Breastfeeding Tips For First-Time Moms

Linsey Gold • August 4, 2022

It's said that breastfeeding is one of the most natural things a woman can do. But for first-time mothers, it can be daunting--especially if you're not sure what to expect.

Here are some tips to help you get through the early stages of breastfeeding and help make your experience a little easier!

21 Breastfeeding Tips for New Moms

Breastfeeding Benefits

For many new mothers, the decision of whether or not to breastfeed is one of the first decisions they will make about their baby's care. Although bottle feeding with infant formula is a perfectly valid choice, there are many benefits to breastfeeding that are worth considering.

Women who breastfeed have a lower risk of breast and ovarian cancer. In addition, breastfeeding can help to delay the return of menstruation, giving the mother's body a chance to recover from pregnancy and childbirth.

As for babies, breast milk is packed with nutrients and antibodies that can boost immunity and help protect against ear infections and respiratory illnesses.

Additionally, breastfeeding has been shown to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). SIDS is the leading cause of death in infants under the age of 1, and studies have shown that babies who are breastfed are less likely to die from SIDS.

Pre-baby Breastfeeding Tips

Congratulations on your upcoming arrival! If you're like most new moms, you may be wondering how to best prepare for your breastfeeding journey. While there's no one-size-fits-all answer, there are a few things you can do to set yourself up for success:

Research, Research, Research

There are a ton of resources available on breastfeeding--take advantage of them! The more you know going into it, the better prepared you'll be.

Talk to other moms who have breastfed, attend a breastfeeding class (most hospitals offer them), and read as much as you can on the subject.

Invest in a Good Nursing Sports Bra and Some Nipple Cream

Nursing bras are designed to offer support and comfort while also providing easy access for nursing. Nipple cream can help to soothe and protect your nipples from the friction of breastfeeding.

Although it may seem like a small thing, investing in these two items can make a big difference in your breastfeeding experience.

Eat a Healthy Diet and Drink Plenty of Fluids

What you eat and drink while breastfeeding can affect your baby. Be sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and drink plenty of water and other fluids (like milk) to stay hydrated.

Also, avoid caffeine, alcohol, and cigarettes, as these can all pass into your breast milk and may disturb your baby's sleep or feeding patterns.

Create a Support System

Having a supportive partner, family member, or friend is key to successful breastfeeding. These people can offer much-needed help and encouragement when you're feeling tired, frustrated, or just need a break.

The First Hour Breastfeeding Tips

The first hour after birth is often called the "golden hour." This is when your baby is most alert and responsive, and it's a special time when mother and baby are able to bond. It's also when your baby gets his or her first dose of the nutrient-rich pre-milk called colostrum, which lays down the foundation for a lifetime of good health.

Here are a few tips to help get you started:

Get Comfortable

One of the most important things to do when breastfeeding is to get comfortable. If you're not comfortable, chances are your baby isn't either.

Find a comfortable position: Whether you're sitting up or lying down, it's important that you're in a position that doesn't put any strain on your back or neck. You may need to experiment a bit to find what works best for you.
Use pillows for support: Pillows can help support your back and arms, and they can also prop up your baby so that he or she is at the right height for nursing.
Wear loose clothing: You want to make sure that you have easy access to your breasts, so avoid clothing that's too tight or constricting.
Start with the first breast. Once your baby is latched on, allow them to feed until they are no longer interested or until the flow of milk slows down. Then offer the second breast.
Relax and take deep breaths: It's normal to feel a little anxious at first, but try to relax and take slow, deep breaths. The more relaxed you are, the more likely it is that your baby latches on correctly.

Keep Your Baby Close

Babies are born with a strong need to be close to their mothers. This instinct is called the "Moro reflex," and it helps to keep your baby safe and secure.

The Moro reflex can make it difficult for most babies to latch on to the breast, so it's important to keep your baby close while you're breastfeeding. You can do this by holding your baby skin-to-skin, or by using a baby carrier.

This position also promotes bonding with your baby and gives you the opportunity to observe his or her cues.

First Few Weeks Breastfeeding Tips

The early weeks of breastfeeding can be tough, but there are a few things you can do to make things go more smoothly:

Be Patient

Breastfeeding can be a rewarding experience for both mother and child, but it is also important to be patient.

