Since we have already had the pleasure of introducing you to Bella Bambino Care, the newborn care center, now we are going to get into some of the services they offer postpartum moms and newborns. This week we are going to cover the hot topic of breastfeeding. But first, I’d like to just say that no matter how you feed your baby, you’re a good mom. And Bella Bambino agrees. They see patients that both breast feed and bottle feed. So this is in no way a post trying to convince you to breastfeed, it’s just offering some information for those who want to learn more.
The first few days can really set you and your newborn up for breastfeeding success. Getting off to a good start leads to a healthy breastmilk supply, fewer breast issues for you and a content, happy and healthy baby. It could also lead to a longer duration of breastfeeding.
After your little bundle of joy is born, have him lay on your skin. Their belly down, on your bare skin, is best. Skin-to-skin contact has an abundance of benefits, with one being it allows the newborn to smell their mothers milk. There are some newborns that will instinctively start crawling up to their mothers breast and begin nursing. However, it’s not always that easy and some newborns need a little help. But if you are able to have a full hour of skin-to-skin with your newborn, it can lead you to a very successful breastfeeding journey.
When you first breastfeed your newborn, it’s very helpful to have a nurse, doctor, midwife, doula or lactation professional check and make sure your baby’s latching correctly. A proper latch from the beginning is one of the keys to having a successful breastfeeding journey. A correct latch ensures that your newborn is able to draw all the milk out, which then sends a signal to your body to make a healthy supply of breastmilk. A good latch is also a benefit because it prevents some of the common problems that can come with breastfeeding. These problems are often painful so we want to avoid that at all cost.
In those first few days, it’s important to nurse your newborn on demand. Meaning, whenever they show signs of hunger, let them nurse. Usually that means ever 2 – 3 hours throughout the day and night. Seems like a lot, we know. These frequent feedings will ensure that your body is able to produce a healthy supply of breastmilk. Frequent feedings can also help prevent some problems that newborns encounter such as jaundice and low blood sugar.
Lastly, those first few days, keep your newborn with you as much as possible. If you deliver in a hospital, most encourage rooming-in. Now, we understand that a nap could be needed so don’t think you have to have your newborn attached to you at all times. Rooming-in is really about being able to do skin-to-skin as much as possible, being able to nurse on demand and creating that bond that will last a lifetime.
Like in most things in life, if your prepare for success, you’re halfway there. Scheduling a consult with Bella Bambino 1-2 days after discharge is a great way to build confidence in breastfeeding, as well as to identify, and tackle, any early problems.If you are determined to breastfeed your newborn, set yourself up for success with these tips. Breastfeeding looks so different for everyone, it even looks different whether it’s your first or third child! Try to give yourself some grace, stay calm and know that you were chosen to be your little peanut’s mother for a reason. And know that we are here to help you, support your and encourage you. We want you to succeed and we love and are humbled to be a part of your journey. Contact Bella Bambino Care – 706-922-0760 and we’ll be with you and your newborn every step of the way!
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