We’re always advocating healthy breast and bottle feeding techniques and lifestyles, and we still want women to feel empowered through their breastfeeding journey if that is the path they choose. A strong support system is the first step and a good understanding of the process is the second.
If you’re considering breastfeeding, it’s important to know the good and the bad.
Wait, so you just have random breast milk leaks throughout the day? Yeah.
There’s a learning curve when it comes to nursing pads and before long, you’ll be a stain-removing laundry master. Leaks are actually a good thing, it means lactation is going right on schedule. Oxytocin is the hormone released when you’re happy, around your baby or even stimulated and it happens to be the biggest culprit for sporadic leaks throughout the day. If you’re out and about, choose to wear prints and bring a change of clothes just in case you get some surprises.
Your breast milk is transferring nutrients to your babies and antibodies to build up their immune system. What can also be sent through breastfeeding is some serious allergic reactions to the foods you eat. Certain foods will cause your baby to break out in hives or other symptoms. It limits the food and drinks you can take in, just when you thought you could go back to eating all the foods you’ve been deprived of throughout pregnancy…think again.
What every mother doesn’t want to hear is the possibility that their breasts won’t bounce back after breastfeeding. Not everyone’s body is the same and only some women experience changes in breast shape, but it can absolutely happen. Some breastfeeding specialists recommend nursing from each breast regularly and nursing from a comfortable position that works for you. Luckily there are some exercises that can give you some of your perk back.
The first few weeks can be tough on the dainty parts of any new mom. Some babies take to the breast and others will just be difficult. Before you get the hang of it, nursing can be painful when breasts become engorged or nipples get irritated. If you’re experiencing cracked nipples, massaging some breast milk onto them can be a huge relief. Ice packs, a supportive nursing bra and your trusty breast pump will be your best friend.
Your postpartum doulas can help support you as you start your breastfeeding journey and help you find resources and products to make the process as comfortable as possible.