It's hard to describe everything that I learned because a lot of it was either a video or hands on with positioning the baby, but I'm going to do my best to list out a few of the things I thought were not common knowledge.
Health Benefits
- Breastfeeding increases and speeds up weight lost after giving birth (for mom of course)
- It decreases the risk of SIDS and increases the overall IQ of the child
- For the first 6 months of breastfeeding, it is a 98% effective version of birth control method (I always thought that was a myth)
- Plus, all of the other well known benefits such as the babies immuitity protection, bonding, reduced risk of cancer (in both mom and baby) etc.
- Nursing bra pads
- Special creams
- Nursing bra's - the instructor felt this was more of a luxury, and with the average cost around $40 each, skipping the nursing bra is an easy way to save on money
- Expensive breast pumps, the instructor showed us several moderately priced versions that would work perfectly fine - my two favorites were the Medela Swing Breast Pump and the Harmony Manual Pump (I'm not sure which I will get yet)
- A baby's stomach is the size of their fist, which means they don't actually eat as much as you would think
- They need to nurse every 2-3 hours
- You should wait 2-3 weeks before introducing a bottle or pacifier
- Don't put your hand on the baby's head while nursing because this prevents them from swallowing, instead support the neck and let the head lay naturally
- Breastfeed within the first hour or so after the baby is born
- "Room-In" with the baby at the hospital because it's easier to nurse with the baby in the room
- Signs of hunger include: sucking, licking lips, chewing on fingers etc. - a crying baby is past the point of hunger and will be harder to breastfeed because it will have to calm down first before being able to nurse
- Wake the baby to feed in the first few weeks
- Breaking the suction properly with a finger will help keep breastfeeding pain free
Along with everything I learned I also got some goodies! I was given a sample of the Medela disposable nursing bra pads, a washable cloth bra pad, Amy Spangler's Breastfeeding - A Parent's Guide, and a reusable quick clean micro-steam bag! Along with a folder filled with pamphlets and other information in relation to the local area.
Now, if only I could find a class on cloth diapers!
That's great that you went to a class! I didn't go to a class but I had some friends that helped me along the way. The only thing that I was totally shocked about what when my milk came in! A few days after giving birth your boobs will become bigger than you ever thought possible and they will be hard and very uncomfortable. And it'll take a few days to calm down.
ReplyDeleteAnyway, don't count on the birth control aspect. I've heard this too from doctors, but I got my period when Caleb was 3 months and 2 months with Ana. I have a friend who is the same way. So, unless you're okay with having two kids in one year, it's best to play it safe :)
Also, it's a good idea to start off with the disposable breast pads, cause it's possible you won't need them. I do, but I have a friend who doesn't and you could save some money by skipping the washable ones.
And I wouldn't skimp on the nursing bras. Nursing can get tiring and you want to make it as easy and convenient as possible, so you won't be tempted to give up.
Well, that's my two cents, whether you want it or not :)
Thanks for the heads up on everything! I def. like to hear everyone's opinion! Especially since I have never done this before.
ReplyDeleteI hope Monty will be patient with my learning curve!
The disposable's is a good idea! I'll have to buy a box and then just go from there. I also need bra's anyway, so I plan on at least buying a few and then getting some breastfeeding tank tops for when I'm at home.
Thanks for the advice!!!