Breastfeeding is the natural and best way to feed your newborn, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Breastfeeding your newborn immediately after birth is recommended to establish a successful feeding connection with you and your baby. However, if you deliver your baby by C-section, this connection may be delayed. Although you may face difficulties after a cesarean birth, you can still succeed in breastfeeding your baby.
C-Section
C-section is a major abdominal surgery that is done under local or general anesthesia. Your doctor will make an incision to your abdomen, your abdominal muscles will be separated and another incision will be done to your uterus to deliver your baby. If you have local anesthesia, you can hear and see your baby immediately after birth. However, you typically have to wait until you are in the recovery room until you can hold your baby. You may be given medication to ease the pain and antibiotics to help prevent infection. The first few days after the surgery may be painful, which will affect your ability to move and hold your baby.
Breastfeeding Problems
If both you and your baby are feeling well and there are no concerns or complications, you can usually hold your baby very soon after cesarean birth. This is optimal to get you and your baby started with breastfeeding; your newborn is alert and ready to suck. However, if you are tired or need to recover from the general anesthesia, or if your baby has to stay in the nursery for a longer period of time, you may face delays and challenges to establishing breastfeeding. Once you finally hold your baby, she may be tired and not ready to nurse. Cesarean section can also delay the start of your milk production and lessen the amount of colostrum or milk available.
Breastfeeding Positions
You may experience pain, even with pain medication, and difficulty moving and holding your baby after a C-section. Experiment to find a breastfeeding position that is comfortable for you. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that you breastfeed by lying on your side with your baby facing you. Use pillows to help support your baby and to protect your incision. A position called "football hold" is another position you can use. Tuck your baby under your arm as if you are holding a football so that she is facing you at the level of your waist. Support your baby's back with your upper arm and hold her head with your hand to position baby at your breast.
Considerations
Despite certain difficulties, mothers who deliver by C-section are as successful in breastfeeding as mothers who deliver vaginally, according to AskDrSears.com. Many hospitals have lactation consultants on staff to help new mothers establish breastfeeding; ask to speak to one if you have any questions or concerns. All mothers may experience difficulties with breastfeeding in the beginning, regardless of how they delivered, but practice and assistance can help.
References
- "Your Pregnancy and Birth"; The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; 2005
- MayoClinic.com; C-section; November 2010
- American Pregnancy Association: Cesarean Procedure
- AskDrSears.com; Breastfeeding After Cesarean Section