The first few days after childbirth are often the hardest, as your body adjusts to the new demands of breastfeeding. You may feel sore and tired, and your baby may be fussy. But stick with it! The more you breastfeed, the easier it will become.

Know Your Baby's Cues

Every baby is different, and each one will have different cues that indicate when he or she is hungry. It's important to learn to recognize your baby's cues so that you can start feeding him or her as soon as possible.

Some common hunger cues include:

crying
restlessness
rooting (searching for the nipple with his or her mouth)
putting his or her hand to his or her mouth
sucking on his or her fingers

If you're not sure whether your baby is hungry, try offering the breast. There's no harm in trying, and chances are your baby will let you know if he or she isn't ready to eat!

Use a Nipple Shield

Along with learning how to position and latch their baby, new mothers also have to deal with sore nipples and engorgement. To make things easier, some mothers choose to use a nipple shield.

Nipple shields are thin, silicone discs that cover the nipple and are held in place by a flange. They can help to increase breast milk flow and make it easier for baby to latch on. In addition, they can also protect sore nipples from further irritation.

If you're considering using a nipple shield, it's important to talk to a lactation consultant or your child's doctor first. They can help you determine if a nipple shield is the right option for you and show you how to use it properly.

Pump It Up

If you'll be away from your baby for more than a couple of hours, it's a good idea to pump your breast milk in advance. This will help ensure that your baby has enough milk to eat while you're gone.

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your pump:

Start by hand expressing a few drops of milk. This will help stimulate let-down and make it easier to get started.
Invest in a good quality breast pump. This will make the pumping process much easier and more comfortable.
Make sure to read the instructions that come with your pump. Each model is different, and you want to make sure that you are using it correctly. If you are using an electric pump, start on the lowest setting and gradually increase as needed. If you are using a manual pump, start with short strokes and increase the speed as you go.
Try to pump at least once every two to three hours during the day. This will help maintain enough milk supply.
If possible, pump in a relaxed environment where you can sit back and relax. This will help your body to better respond to the pumping process.

Take It Easy

Breastfeeding can be challenging, but it's important to remember that you're doing an amazing job! Take the time to care for yourself and relax.

Here are a few things you can do to take care of yourself:

Get plenty of rest: When your baby sleeps, try to sleep too. If you can't sleep, at least put your feet up and relax.
Take breaks when you need them: If you're feeling overwhelmed, ask your partner or a friend for help so that you can take a break.
Seek out support from other breastfeeding mothers: It can be helpful to talk to someone who is going through the same thing as you.

Breastfeeding Tips for New Moms with Inverted or Flat Nipples

If you have inverted or flat nipples, don't worry—you can still breastfeed your baby! It may take a little bit of practice to get the hang of it, but it can be done.

Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Use a breast pump or hand express milk for a few minutes to help draw out your nipple.
When you put your baby to the breast, aim the nipple toward the roof of his or her mouth. You may need to use your fingers to help guide it in.
Try different positions until you find one that works well for both you and your baby. Some mothers find that lying down is more comfortable than sitting up.

Common Breastfeeding Challenges (And How to Avoid Them)

Breastfeeding can be a wonderful experience for both mother and child, but it's not always easy. Here are some of the most common breastfeeding challenges, along with tips on how to avoid them:

Sore Nipples

When you first start breastfeeding, your nipples may become sore. This is because your baby is getting used to latching on and may not be doing it correctly.

To avoid sore nipples, make sure that your baby latches on correctly. The nipple should be positioned far back in the baby's mouth, and the tongue should be cupped underneath.

Additionally, let your nipples air dry. This will help to soothe the pain and promote healing.

If you are still having pain, you can try using a nipple cream or gel.

Low Breast Milk Supply

Low milk supply can be frustrating and discouraging for new mothers. There are a few things you can do to avoid this problem, however:

Make sure that you're drinking plenty of fluids and eating a nutritious diet. This will help to ensure that your body has the resources it needs to stimulate milk production.
Try to relax and avoid stress as much as possible. Stress can interfere with milk production, so take some time for yourself each day to relax and unwind.

