Breastfeeding is a natural process causing problems for many women. It is possible for the baby to latch on easily, although if it does not happen immediately after birth, there are other ways to breastfeed your newborn. You may just need some help. Consult a specialist in breastfeeding and try the following modern accessories to help you overcome any challenges during lactation.
1. Painful nipples – silicone protectors
There is a common belief that breastfeeding should not be painful, still many women experience breast pain, more precisely nipple pain when they start the breastfeeding process. An ideal solution is to keep the baby in the correct position: his/her mouth has to surround the whole areola, not just the nipple. A silicone protector applied on the sore nipple can make you feel more comfortable, thus you will be encouraged to continue breastfeeding your child.
2. Not sure your baby feeds enough – baby scale
Immediately after birth, a new mother can feel stressed and unsure about what she must do. The biggest worry is not being certain if the newborn feeds enough or if the breast milk is rich enough for the child’s growth and health. A baby scale can clearly prove if the child gains weight, even if breast milk is their only form of nutrition.
3. Inverted nipples – silicone nipple corrector
Every woman is different and so are their breasts. There are cases when new Moms with inverted or flat nipples will experience a burdensome breastfeeding process, at least at the beginning. However modern science is extremely helpful for all women who are willing to breastfeed their children as long as possible, proving various products – such as silicone nipple correctors. These should be applied at least half an hour before the breastfeeding session, then removed. A silicone nipple corrector will stimulate the nipple for utmost naturalness so it can be grabbed by the baby’s mouth.
4.Sore nipples and cracked skin – lanolin cream
Sometimes the baby is not attached correctly to the breast, the pump is used incorrectly or a woman’s nipples are simply sensitive. The results are sore nipples and cracked skin, which may constitute a new challenge for the new Mom over the breastfeeding process. Other factors that could cause this problem are dry skin, eczema or allergies to certain ingredients found in body care products. In order to prevent the breast tissue from inflammation, a lanolin cream should be used after every feed. There are many products created for breast care during the breastfeeding period. These can be found in pharmacies and are completely safe for the baby’s health.
5. Backaches – nursing pillow
During the first months, the feeding sessions occur on demand, namely at least once in two hours. This puts a lot of pressure on a mom’s back. The first weeks postpartum is the time when your body recovers, especially if you had a C-section. The nursing pillow is a must-have in this case. It allows the mother to relax providing neck and back support and facilitates placing the baby in a correct and comfortable position.
6. Engorged breasts – breast pump
Overabundant milk supply and a less hungry baby can cause engorged breasts. As a result, the mother may experience breast swelling, pain and pressure. In this case, she has to express after every feeding.
Engorged breasts may facilitate milk build-up and inflammation in your breast tissues, leading to mastitis, a painful affection producing a lot of discomforts. Ablactation is often recommended and in some cases, surgery may be necessary. The breast pump is useful for expression and for keeping the milk in the fridge so it can be used to feed the baby. This way a mother can give her child breast milk even when she is not near him. You have the possibility to choose between electric and manual breast pumps, according to preference.
7. Breast milk leakage – breast protection pads
Breastfeeding is a magical process. Research shows that babies who are fed only breast milk benefit from a long-lasting active immunity. Still, a mother may experience difficulties during lactation. Her body will develop a certain sensitivity related to the process of breastfeeding resulting in milk leakage. Breast pads represent a simple solution to prevent staining your clothes. These products are easy to find in stores and come at reasonable prices. Moreover, there are silicone breast protection pads which look barely invisible. These are ideal even for fancy dress.
8. Breast pain – temperature pack
When experiencing breast pain you can use a special compress to adjust the temperature around the chest area. The compress is, in fact, a breast pad made of silicone and filled with gel. It can be used warm, before breastfeeding, to facilitate milk flow, or cold, recommended after breastfeeding and expression to reduce swelling and relax the breast. The temperature pack may be left on during feeding due to its special shape that allows the nipple and areola to stay uncovered.
9. Low milk supply – mother’s milk tea
Milk-boosting is extremely important for new mothers who deal with a low milk supply. It is essential to consult with a specialist about the best natural methods you can use for a proper lactation. Fenugreek tea is a good product that will not change the taste of your milk. Herbal tea contains active substances that are beneficial for the baby’s digestive system, calming grips and cramps.
10.Breastfeeding in public – nursing bra
Women who breastfeed in public may be admired or judged. Everybody is entitled to have an opinion but if you feel embarrassed to feed your child in public and you need to do it at times, consider purchasing a nursing bra. It will allow you to easily access the breast and leave the child latch on. Eventually, you can cover your child’s head to completely hide the scene from passers-by.
Breastfeeding is the healthiest option for babies. All the above products, along much more available on the market can help boost your confidence and facilitate dealing with any issues that may appear ahead with the breastfeeding period.
What products have you used during breastfeeding?
