5 Steps to Infant Feeding Success

 

Breastfeeding is natural but that doesn’t mean it comes naturally. The best thing you can do to safe guard your breastfeeding success is to prepare and educate yourself. You and your baby are going to be learning a new skill together. With the right preparation and support, and a little luck, you’ve totally got this!

Recognize When Your Baby is Hungry

 

Baby’s communicate both verbally, by crying, and non-verbally. Over time you will learn to understand your baby’s language and anticipate his needs. This may take some practise.

It’s ideal to notice when your baby is in the early stages of hunger. Babies feed better and will latch onto the breast or take the bottle with less fussing if you offer it when they are interested but not yet upset or crying.

When they are hungry babies may:

• Smack their lips
• Put their hands to their mouth
• Suck on their hands
• Root around (rooting reflex) ( https://www.healthychildren.org/English/ages-stages/baby/Pages/Newborn-Reflexes.aspx)
• Crying

Sooth First, Feed Second

 

If your baby is already crying, it can be helpful to sooth him first. Calming him down, even a little bit, will allow him to get a better latch and swallow less air.

That said, it’s an easier said than done concept. Ideally you will watch for the cues mentioned above and feed your baby before they become upset and giving yourself more time to ensure a proper latch and that both of you are comfortable. Which brings us to our next suggestion:

Get Comfortable

 

Hold your baby during feeds, even when giving a bottle. Be sure to get comfortable, using a feeding support pillow (https://www.thebump.com/a/best-nursing-pillows) can be very helpful. They’re not just for breastfeeding! Try to avoid hunching over, use pillows to lift the baby to a comfortable position instead. All the better if you can get some one to bring you a glass of water or a snack so that you stay nourished, too!

Know When Enough is Enough

 

Sometimes your baby will eat for longer periods of time and other times your baby will only eat for a few minutes. Your baby will tell you he is full by:

• Turning his head away from the bottle or breast
• Letting the nipple fall out or pushing it out of his mouth
• Being alert with no further feeding cues
• Spontaneously falling asleep

Some babies are efficient eaters, so if your baby is finished in less time than your doula, doctor, or lactation consultant has suggested but their output (number of wet and dirty diapers) is good and they are gaining weight, you have nothing to worry about.

Relax!

 

Your baby is safe. Your baby will get enough. You’re doing a great job.

Remember: One wet diaper per day of life for those first few days, then 6-8 wet diapers each day. If you are concerned that your baby is not getting enough, talk to your postpartum doula, lactation expert, doctor, or midwife.