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5 Nursing Surprises
What You May Not Have Heard but Need to Know By Lyn Mettler
I would never trade breastfeeding for bottle-feeding my son. It brought us together, promoted a unique bond and, I hope, helped my son be as healthy as he can be. However, as in every new adventure, there are some twists and turns that, despite reading up on the subject and attending breastfeeding classes, I did not expect.
From one mom to another, I wanted to prepare you for a few of these unexpected events so that you might be more capable and educated as you begin your nursing experience. I've also offered a few tips that I would have found helpful while breastfeeding my son.
Well, for some new moms, one of the first big challenges is getting your baby to want to nurse (forget about the latch on, though that can be troublesome, too), especially if you had a medicated delivery. "Babies go through a recovery sleep cycle after the first two to four hours of life and remain in that sleep cycle usually until they are 24 hours old," says Donna Bisbee, RN and IBCLC for Elmbrook Memorial Hospital in Brookfield, Wis. "Parents need to know this is all part of the natural process of Baby learning to feed."
I spent the first three days cajoling my little one to breastfeed – he just was not interested no matter what I did. Sleeping seemed much more appealing to him. I think many new moms give up at this point, but knowing that this is completely normal can help you sail on to smoother waters. It can be frustrating, but I promise it ends soon. Before you know it, that little guy will wake up, and nursing will suddenly jump to No. 1 on his "to do" list.
In the meantime, try to keep him awake and interested by gently rubbing his back, tickling his feet, touching your nipple to his mouth, changing his diaper or taking off a few layers of clothes so he's not so cozy. "Staying wrapped up snuggly is like your alarm going off on Monday morning and you not being able to get up because you are so comfortable," says Bisbee. I can relate!