Oversupply

Oversupply happens when you produce more milk than your baby needs. It can lead to excessive spitting up, gas, and diarrhea in your baby. Oversupply may also cause engorged breasts.

To avoid it, try pumping or hand expressing after nursing to relieve pressure and reduce your milk production.

Engorgement

Another common challenge is engorgement, which happens when your breasts become overly full of milk. This can happen when you first start breastfeeding or when your baby goes through a growth spurt.

Engorged breasts can be painful, but there are a few things you can do to relieve the discomfort:

Try to nurse more frequently. This will help to empty your breasts and will prevent them from becoming too full.
Use a cold compress to reduce swelling.
Continue nursing even if it is uncomfortable. If you stop nursing, your milk supply will decrease and engorgement will become worse.

Clogged Ducts

A clogged duct is a common breastfeeding challenge that can occur when milk gets backed up in the breast. This can happen for a number of reasons, including poor latch, not draining the breast fully, or wearing tight clothing. If left untreated, a clogged duct can lead to mastitis, a painful infection of the breast tissue.

To avoid clogged ducts, it's important to ensure that baby has a good latch and that you are draining the breast completely. You should also avoid wearing tight clothing and using anything that could compress the breasts, such as underwire bras or sleeping on your stomach.

If you do develop a clogged duct, there are a few simple treatments that can help. These include applying heat to the affected area, massaging the breast while nursing, and expressing milk frequently.

Mastitis

Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue that can cause fever, chills, and general flu-like symptoms. Mastitis is often caused by blocked milk ducts, so it's important to empty the breasts completely when nursing. If you start to feel sick, see your doctor right away; if caught early, mastitis can usually be treated successfully with antibiotics.

Leaky Breasts

This can happen when your baby doesn't latch on correctly, or when your milk supply is too high. While it may be annoying, leaky breasts are perfectly normal and usually nothing to worry about.

The best way to deal with them is to wear nursing pads to absorb any leaked milk. If you're concerned about your baby getting enough milk, try expressing some milk before you feed them. This will help to reduce the amount of milk that leaks out.

Breastfeeding in Public

Breastfeeding in public can be daunting for many new mothers, but it's important to remember that you have a right to nurse wherever you are.

If you're worried about modesty, there are several ways to cover up while nursing. You can also try using a nursing wardrobe, a scarf, or a shawl.

Poor Nutrition

As a parent, you want to be sure about the health of your infant. With nutraMetrix DNA Miracles Probiotics Extra, you can rest easy knowing that you're providing your child one of the most complete children's probiotic and prebiotic formulas on the market today.

Both probiotics and prebiotics are necessary for a child's proper and healthy development. Healthful bacteria and prebiotics are passed from mother to child through breast milk. In some instances–for example, if an infant is formula-fed or born through Caesarian section–it may be beneficial to supplement an infant with healthful, proper amounts of these beneficial components of breast milk.

There are also outside factors that may cause an imbalance of an infant's bacterial composition. Research has shown that consuming probiotics and prebiotics, whether through foods or supplements, can promote infants' balance of bacteria–and consequently, their health.

nutraMetrix DNA Miracles Probiotics Extra provides your infant with a scientifically-formulated probiotic and prebiotic combination, as well as a healthy, safe serving of vitamin D. Each serving of nutraMetrix DNA Miracles Probiotics Extra contains 200 million colony-forming units (CFUs) of probiotics with demonstrated beneficial effects for infants and newborns. nutraMetrix DNA Miracles Probiotics Extra also provides 900 mg of prebiotics to support the normal growth and activity of healthy bacteria in the gut. Along with vitamin D, these three ingredients have a synergistic effect and reinforce some of the beneficial effects of breast milk.

Parents always want to give their children the best. With nutraMetrix DNA Miracles Probiotics Extra, not only can you be sure you're doing all you can to support your infant's health, but you receive our pledge to protect your little miracle through our commitment to quality and care.

Final Thoughts

Breastfeeding can be a wonderful way to bond with your baby and provide them with the nutrients they need to grow and thrive. However, it's not always easy. If you're having difficulty, don't hesitate to ask for help from lactation consultants or doctors. With a little patience and practice, you'll be a pro in no time!

