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Breastfeeding Basics

Taking Care of Yourself

It is vitally important that you rest, heal and feed yourself and your baby the first few weeks after birth. If possible, arrange for the baby's father to take time off from work to help you, especially at night, and/or ask other family members, friends or caregivers to help.

Don't schedule a lot of company at first, and try to avoid stress. If you are a tense person, you may find it difficult to relax the first few weeks. Fortunately, the milk-producing hormone, prolactin, will have a natural relaxing effect on you, but even still, additional help may be needed. Many mothers find that setting up a special "breastfeeding station" at home creates a relaxing environment. Select a comfortable chair (a big easy chair or rocking chair with arms is nice) and a footstool to raise your lap. Surround yourself with everything you might need: pillows, telephone, books, nutritious snacks, juice, water and extra diapers. Listen to soothing music or use relaxation techniques to help you unwind before you breastfeed.

Don't be surprised if your nipples are tender as feedings begin, or if your breasts become engorged, particularly during the first few weeks. These common symptoms can usually be alleviated quickly.

Expect to feel tired. Whenever possible, try to sleep when your baby sleeps—even during the day. Since babies tend to be wakeful at night, it may help to keep rooms dimly lit, quiet and conducive to sleep at night and brightly lit during the day. A bit of background noise throughout the day may also help.

Remember, virtually everything that you eat and drink can be passed to your baby through your breast milk, so it is important to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet (and avoid or limit the use of certain over-the-counter drugs, medications, alcohol, etc.).

Finally, enjoy this special time. Breastfeeding your baby the first few weeks may be an adjustment, but as you and your baby fall into a routine, you will soon reap the many benefits of this experience. Note—Remember to use the "Daily Breastfeeding Diary" to document your baby's feeding and elimination patterns the first few weeks.

Seek Support

Seek support from friends, family members, support groups and/or professionals. A lactation consultant—a health care provider specially trained and educated on breastfeeding—can provide support, guidance and assistance with a number of issues including prenatal planning, breastfeeding techniques, breastfeeding products, and more. Some consultants are board certified—meaning they have passed a certifying exam given by a university or the International Board of Lactation Consultant Examiners (IBLCE). IBCLCs (International Board Certified Lactation Consultants) must be recertified every five years and re-examined every 10 years. Though certification is a strong indicator that a consultant has met certain qualifications, it does not mean that non-certified consultants are substandard. Ask your employer or benefits manager if your company offers access to a lactation consultant as a benefit; or ask friends, family members, doctors, hospitals and support groups for referrals.

This publication is for general informational purposes only and it is not intended to provide any reader with specific authority, advice or recommendations. Where you deem necessary, we suggest that you seek advice regarding your particular situation from the appropriate professional.