Breastfeeding: A Gentle Journey, Step by Step

Breastfeeding is a unique, intimate experience that creates a lasting bond between a mother and her baby. Although it often comes instinctively, it can also raise plenty of questions. To help you through this journey, let's look together at the different stages of breastfeeding, from pregnancy right through to going back to work.

Pregnancy: preparing body and mind

• Let those around you know: talking about your plans to breastfeed with your doctor, your midwife and those closest to you means you can benefit from tailored advice and invaluable support.
• Do your research: plenty of books, websites and support groups offer reliable information on breastfeeding. Do read up on it so you feel more confident.
• Choose your maternity unit: some maternity units are more breastfeeding-friendly than others. Find out about the practices at the one you've chosen.

The birth: those first feeds

• Skin-to-skin: straight after birth, skin-to-skin contact encourages your milk to come in and makes those first feeds easier.
• Baby's position: a good position helps your baby latch on properly and feed effectively.
• Help from a midwife or lactation consultant: if you run into any difficulties, don't hesitate to ask for help.

The first few days: settling in

• How often to feed: in the early days, your baby will feed very often, on demand. That's completely normal!
• Signs of a good feed: a well-latched baby opens their mouth wide, takes in a good part of the areola and swallows steadily.
• Soreness: pain during a feed can be down to a poor latch. Don't hesitate to see a lactation consultant.

The weeks that follow: finding your rhythm

• Your milk coming in: this usually happens between the 3rd and 5th day after the birth.
• Engorgement: this can happen if your baby doesn't feed often enough or if the milk isn't flowing well.
• Supplements: in some cases, supplements may be needed. Talk it through with your doctor or midwife.

The first few months: breastfeeding as it develops

• Introducing solids: this usually starts at around 6 months. Breastfeeding can carry on alongside it.
• Your periods returning: this can change the taste of your milk and your supply.
• Going back to work: it's perfectly possible to breastfeed and work. Plan ahead so you can express your milk and give it to your baby.

Accessories to make breastfeeding easier

To support you as best they can on this journey, plenty of accessories can come in handy:

• The breast pump: it lets you express your milk to give to your baby when you're away, or to boost your supply.
• Nursing pillows: they give both you and your baby comfortable support during feeds.
• The nursing bracelet: both practical and pretty, it keeps the key breastfeeding details right at your fingertips.
• The nursing necklace: a discreet piece of jewellery that gently keeps your baby's attention during feeds in public.
• The newborn gift set: a perfect gift idea for new mums, it can include an assortment of breastfeeding accessories.

In conclusion

Breastfeeding is a rich and rewarding experience that takes time, patience and a willingness to listen. Don't hesitate to get support from healthcare professionals and to chat with other breastfeeding mums.

Babanono is here to support you through this lovely adventure with a carefully designed selection of breastfeeding accessories, all endlessly personalisable.

And what about you — how did you find breastfeeding? Share your tips and stories in the comments!