Breastfeeding
Preparing for the Phenomena of Postpartum
Photo Credit: www.estercobephotography.com
There is so much information that we could cover about breastfeeding but when it comes to preparing for the postpartum time in pregnancy I believe you don’t have to have all of the information about breastfeeding yet. Too much information might be overwhelming. What would be helpful is to watch someone in person or on video breastfeed if you haven’t witnessed it before. I also think it would be helpful to reach out to any friends or family members that have breastfed to get support. There is a lot of learning in the moment when it comes to breastfeeding and getting help in person in invaluable if you find yourself having some difficulty. La Leche League of Fenton is a free group open to anyone that has in person meetings or You could hire me to come support you. Below is a quote from the World Health Organization.
"Breastfeeding is the normal way of providing young infants with the nutrients they need for healthy growth and development.
Virtually, all mothers can breastfeed, provided they have accurate information and the support of their family, the health care system and society at large.
Colostrum, the yellowish, sticky breast milk produced at the end of pregnancy, is recommended by WHO as the perfect food for the newborn, and feeding should be initiated within the first hour after birth. Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended up to six months of age, with continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond."
For this section please:
-Watch the below video.
-Watch this you tube video for a 7 min explanation of lactation. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vVRM7u_ycMc&feature=youtu.be
-Get a copy of The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding. Often times the library has a copy or you can borrow a copy from La Leche League of Fenton. There are parts of this book that would be nice to read while pregnant but the majority of it is ideal to have on had while you are learning to breastfeed. More info here: https://www.llli.org/resources/womanly-art-breastfeeding/
-View the educational image by Spirit Y Sol below. You can find more of their work at www.spiritysol.com
-Watch this video on newborn hunger cues.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ABAXgubx58Q
-Complete the following Journal Prompts.
Have your thoughts about how you want to feed your baby changed?
What worries or fears do you have about feeding your baby?
Who could support you in whatever way you choose to feed your baby?
Is your partner (if applicable) in agreement with your choice on how to feed your baby?
Remember: If taking in this information becomes uncomfortable for you it is important to shift and move these feelings. Feel them, identify what you need to learn from those feelings, then take action to move those feelings. This could look like free writing in your journal about your feelings, moving your body or expressing your feelings verbally. If you can't get unstuck, reach out to me and we will do a clarity coaching call.
With love,