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Sex Life After Breast Cancer

By Linsey Gold • January 20, 2023

After cancer treatment, many women feel out of sync with their body. Here are tips to help you reconnect with your sexuality and empower you to make choices that are right for you.

8 Types Of Breast Cancer

By Linsey Gold • January 6, 2023

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in women, and it can occur in any part of the breast. There are many different breast cancer types, but all of them start with abnormal cells that grow out of control. These abnormal cells can invade and damage nearby breast tissue, including the lymph nodes under your arm, which is why it’s important to get regular mammograms and checkups. Early detection is key to successful treatment. In this article, we'll discuss the eight different breast cancer types. We hope this information will help you become more aware of the various types of breast cancer and their potential risks. RELATED: Breast Cancer And Exercise: The Role Of Physical Activity In Women With Breast Cancer 8 Breast Cancer Types Ductal or Lobular Carcinoma The most common type of breast cancer, ductal or lobular carcinoma, begins in the breast ducts or the lobules. This type of cancer can be invasive or non-invasive, and it's usually treated with a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Ductal Carcinoma in Situ (DCIS) or Intraductal Carcinoma or Stage 0 Breast Cancer Ductal carcinoma in situ is a pre-invasive or non-invasive breast cancer. This means that there are abnormal cells in the lining of the milk duct, and they haven't spread outside of the duct. In most cases, DCIS is found through a mammogram before it can be seen or felt. While DCIS isn't life-threatening, it's still considered cancer and should be treated as such. Left untreated, DCIS may develop into an invasive breast cancer, which can be much more serious. This is why many doctors recommend treatment for DCIS even though it's a noninvasive cancer. Surgery is the most common treatment for DCIS. The type of surgery depends on the size of the tumor and how far it has spread within the ducts. Radiation therapy is often used after surgery to kill any remaining breast cancer cells. Invasive Breast Cancer or Infiltrating Breast Cancer Invasive breast cancer is a more serious type because it has spread outside the milk ducts or lobules into surrounding breast tissue. Once the invasive breast tumors spread to other parts of the body, such as the bones or lungs, they become metastatic breast cancer. While early-stage invasive breast cancer may not cause any symptoms, advanced stages of the disease can cause a variety of symptoms, including: a lump or thickening in the breast bloody discharge from the nipple changes in the size or shape of the breast skin dimpling pain Treatment options for invasive breast cancer typically involve surgery to remove the cancerous breast tissue, as well as radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy to kill any remaining cancer cells. In some cases, a combination of these treatments is necessary to achieve the best possible outcome. With early detection and proper treatment, most women with invasive breast cancer can go on to lead long, healthy lives. The two most common types of invasive breast cancer are: a. Invasive Ductal Carcinoma or Infiltrating Ductal Carcinoma (IDC) Invasive ductal carcinomas are the most common breast cancer type, accounting for about 80% of all diagnosed cases. It begins in the milk ducts, but quickly spreads beyond ducts and into the surrounding breast tissue. Although ductal carcinoma can occur in any part of the breast, it most commonly affects the upper outer quadrant. It can occur in any age group, but is more often diagnosed in post-menopausal women. Invasive ductal carcinoma is also the most common type of male breast cancer. b. Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC) ILC is a type of invasive breast cancer that accounts for approximately 10-15% of all invasive breast cancers. Unlike other breast cancer types, which typically first form in the milk ducts, lobular carcinoma begins in the milk-producing glands (lobules) Invasive lobular breast cancer is often harder to detect on mammograms than other breast cancer types, so it's important for women to be aware of the signs and symptoms. While it can occur in women of any age, ILC is most commonly diagnosed in women over the age of 50. Apart from these two most common types, there are other rare breast cancers that are sub-types of invasive breast cancer. These breast cancers have cells with unique characteristics: Medullary carcinoma: This type is characterized by the presence of large cancer cells and is more likely to occur in women with a family history of breast cancer. Tubular carcinoma: Under a microscope, breast cancer cells from a tubular carcinoma look like tubes. This type makes up about 2% of all breast cancers. Mucinous (or colloid) carcinoma: This cancer looks very different from other types of breast cancer because it contains a large amount of mucin. Mucin is a jelly-like substance that's normally found in small amounts in mucous membranes, such as the lining of the gastrointestinal tract. Papillary carcinoma: