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Beginning to Breastfeed
11 Tips from the Trenches By Kelly Camden, CD-DONA
6. Align the baby's body in a comfortable position.Mother and Baby should be belly to belly, and the baby's head should not be flexed or extended. It is worthwhile for partners to check the positions; oftentimes they are able to help the mother with positioning after the family has returned home. 7. Try helping Baby out.Mothers who are first learning to breastfeed might try to lift and move the nipple to put it into the baby's mouth. The key is to bring the baby toward the breast instead.
Watch for the baby to cry or open her mouth. Wait until it is open to the widest point, which may mean letting it open and close a few times. When the mouth is open to the widest point, like a yawn, quickly draw the baby in toward the breast. This movement facilitates inserting a large portion of the areola into the baby's mouth, rather than just the nipple. When the baby is nursing on as much of the areola as possible, breastfeeding is more comfortable for the mother. Also, when the baby is latched on in this manner, nursing will pump the breast more efficiently, and there is better milk flow.
To do this, compress the breast behind the areola, with thumb and fingers in a "c-shape." The hand will be angled as if you are holding a sandwich for the baby. When he opens his mouth wide, guide the baby forward to quickly put the mouth over the nipple. Hold the breast for a moment while the baby latches on, and then let go. See if Baby maintains the latch and starts suckling. Repeat these steps a few times, as needed. It may be helpful to stimulate the reflex point again and have Mom express a little colostrum for the baby to taste.
