Prima Baby’s breastfeeding expert, Clare Byam-Cook gives advice on taking care of your self whilst breastfeeding which will benefit both you and your baby.
STAY HYDRATED
Keep a drink handy when you’re feeding, as you need to be well hydrated to produce enough milk.
KEEP UP YOUR CALORIE INTAKE
You use up lots of energy when breastfeeding, so keep your calorie intake up. Eat a healthy diet; opt for nutritious foods, such as nuts, wholemeal toast or fruit. But if you’re busy and miss lunch, it’s better to grab a biscuit than to eat nothing at all.
FEED REGULARY
In the early days, try to feed your baby regularly – express milk if you think your supply needs a boost. If you ever give your baby a bottle at night, it will affect your milk supply, so express
the equivalent feed.
KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR INFECTION
If your nipples are feeling sore, check your baby is latching on properly; and use a good nipple cream such as Lansinoh HPA lanolin, £9.95, lansinoh.co.uk. If your breasts are red and engorged, massage them under a warm shower and/or use a breast pump to relieve the pressure. If this doesn’t clear your breasts and you have red lumpy patches after 12 hours, seek medical advice – you might have an infection and need antibiotics.
GET SOME REST
Grab any opportunity to rest, as being tired can affect milk supply.
FIND THE RIGHT SUPPORT
If you’re having problems, ask your midwife, health visitor, or other new mums to recommend breastfeeding drop-in clinics or counsellors in your area.
For more advice, see Clare’s book Top Tips For Breast-feeding (£6.99, Vermilion).
