Nursing your baby? The physicians at Athens ObGyn have some helpful breastfeeding tips

You tell yourself that nursing your baby should come naturally, but many women need advice and help. Breastfeeding tips from our physicians provide the advice you need as you begin nursing. The physicians and staff at Athens ObGyn also encourage you to ask for help at your appointments or call us any time you have questions. You aren’t alone on this journey. We want to help you succeed.

Finding the best position for nursing your baby

You need to be comfortable so that you can relax and feed your baby. Here are some tips.

• Find ways to support your arms, back and your baby. Pillows work well. It’s also nice to prop your feet up.
• Put your baby close to your breast with his mouth facing your nipple, hips flexed so he doesn’t have to turn his head to nurse.
• If you feel pain or discomfort, try a different position.

Helping your baby achieve a good latch

After you give birth, you receive breastfeeding tips and help at the hospital, but later you may have difficulty getting your baby to latch on. Once you have found a comfortable nursing position, here are some ideas that may help with the latch.

• Try nursing the baby skin-to-skin to encourage the nursing reflex.
• Support your baby’s head and let her chin hit against your breast and place your baby’s lips near your nipple. Both of these things encourage her to open her mouth.
• If your baby isn’t latching well or seems to have a weak sucking motion, talk to one of the physicians at Athens ObGyn.

Self-care breastfeeding tips

Of all the breastfeeding tips you receive, this one is the most important: Take care of yourself!

• Stay hydrated by drinking water, milk or juice. Try to limit your caffeine and soda intake.
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet consisting of whole grains, lean protein, fruits and veggies.
• Don’t limit your calorie intake while nursing. Your body needs approximately 2,500 calories per day.
• Try to relax and ask for help if you need it.
• Sleep whenever you can.
• Talk to the physicians at Athens ObGyn about birth control options because breastfeeding is not a reliable form of contraception.

Be nice to yourself and know that you are doing your best for your baby. Contact us for an appointment or if you have questions.