Before giving birth
to my oldest daughter, Kay, I was determined to breastfeed. I was taught that
breastfeeding was the best and healthiest option for my baby. So I was excited.
The first time I breastfed was a different experience than I had expected.
While it was lovely and an amazing thought to know that my body was able to
produce nutrients for a living being, I was not aware that it would hurt.
I had a c-section with my first child as well because at the
last minute, even after I’d dilated 8 or 10 centimeters, she’d managed to turn
herself around. But I didn’t realize how much breast feeding affects the area
where the incision was made. Whenever I would put my daughter to my breast to nurse,
I would feel a pain, not only in my breasts but around the incision area. One
of the lactation nurses at the hospital explained to me that when you’re
breastfeeding, your body contracts and you can really feel it when you’ve had a
cesarean. I remember being in pain so bad to the point where I was in tears. I honestly
felt like giving up at one point, but then I realized and remembered that this
wasn’t just for me, breastfeeding was for my daughter’s health.
I will be completely truthful and admit that it actually
took a couple of months for me to get use to breastfeeding. By then, I had a
couple of techniques that I would use while breastfeeding to make it a less
stressful situation:
1.
Eat and drink water while breastfeeding
i.
As long as the baby was positioned correctly
with pillows and one arm providing support, I would have a hand free to do
other stuff. Having water near, as well as keeping your body relaxed, hydrated
and your mind off of the nursing.
2.
Create a relaxed environment
i.
I would love nursing while laying in the bed,
being completely surrounded with pillows, music playing, the lights dim and
even lighting a candle.
Even now with my second daughter, I still cringe a little,
but now that I have more experience with breastfeeding and how to properly do
so, it seems like a piece of cake.
If you’re a new mother and planning to breastfeed, remember:
- · It’s very important to relax
- · Stay hydrated
- · Try to nurse in a quiet room
- · Consult a lactation specialist if needed or go online and chat with someone at the La Leche League www.llli.org
- Breastfeeding Mom :-)
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