Dad and I both couldn’t stop talking after the breastfeeding 101 and supporting breastfeeding the breastfeeding mother classes we went to, respectively. Pat and Gina were fantastic. Some things we learned:
- During the first weeks, the task is to “rest and nest.”
- The head of the baby needs to be able to go backward to drink…just like adults do.
- If you need to supplement off the breast, the baby’s position should be upright.
- The “C” or “U” breast hold should be parallel to the baby’s lips, no matter how they are positioned…it’s like making a big sandwich more manageable.
- Stomach to stomach is an ideal position.
- Sleeping with the baby and breastfeeding is good.
- Adults should cut their nails short for the fingers they will inevitably put in the baby’s mouth to soothe or break a latch.
- Skin-to-skin contact resets the baby (and mother) when they feel overwhelmed.
The one book recommended was Breastfeeding Made Simple. And various co-workers have said that lactation consults after the baby was born made all the difference.
