Breastfeeding your newborn can be one of the scariest things for new moms. You may be asking, “how do I establish a good breastfeeding routine?” or something along those lines.
Thankfully, there are lots of experienced moms to rely on for advice. We spoke to six moms from around the country to gather the best advice on breastfeeding your newborn.
Nervous about breastfeeding? Keep reading for tips from real moms!
Newborns Eat a Ton
“Don’t be shocked by your little one’s eating habits. It’s totally normal for a newborn to feed up to 12 times in 24 hours. Over time, you and your baby will settle into a routine and breastfeeding will seem like a breeze, I promise!” – Francesca, mum of 4 in Fredericksburg, TX
Start Breastfeeding Right Away
“Newborns have a super-strong urge to suckle and eat in the first few hours after they’re born. Plus, your hormones during this time will encourage breastfeeding, so these first few moments are a great place to start.” – Misty, mum of 3 in Pensacola, FL
Trust the Natural Process
“A few days after having my baby, my breasts started to feel really heavy. It honestly felt like it happened overnight. But after feeding my baby the first few times, I got more comfortable with breastfeeding and my body adjusted.” – Ebony, mum of 2 in Savannah, GA
Set the Mood
“Every newborn is different, but I found that my son had the best feedings in our den – a dimly lit room with minimal noise from outside. When feeding in public, I always tried to recreate that environment to make him more comfortable.” Amel, mum of 1 in Bakersfield, CA
Treat Nipples with Care
“While breastfeeding, you’ll definitely need lots of nipple cream. By my second baby, I realized it’s best to use preventatively before your nipples become cracked and dry. Just make sure to pick a nipple cream that’s safe to ingest for your baby.” – Casey, mum of 2 in Boise, ID
Don’t stress out
“Babies can feel when you’re stressed and that won’t help anyone. Don’t get too caught up in a strict feeding schedule and try to enjoy the experience. As long as your newborn is eating, that’s really all that matters!” – Christina, mum of 5 in Tempe, AZ
Conclusion
Breastfeeding newborns can be a big challenge, but you’ll be a pro before you know it! Keep in mind that every mum and baby are different, and, at the end of the day, fed is truly best.