Breastfeeding is by no means an easy feat, and for first time mothers, there’s a lot of trial and error involved in making sure that your child is well attached so that they can drink breast milk properly. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to make things a little bit easier.
Step 1:
Make sure that both you and your baby are calm and relaxed. This will make breastfeeding comfortable and easy for both you and your baby.
Step 2:
Knowing the signs of when your baby wants to feed is also very helpful. As a general rule, if your baby moves his or her head from side to side with their mouth open, that means that they want to feed.
To start the feeding, move your baby close to you, and make sure that his or her chest is touching yours. Remember to bring your baby to your breast, and not your breast to your baby.
Step 3:
The next step would be to bring your baby to your nipple. As your baby tips their head back, the top lip should brush over your nipple. This would encourage them to open their mouth wide.
To know the other steps, go to the next page!
Step 4:
When your baby’s mouth is wide open, hug your baby to your breast so that your baby can take your breast into his or her mouth with his or her chin leading.
Step 5:
To know if you have a good attachment, your baby should have a large mouthful of breast and your nipple should be positioned far back in his or her mouth. This way, breastfeeding will be more comfortable and your baby will be able to get all the milk that he or she needs.
Another sign of good attachment is that there will be little to no pain, however for first time breastfeeding mothers, there might be some pain when you breastfeed.
Here is a video from the Australian Breastfeeding Association with more detailed steps:
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