How to Make Nursing Easy for First Time Moms
3 Tips to Make Nursing Easy
Breastfeeding benefits both mom and baby as it helps mom to lose pregnancy weight and is the ideal food for the little one. But it is not easy, especially for new moms. If you’re a mom-to-be or new mom, here are a few tips to make nursing easier:
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Store Whenever You Can
Breast milk may lose some vitamins and antioxidants over time, but it’s still preferable to formula. Whether you are looking to build a stash for times when you’re at work or need one for the nighttime feeds, expressed breast milk can be a great alternative to breastfeeding. However, it’s essential to store the milk properly. Make sure you use the right container for storage like glass bottles, BPA-free plastic bottles, or freezer bags. Do not store milk in thin plastic bags commonly used to store sandwiches. Freshly pumped breast milk can be stored for around 12 months at a temperature of about 0°F, but don’t refreeze it after it is thawed. If you’re storing it in the refrigerator, it can stay good for up to 8 days. Just make sure not stored in the refrigerator door where it will be exposed to warmer temperatures every time the door is opened.
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Choose the Right Nursing Garments
There’s nothing wrong with nursing on the go, but if you’re a first-time mom and feeling anxious, using a nursing cover can offer some privacy. But not all nursing covers are made alike. Some can be too small and don’t cover effectively while others can be too large and cumbersome. You may also want to get some nursing dresses and tops. They not only make nursing comfortable, but they also do not expose as much of your breasts as you might imagine. At Mother Bee Maternity, our maternity tops and dresses are designed to be used after the baby is born for nursing. You can breastfeed conveniently and discreetly. Other options to consider include button-ups, strapless dresses, and cross-front tops.
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Eat the Right Food:
Diet-fads like liquids-only, low-carb, keto, and others are best avoided while breastfeeding. Your body needs around 500 extra calories per day to maintain a regular milk supply. For most women, that means they need to consume about 1,500 to 1,800 calories per day, aiming at the higher end of this range. But we’re all different and so are our energy levels, so this number can vary. The idea is to listen to your body and focus on eating based on your appetite. Include plenty of vegetables, fruits, dairy, and other nutrient-dense food in your diet.
What was your nursing experience? Please share your stories with us!
