Most important info to start bf

Babies_Bellies_Boobies · 09-03-2006, 03:48 PM

i would approach the topic well before labor.

then once you are certain that the mom will be nursing, make sure to mention how important it is to get thigns started asap.

rigfht after thye birth when baby is alert is a wonderufl time to tr to get things started.

mom *may* need some help with positioning, ESPECIALLY if it is her first baby, or first time nursing.

the tother main thign is to rmeind the new mom that the first few days while getting thigns established to not worry about housework etc, her main *job* is to feed the baby. if the other parent can help with other aspects (diapering etc) it can free up a few minutes for mom to potty, shower etc. also, if they can make sure that the mom always has plenty of water to drink without having to get up to get it herself, that can be a big help. quick snacks are goodtoo (crackers and cheese or peanut butter, or some pre-cut fruit are all handy to snakc on while nursing.)

syncreo · 09-03-2006, 07:23 PM

Hi,
I think it is always nice to give a woman a little bit of time to start breastfeeding on her how before I step in and give advice or help with positioning. Usually our last prenatal visit is spent on breastfeeding, we discuss why it is important, watch Jack Newman's breastfeeding video, practise positions and I constantly remind her that just like giving birth, her and her baby were meant to breastfeed and they can do this.

That is why I like to give them the chance to try it on their own first - it is amazing how many women and babies get it fairly quickly. Sometimes I need to readjust position and latch but I think it is really empowering for women to be able to do it on their own. It also sends the message that I believe in them and that I know they can do this. If they need support then I offer some suggestions that they can try, if they still need more support and want some hands on help I will do that next. I also always tell them to call me, call me, call me if they have any problems.

Hope that helps.
Cheers, Shawna

jkapheim · 09-03-2006, 08:33 PM

In my experience (3 births) the nurse or midwife really helped at first.

My first client was a teen mom and I remember really helping her get situated and comfortable.

Don't be afraid to get hands on here. I watched Jack Newmans clips on his website and it gave me a great bit of insight.

Second client she also did well despite the fact she had been given Phenagren (sp?) for nausea and her midwife stayed for nearly a half hour getting baby latched on while mom was passed out asleep. I felt almost like we were taking advantage of her.

My third was a second time mom, had nursed for the first year with older son. And she kinda did her own thing I reminded her that it would still take a little bit of time for the new baby to learn the ropes.

The biggest think I have had to deal with (and my first two clients did not pay me. one was OSD and the other afriend from church) is not feeling personally responsible when the nursing doesn't continue. Just today at church mom made a comment that baby spent the night away when he was just 3-5 days old. I was kinda devastated and I remember visiting the first after a week or so and I was sad that there was a bottle on the table.

Moms are responsible for calling if they need additional help after they leave the hospital and I always give them local resources ie, support groups and lactation consultants in the area.

Good Luck to you and just the fact that you care to find out more is a great step forward every day is a chance to learn more. Also ask mom's what helped them to keep going/get started. Share some info with us when you get it

Ceci · 09-03-2006, 09:27 PM

syncreo · 09-05-2006, 08:55 AM

Cecilia,
It is tough not to take it personally when moms decide to give their children human milk substitutes but we can only do our best to inform and support them and ultimately they make their own choices. We can check in with them but ultimately it is up to them to contact us if they need help.

Sounds like you did a great job. One thing I like to do is explain ahead of time why their baby may like sucking on a bottle better than breastfeeding (easier flow, no need to work as hard etc) and advise them that this is why they should avoid giving a bottle if they want breastfeeding to be successful. This way they don't fall into the trap of thinking that their babies prefering the bottle is a good thing. Of course it doesn't always mean they listen to me...I have had more then a few moms choose to give their baby human milk substitutes :-( but like I said, we can only do our best and ultimately it is up to them.

Cheers,
Shawna

earthgirl · 09-05-2006, 09:41 AM

I usually discuss most things at prenatal visits (I stress the importance of BF classes), and give them resources to educate themselves as well as referrals to the lactation professionals. I make sure they know my own limitations in this area. After birth I give them some time, and focus on proper latching, and positioning (trying different ones to see what works better for them), but I don't stand over them because I don't want them to feel performance anxiety. I think it's easier if they are alone together skin to skin. I always tell them that it may take some practice before it feels "natural", and not to give up. Always ask for help before giving in to the bottle, and I mention the sucking difference, so an eye dropper would be preferable to a bottle. I also stress how their bodies were capable of giving birth, and so they are just as capable of nourishing their babies. When I call in the next few days, my second question is usually "how's the breastfeeding going?", then I go from there.

earthgirl · 09-05-2006, 09:44 AM

It may be out of print, but one of my favorite books by Ina May Gaskin is Babies, Breastfeeding & Bonding. It has a great personal feel to it, and just makes me want to breastfeed!

Stacie · 09-05-2006, 01:27 PM