For many people, there are concerns and worries about specific aspects of breastfeeding. It’s important to remember that there are no stupid questions when it comes to caring for your child. Don’t be afraid to ask your healthcare provider all of your questions. It’s best that you get the correct information before you make important decisions about breastfeeding. Some common questions and answers include:
Are my breasts too small to breastfeed?
Breast size doesn’t affect your ability to breastfeed. The amount of milk your breasts make will depend on your overall health and how much your baby eats, not how big your breasts are.
Will breastfeeding hurt?
- Breastfeeding should not hurt if your baby is latched onto your breast well.
- Your healthcare provider or lactation consultant can help you learn how to hold your baby when you breastfeed for the first time. Your breasts might be tender the first few days, but this soreness should go away as you continue to breastfeed.
Is breastfeeding hard to do?
Breastfeeding is a learned skill and takes practice, but the health benefits you gain for you and your baby are worth it. Help with breastfeeding is available. There are many ways for you to learn about breastfeeding. Many hospitals offer breastfeeding classes that you can attend during pregnancy. In most cases, nurses and lactation consultants are also available to give you information and support. Talking to other breastfeeding people might be helpful and make you feel more comfortable.
How do I breastfeed if I’m shy and worry that it will be embarrassing?
If you’re shy, there are several ways you can still breastfeed and feel comfortable. You can choose to feed your baby in private. Or, you can breastfeed in front of others without them seeing anything. You can wear shirts that pull up from the bottom, just enough for your baby to reach your breast. You can put a blanket over your shoulder or around your baby so no one can see your breast.
Do I have to drink milk if I choose to breastfeed?
No, you don’t have to drink milk to make breast milk. Other sources of calcium-rich foods include yogurt, cheese, tofu, salmon, almonds, calcium-enriched fruit juice, leafy green vegetables, broccoli, and dried beans and peas. Eat four servings of calcium-rich foods every day to provide proper nutrition for you and your baby. You can also ask your provider about calcium and vitamin D supplements.
What if I need to go out?
If you can take your baby with you, your baby can eat when they are hungry. If you need to be away from your baby, you can pump or “express” your milk and refrigerate it so that someone else can feed your baby from a bottle.
How can I breastfeed when I go back to work?
When you return to work, you can learn to pump or “express” your milk and refrigerate or freeze it so that someone else can feed your milk to your baby while you’re at work. Often, your place of work will have a private space set aside for you to pump.
Will breastfeeding take too much time?
Feeding your baby takes time, no matter which method you choose. If breastfeeding takes a very long time for you it may be helpful to pump your milk and bottle feed it to your baby. You should talk to your provider or lactation consultant if this is a concern.
Are there any foods or drinks that I should avoid while breastfeeding?
While breastfeeding, be mindful of your diet. Limit caffeine to 200mg daily and avoid it before feedings. Drink alcohol in moderation, waiting at least two hours before nursing. Quit smoking, as secondhand smoke harms your baby and can reduce milk supply.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the decision to breastfeed is personal and multifaceted. Understanding the benefits of breastfeeding equips parents to make informed choices that align with their circumstances and priorities. Always consult with healthcare professionals for guidance tailored to your specific needs and circumstances. Enroll in our free lactation webinar to understand more about the advantages and challenges of breastfeeding.