This is characterized by long and thin tumors, similar in appearance to finger-like growths. It's usually found in older women. Adenoid cystic carcinoma: This is a type of cancer that typically affects the salivary glands. However, it can also occur in other tissues, such as the breast. It's characterized by the presence of two different types of cells--luminal and basaloid. Low-grade adenosquamous carcinoma: This is a rare variant of metaplastic breast cancer that's characterized by both glandular and squamous differentiation. Some subtypes of breast cancer have the same or even worse prognoses than invasive carcinoma, including: Mixed carcinoma: The prognosis of mixed carcinoma of the breast is quite good, with an average of eight-year disease-free survival. Metaplastic breast cancer: The five-year survival rate for this type is around 63%. Micropapillary carcinoma: This type is usually associated with a poorer prognosis than other types of breast cancer, but can be successfully treated in some cases. HER2-Positive Breast Cancer This is a type of breast cancer that's characterized by an overgrowth of the HER2 protein. This protein is found on the surface of healthy cells, and it helps to regulate cell growth. However, in HER2-positive breast cancer, the protein is produced in excess, causing the cells to grow and divide at an abnormally fast rate. Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC) TNBC is an aggressive type of invasive breast cancer that's named "triple negative" because it's characterized by the lack of receptors commonly found in breast cancer: estrogen receptor progesterone receptor human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) This means that the tumor cells aren't sensitive to hormone therapy, making it difficult to treat. They also tend to grow and spread more quickly than other types of breast cancer. Women with triple negative breast cancers are typically diagnosed at a younger age and have a higher risk of recurrence . RELATED: How To Improve Breast Health Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC) Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare form of locally advanced breast cancer, meaning that it has already progressed locally but has not yet spread through the lymph nodes or outside the breast. IBC accounts for only 1-5% of all breast cancer cases and typically occurs in younger women and in African American women. Symptoms can include: redness swelling warmth in the affected breast inverted nipple discharge from the nipple IBC is often mistaken for a breast infection, which can delay treatment and result in the cancer spreading. If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Less Common Types of Breast Cancers Some types of breast cancer are less common than others. This doesn't mean they're any less serious, but it does mean that they may not be as well-known. Here are three less common types of breast cancer: Paget's Disease of the Breast Paget disease is a rare form of cancer that affects the nipple and areola (the dark area of skin around the nipple). The disease gets its name from Sir James Paget, the doctor who first described it in 1874. Common symptoms include: a rash or crusting around the nipple itching burning pain Angiosarcoma Angiosarcoma is a type of cancer that develops in the lining of blood vessels or lymph vessels. It can occur anywhere in the body, but it most commonly develops in the skin, breast, or liver. Angiosarcoma is rare, and it's often diagnosed at an advanced stage. The prognosis for angiosarcoma is generally poor, but it varies depending on the location and stage of the cancer. With early diagnosis and treatment, some patients are able to achieve long-term remission. Phyllodes Tumor A phyllodes tumor is a rare type of breast tumor that arises from the breast's connective tissue, specifically the stroma. Its name comes from the Greek word "phyllodes," meaning "leaf-like." Phyllodes tumors tend to be large and bulky, and they can grow quickly. They're usually benign (non-cancerous), but in some cases, they can be malignant (cancerous). Phyllodes tumors are relatively rare, accounting for less than 1% of all breast tumors. Final Thoughts Breast cancer comes in many different forms and can affect people of any age, gender, or race. Understanding its different types is key to getting an accurate diagnosis and finding the best treatment plan. While breast cancer can be a serious illness, it's important to remember that it can also be successfully treated with early detection and advanced treatments. If you're ever concerned about a potential breast cancer symptom, don't hesitate to talk to your doctor. They can help you determine if it's something to be concerned about and make sure you get the care you need. Most importantly, remember to take your health into your own hands as much as possible—schedule regular check-ups with your doctor, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and stay up-to-date on breast health screenings. Doing this could save your life! Remember, early diagnosis is key for successful treatment of any type of breast cancer. Up Next: How To Take Care Of Your Breast Prostheses What Is A Mastectomy? | Everything You Need To Know The Best Bras After Breast Surgery