The first commercial baby formula was developed in 1867! Throughout history there have been moms that have not been able to nurse but until formula was developed a wet nurse was employed. So when formula was introduced the need for wet nurses disappeared. The problem with formula was that it became the "normal" way to feed your baby. That is definitely changing.. Canada and US are getting back on track and breastfeeding is on the rise!
My son Parker and I had a rough start with breastfeeding. He was Jaundice and really sleepy in the hospital and spent a lot of time under the lights. I pumped a lot in the hospital and fed him with a syringe. I was adamant that he not get ANY formula or use a bottle, it was written in my birth plan which they had in my file. I wasn't getting very much when pumping so I was being told how much I would need etc. I knew from my sister and from books that they did not need much at first and to not worry. One nurse had the nerve to mention formula to me and I told her "No.. my baby does not need formula.. what we need is to get out of this hospital and to our cozy home where we can be comfortable"... I'm actually not so sure if I said it so nicely. I had it written down in my file and I still had formula shoved down my throat.. so imagine if I was a new mom who had no idea! The nurses and lactation consultant at the hospital were useless for me. Within an hour of getting home from the hospital Parker had a full feed!
My first month was not fun at all! I was so engorged when my milk came in.. cabbage leaves were a life saver! I had a lot of nipple pain! I had read about tongue ties and I was convinced Parker had one as I couldn't see anything wrong with his latch. multiple nurses and doctors told me he was fine. I had the doctor refer me to the Lakeview Breastfeeding clinic in Calgary, AB and sure enough... Tongue tie!
My tips to succeed!
- Before you have your baby find a family member or friend that can help you. My mom and sister we're amazing! They may be able to share resources to help you as well. My sister shared Dr. Jack Newman with me.
- Know what a good latch looks like. Find images that show the difference between a good latch and bad latch.
- Be aware that it is a learning process for both you and your baby. It takes time to figure it out and until it's figured out you may be feeding your baby far more than every three hours.
- It shouldn't hurt! It may be uncomfortable at first while you get used to it but from what I understand it shouldn't hurt.
- Check to see if there is a breastfeeding clinic in your area. I live in Canada and the clinic was covered by our healthcare. If you do not have one find a lactation consultant and see if it is covered by your insurance.
- Purchase a couple nursing bras, nursing tank tops and shirts so that you can nurse comfortably and discreetly wherever you are. This is FAR less money than formula so don't feel guilty about purchasing items that you will be comfortable. My mom bought me two nursing tanks and they are worth every penny... the essential tank by Bravado.
0 comments:
Post a Comment