Dieser Beitrag wurde geschrieben von Verena Keller

Breastfeeding: What young parents should pay attention to

Tips and advice for a successful breastfeeding period

Verena Keller

Mother of three children, family pediatric nurse, breastfeeding specialist®

Breastfeeding is the most natural and best way to nourish a baby and strengthen the bond. However, especially in the early days, there are often hurdles and challenges. In this article, you will find valuable tips and advice on how to make breastfeeding successful, to give your child the best start in life.

Table of Contents

  • The most important tips for starting breastfeeding
  • The best breastfeeding positions for a comfortable nursing time
  • Support with a nursing pillow
  • Milk production and milk quantity
  • Breast milk strengthens the immune system
  • Emotional bonding through breastfeeding and bonding
  • Important recommendations for a successful nursing period

The Most Important Tips for Starting Breastfeeding

Prepare early for breastfeeding! Regardless of your childbirth preparation course, an additional breastfeeding preparation course can help develop the necessary knowledge and confidence for the first weeks of breastfeeding.

The best breastfeeding positions for a comfortable nursing time

Choosing the right nursing position is crucial to avoid pain and make breastfeeding comfortable for you and your baby. The classic cradle hold is popular but often challenging for “new mothers.” Here are some tips for putting it into practice:

  • Make sure that your baby lies at the breast with an open mouth, slightly tilted backward, and the head in a neutral position.
  • Recommendation: Start with the cross-cradle hold, where you can better support your baby's head and neck. (See picture on the right)

Support with a nursing pillow

Nursing pillows are ideal for relieving the back and neck. Thanks to the firm support, a sturdy nursing pillow provides extra support for your baby and you. Make sure to choose a firm pillow that fits well and eases the back during nursing.

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 bursts with every breastfeeding. Prolactin is responsible for the amount of milk and reaches its peak at one o’clock at night. Especially in the evening, babies often need increased closeness and breastfeeding sessions, the so-called “cluster feeding.” This frequent nursing is a natural mechanism to boost milk production for the next day.

Mother's milk strengthens the body's defense system

Mother's milk contains a wealth of important nutrients and antibodies that strengthen your baby's defense system. Breastfed babies have a lower risk of illnesses such as middle ear infections, respiratory infections, and stomach and bowel diseases¹. By breastfeeding regularly on demand, you promote milk production and ensure that your baby is optimally nourished.

Emotional connection 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 safety and closeness. This emotional exchange is an important building block for a successful breastfeeding period.

Important recommendations for a successful breastfeeding period:

  • Find a comfortable nursing position that supports you and your baby.

  • Pay attention to proper latching to avoid pain and breastfeeding difficulties.

  • Promotes milk production through frequent nursing and bonding.

  • Do not hesitate to seek expert help if you have questions or problems.

We wish you many special moments on your breastfeeding journey. With these tips, you can fully experience the time together and give your baby a healthy start in life.

Source:
¹ https://eur04.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov%2F16300936%2F&data=05%7C02%7CBenita.Triesch%40sterntaler.com%7C97e74fce64854d9b38ee08dca1785578%7C1f5f41492ea04d6baebb0e4cd73d03f6%7C1%7C0%7C638562785407068685%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=z6VbBRtltydzcRW1ESlSkwoYZu8kP%2BjAlEMnQaxmK7k%3D&reserved=0

Verena Keller
Verena Keller is a mother of three children and works as an experienced early childhood educator. As a certified breastfeeding expert, she guides families through the challenges of nursing and supports parents with valuable advice and understanding.

Mehr Informationen über Verena Keller findest du hier.

Back to the magazine