Top 10 Tips For Successful Breastfeeding
1.Watch your baby not the clock (look for the baby’s cues like smacking lips together, turning head side to side, rooting, sucking hands…). Latching is easier if baby is calm!
2. Get comfy! A breastfeeding box of goodies can be really handy! Include a bottle of water (with a straw), TV remotes, phone (and charger), snack, magazines, books.
3. When latching…think CHINS!
4. Bringing baby to the breast chin first can result in a more comfy feed and can help prevent those little hands getting in the way.
5. Don’t be afraid to experiment with lots of different positions!
6. Be patient. It’s tempting when your baby fusses to accept any old latch but waiting for your baby to open their mouth widely first can mean a more comfortable feed.
7. If you need to unlatch baby, pop your clean pinky finger in the corner of their mouth to unlatch them.
8. Free the hands! It’s tempting to pop scratch mitts on your baby but new-borns rely on all their senses to be able to breastfeed, including their hands.
9. Skin to skin is magical if your baby is unsettled and even boosts your milk supply.
10. Seek support if you need it!