10 Breastfeeding MUST-KNOWs!

Just as each pregnancy is a personal experience, so too is breastfeeding. In fact, I find there are typically 3 groups of moms:

1. Those who love it from the very first latch, never have a minute's pain and were practically born to nurse;
2. Those who have a hard time with sore nipples/milk supply/latching and find it hard to imagine that they'll ever love it; and
3. Those who decide that they are just NOT going to do it at all - it's not for them.

I definitely believe that breast is best, but I know that it doesn't work for everyone. So as with all decisions that us moms have to make, get educated and do what you think is best for both you and your baby.

If you do decide to give it a try, be sure to give yourself a chance to settle in. Although breastfeeding is a natural process, it may take longer than you think to get used to it.

That's right, as natural as nursing is, I know that I had tons of questions. For example, I wanted to know if I had to prepare my nipples. I also wanted to know what it would feel like and if it would hurt? And most importantly, I wanted to know how to actually feed.

So, here's my list of 10 Breastfeeding MUST-KNOWs:

1. When your breasts get engorged for the first time (hello milk supply!!), apply a cool compress, like frozen peas. You can also try washed cold cabbage leaves (but don't leave them on too long they can drain your milk).

2. Drink lots of fluid. I know you've heard this before, but your hydration level really affects your milk output. So aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water a day. Try to have a glass of water next to you whenever you're nursing.

3. Keep away from spicy or garlicky foods, especially at the beginning. I slowly started introducing more foods at around 4 months and found it worked well.

4. Don't wash your nipples with soap - warm water is good enough.

5. If your nipples get irritated and sore, squeeze some breast milk on to them and rub it in. I also highly recommend Gel Pads - they worked wonders for me! If you'd like to give them a try go to Stinkerbells and do a product search for "Booby Tubes".

6. Relax! Stressing out will affect your milk supply, so do your best to "go with the flow".

7. Make sure your baby is latching on correctly from the very beginning - this will ensure good eating and prevent sore nipples. Just in case you don't already know, a good latch means a wide-open mouth like a yawn over your areola.

8. Expect to nurse often in the beginning. New babies eat at least 8 times in a 24-hour period. And don't worry if your feeds feel like they're really long in the beginning, they do get a lot shorter as your baby becomes more efficient at feeding!

9. When your baby is born his/her stomach is the size of a walnut, so don't panic if you feel he/she is not drinking a lot. Aim for small, frequent feeds. If you're at all concerned, don't be shy to ask your doctor.

10. Make sure your baby has lots of wet diapers to keep hydrated. A baby should wet at least 6 diapers per day. Breastfeeding is a wonderful gift for both you and your baby - don't be scared. Also remember, though, that if breastfeeding doesn’t work for you, don’t beat yourself up over it - there are many more ways to look out for your little one’s well-being!