Tips and recommendations for a successful breastfeeding
Verena Keller
Mother of three children, family pediatric nurse, breastfeeding specialist®
Breastfeeding is the most natural and best way to feed a baby and strengthen the bond. But there are often hurdles and challenges, especially in the early days. In this article, you will find valuable tips and recommendations on how to breastfeed successfully to give your child the best start in life.
Table of contents
- The most important tips to start breastfeeding
- The best breastfeeding positions for a pleasant breastfeeding period
- Support from a nursing pillow
- milk production and amount of milk
- Breast milk strengthens the immune system
- Emotional attachment through breastfeeding and bonding
- Important Recommendations for a successful breastfeeding period
The most important tips for starting breastfeeding
Prepare for breastfeeding early! Regardless of your birth preparation course, an additional breastfeeding preparation course help develop the necessary knowledge and self-confidence for the first weeks of breastfeeding.
The best breastfeeding positions for a comfortable breastfeeding period
Choosing the right breastfeeding position is crucial to avoid pain and to make breastfeeding comfortable for you and your baby. The classic cradle position is popular, but often challenging for those new to breastfeeding. Here are some tips for implementation:
- Make sure that your baby is lying on your chest with his mouth open, slightly bent back and his head in the middle position.
- Recommendation: Starts with the reverse cradle hold, which provides better support for your baby's head and neck. (See picture on the right)
Support from a nursing pillow
nursing pillow are ideal for relieving pressure on the back and neck. Thanks to the stable base, a firm nursing pillow offers additional support for you and your baby. Make sure you get a firm pillow that adjusts well and relieves pressure on your back while breastfeeding.
Milk production and milk quantity: understanding and supporting
The milk production is controlled by the hormones oxytocin and prolactin. Oxytocin is our bonding and cuddling hormone and is released in pulses every time we breastfeed. Prolactin is responsible for the amount of milk and reaches its peak at one o'clock in the morning. Babies often need more closeness and breastfeeding, especially in the evenings, known as "cluster feeding". This frequent breastfeeding is a natural mechanism for stimulating milk production for the next day.
Breast milk strengthens the immune system
breast milk contains a wealth of important nutrients and antibodies that immune system your baby. Breastfed babies have a lower risk of illnesses such as middle ear infections, respiratory infections and gastrointestinal illnesses¹. By breastfeeding regularly on demand, you promote milk production and ensure that your baby is optimally nourished.
Emotional bonding through breastfeeding and bonding
Breastfeeding not only supports physical health, but also strengthens the emotional bond between mother and child. The skin-to-skin contact promotes bonding and gives your baby a feeling of security and closeness. This emotional exchange is an important building block for successful breastfeeding.
Important recommendations for a successful breastfeeding period:
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Find a breastfeeding position that is comfortable for you and supports you and your baby.
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Make sure you breastfeed correctly to avoid pain and breastfeeding problems.
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Promotes milk production through frequent breastfeeding and bonding.
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Do not hesitate to seek professional help if you have any questions or problems.
We wish you many special moments on your breastfeeding tripWith these tips, you can enjoy your time together to the fullest and give your baby a healthy start in life.
