, your let-down reflex will become faster. You may not feel this reflex at first, but you'll probably feel some cramping and contracting in your uterus. This feeling also is normal and helps your uterus shrink to its pre-pregnancy size. Later, the let-down reflex might feel like a slight tingling, or you may feel a lot of pressure that'll make your breasts feel very heavy.
3. Prevent or Stop Nipple Pain
Breastfeeding isn't supposed to hurt. If it does, then your baby isn't latched on to the nipple the right way. Perhaps you're not holding your baby in the best position for you. Proper latch-on and proper positioning take practice, so don't be frustrated if it doesn't work perfectly for you the first time. Whatever position you use, make sure your baby is level with your breast. You know you're in the right position if your nipple is between her nose and mouth. Tickle her lower lip with your nipple and wait for her to open her mouth wide like she's yawning. Bring her to your breast and position your nipple and as much of the areola in her mouth. Her lips should be flanged (turned back).
4. We Must, We Must Decrease Our Bust
When your milk comes in, your breasts will become engorged and will get much bigger than normal. They might also be sore. Regular breastfeeding will relieve the engorgement. You can also use a pump to express just enough milk to relieve the pressure. Placing cold packs on your breasts between feedings can also help the pressure, so can cold cabbage leaves. Just be careful not to use the leaves and packs so much that you reduce your milk supply.
5. Take Care of Yourself
Get rest when you can. which usually means sleeping when your baby sleeps. Eat enough food. Try follow a diet with about 2,200 to 2,700 calories a day with healthy, well-balanced meals rich in vegetables, fruits, grains, proteins and dairy. Keep yourself hydrated and drink lots of water.
