Any advice for starting to breastfeed?

misses625

This is my second child, however, I had so much trouble bfing DS that I gave up after a few weeks.  I didn't take any classes and didn't know where to go for help.  This time, I've taken classes and done my research.  BUT, what advice can you give me for the first few weeks?  I know it's difficult at first.

NHMountainBride

The only advice I can think of is to nurse, nurse, nurse!  DD was pretty much attached for the first month or so.  She would often nurse for two hours at a time, and then want to nurse again 15 minutes later!  I thought I was doing something wrong, but later learned that this is completely normal.  I imagine it will be difficult with a 2 year old to care for, but I'm sure you can do it!  It's so important to establish your supply in the beginning by nursing on demand, and then it gets a little easier after about a month or so.  GL to you!  I hope it works out!  It really is a great experience once you get through the first month or so!

Cyrbia

I too had a horrible time with my first. I did get the hang of it though thanks to an excellent lactation consultant that helped me out before I left the hospital.

She suggested using a nipple sheild for the first while. (my nipples were pretty small). She also suggested to pump after every attempt at feeding DS. This way I could at least bottle feed the breast milk while DS was getting used to breast feeding.

Good luck.

luna62

Don't stress yourself out.  I got really stressed at first about positioning, latching, etc. and I think I made LO crazy too.  Just try to relax.   That's my best advice.