I'm sure as a breastfeeding mother reading this, you may have heard at least one of these statements below about breastfeeding. They can actually be a hindrance more than a help!
- Feed every 2/3 hours. Some newborns may feed up to every hour or even 30 mins after birth. This can lead women to think they have supply issues. When this is very normal.
- Never sleep with your baby. Co-sleeping/bed-sharing comes hand in hand with breastfeeding. It’s almost impossible not to.
- Avoid feeding to sleep. If it works for you feed to sleep. Breastmilk contains hormones that help your baby feel drowsy and encourage a quick send-off to sleep!
- Put your baby down after a feed. There are no rules! Cuddle your baby and hold your baby for as long as you want. Bonding is important. It does not make them spoilt or needy! Just secure as nature intended.
- Feed for 15 mins on each side. Stop watching the clock. Empty your breasts on both sides just for your comfort, and to encourage supply on each side. It doesn’t have to be timed at all.
You learn from experience. The guidelines are great. But there are no rules. When I started out on my breastfeeding journey I felt like I was given all these rules, that just didn't quite work in reality. As long as your baby is regularly fed, safe and warm, at the end of the day do what’s best for you and your baby.
Make informed decisions. Question things when they don’t feel just right. Have you heard any breastfeeding myths or misinformation? Comment below ⬇️
Extra detailed sources
https://www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk/
https://abm.me.uk/breastfeeding-information/
Comments
Post a Comment