10 Ways to Help Breastfeeding Mamas
It can be difficult to watch the new mother in your life struggle with their breastfeeding journey. They may be experiencing a lack of milk production, latching issues, or just the sheer demand on their body can send someone over the edge. Even though you can’t do the nursing, there are things you can do to make the process a little bit easier.
1. Sign Up for a Breastfeeding Class
Encourage your nursing partner to take a breastfeeding class or make an appointment with a lactation consultant before Baby comes! This will help build confidence about the challenges that may lay ahead, and help everyone feel better prepared.
2. Set Up a Special “Breastfeeding Corner”
Include all the things she’ll need while breastfeeding: rocking chair, table, breastfeeding pillow, phone charger, water cup, snacks (she’ll be very hungry from all the calories burned!) and her favorite book or Kindle. She’s going to be spending a lot of time there, so make it as comfortable as possible.
3. Make a “Breastfeeding Basket”
Fill it with essentials that she can move from room to room. Items she’ll benefit from are nursing pads, burp cloths, tissues, nipple cream and more snacks! That way,she isn’t scrambling around during feeding times.
4. Make Mom Meals with Foods that Boost Milk Production
Foods like oatmeal, brewer’s yeast, vegetables, almonds, and sesame seeds may increase breastmilk production. That way, you’re feeding her and helping her feed the baby all at once.
5. Step it Up When it Comes to Household Duties
Mom has a lot on her plate keeping up with hourly feedings. Another good option during the first few months is hiring a cleaning person to come once a month to do most of the deep cleaning.
6. Keep Her Company
You might not be able to feed the baby, but it doesn’t mean she has to be solo. Use feeding times as a chance to catch up on current events and ask her how she's feeling.
7. Shower Her with Encouragement
Breastfeeding is no easy task—and she just finished pregnancy and childbirth! Make sure you tell her what a great job she’s doing and how amazed you are at her power.
8. Take Over Diaper Duty
Since Mom is the only one who can breastfeed, make diapers your domain.
9. Help with Feedings
Ask her to pump a bottle and take a feeding shift! Like middle-of-the-night ones...so she can get some rest.
10. Learn About Breastfeeding
Read the blogs, skim the books, watch the videos. Make sure she knows you’re on this journey with her even if you can’t take the wheel.
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