Breastfeeding
With each baby in the family, we have always opted to go to a lactation consultation because you never know what you will learn. I think it’s important to make time to go to the appointments with your partner to at least show support and also to be sure to help ask any questions (and remember the answers!) so that everything is covered.
This week, we went to an especially helpful lactation consultation session with someone that seemed both warm and knowledgeable. After breastfeeding the other two babies in the family, we felt like we had a pretty good grasp on things, but still learned some new techniques for more efficient feedings and to reduce pain.
(this is not medical advice, please always consult a doctor or medical professional)
One of the techniques emphasized leading the baby to the breast tissue chin first instead of straight to the breast. When leading chin first, they can get a better, more comfortable latch on the breast vs. just getting a latch on the nipple when leading nose first to the breast. In the first week of life, the baby’s mouth is very small, so you have to help position the approach to maximize the chance of a successful latch (with reduced pain).
Another technique that we learned was to ensure that you are compressing the breast in the same angle as the baby’s mouth. For example, if the baby’s mouth is completely vertical, your fingers need to also compress the breast (particularly around the nipple area) vertically so the baby can latch more successfully to the breast tissue instead of just the nipple. If you compress the breast horizontally while the baby’s mouth is coming in vertically, your fingers will get in the way and you also make the breast tissue area harder to latch on to since it is bulging in the wrong areas (and compressed in the wrong areas). With this technique, it helps maximize the chance of a successful latch because (you guessed it!) it is the baby’s first week of life and their mouth is very small.
Other more routine advice is to block feed, meaning to switch the baby on to the other breast after each feeding to give one side a break. You can also use cold cabbage leaves and ointment (please check with your doctor or medical professional on what is recommended for you) to promote healing between feedings. Make sure you wipe off any ointment or any products before the baby starts to feed and take good care of yourself (so you can take care of the baby!).
Sometimes I feel out of place and/or helpless during anything related to breastfeeding since I am not the one doing the feedings, but I try to show up to lend any support while also asking my wife if she needs anything (mainly it’s water, crackers, or cheese!). There is always a way to help and you just have to play your role on the team!
Breastfeeding is not easy and hopefully these tips help someone out! Hang in there!
