Breastfeeding Tips for New Moms

1. Never second guess yourself

From the moment you hold your baby in your arms, there are a plethora of voices telling you how/when/and what is right for your baby. Your OB, pediatrician, nurses, and lactation consultants often all check in to share their advice and give you tips and tricks related to your health and baby’s health. And that’s great! But sometimes, when well meaning doctors hand out wet diaper charts, or tell you the importance of scheduling a certain amount of minutes per boob, per feeding… it  can feel overwhelming and even counterproductive. If baby is gaining weight and wetting/soiling diapers- you’re doing just fine.

2. Never get pressured into weaning before you’re ready

If you’re like most breastfeeding moms, people you never asked for their opinion want to tell you about how you should feed your baby. And, if you breastfeed past infancy, you’ll get more than a few opinions on when you should stop breastfeeding. Though the American Pediatric Association recommends 1 year and acknowledges benefits well beyond that, and the World Health Organization recommends until 2, well meaning (or not so well meaning) friends, family, and even strangers may have other ideas. But, don’t let others decide what’s right for you and your child. You are doing great, Mom. And, breastfeeding your little one beyond infancy is so, so healthy no matter how creeped out (and vocal on social media) your misinformed second cousin is.

3. Don’t inconvenience yourself to avoid offending others

Have you ever sat in a bathroom stall, or shrouded yourself in a picnic blanket to avoid being seen while breastfeeding? Have you ever left the room during a party or family gathering, only to sit in some stuffy closet somewhere to avoid breastfeeding in front of your Uncle Bob? If so, you’re not alone. If you feel more comfortable stealing away to breastfeed baby in relative peace and quiet, that’s fine! Many moms have done it. But, know that you don’t have to. There is nothing shameful or disturbing about breastfeeding in public.

4. Don’t feel like you’re doing nothing 

You’ll spend plenty of time on the daily thinking about the many things you think you’re doing wrong as a parent. Remember, there is absolutely nothing wrong with you breastfeeding your baby and all the time you’re spending doing it.

In case no one tells you today: You’re doing a great job! Go Mom!