Five Tips to Be Prepared to Breastfeed Right After Birth: ♥️ From Your Homesteading Doula
Hey there, mama-to-be! As you prepare for the beautiful adventure of bringing your little one into the world, there’s one thing you’ll want to keep at the top of your list: breastfeeding. It's a deeply natural bonding experience, one that connects you and your baby unlike any other. Whether you’re a first-time mom or have breastfed before, preparing for that first latch can make a world of difference.
As a homesteading doula, I know the importance of approaching birth and breastfeeding with patience, knowledge, and a touch of the earthiness that nature provides. Here are five tips to help you feel confident and ready to breastfeed right after birth.
1. Trust Your Body and Your Baby’s Instincts
Your body is designed for this. Just as the plants in your garden know when to bloom, your body knows how to nourish your baby. It may take a little practice and patience but trust that you and your little one are equipped with all the tools needed for this beautiful connection.
Babies are born with innate feeding instincts, often called rooting—where they instinctively search for the breast. In the hours following birth, your baby will likely be calm, alert, and eager to latch. Trust this process, and don’t rush it. Allow your little one to find their way to your breast in their own time.
Tip: If you're planning a natural or home birth, try skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth. This early bonding helps stimulate milk production and encourages your baby to latch.
2. Set Up a Calm, Cozy Space
Whether you're at home or in the hospital, setting up a serene and welcoming space for breastfeeding is key. As a homesteading mama, I recommend creating a comfortable nook where you can relax and enjoy the moment. Think soft pillows, a cozy chair, and a warm, quiet atmosphere.
Tip: Lighting can make a difference! Try using soft, natural light (or even candlelight, if safe) to help create a peaceful environment. Nature is gentle and calming, and you can draw on that same energy as you settle into breastfeeding.
3. Have Breastfeeding Supplies Ready
While breastfeeding is a natural process, there are a few supplies that can make life a little easier in those early days. Here’s what you might need:
Nursing pads: These are a lifesaver to avoid leaking onto your clothes.
A good nursing bra: Something soft and supportive that allows easy access for feeding.
Lanolin or coconut oil: For soothing sore nipples during those first days of adjusting.
A breastfeeding pillow: This can help with positioning and comfort, especially in the early days when you’re learning the ropes.
4. Start Breastfeeding as Soon as Possible
The sooner you start breastfeeding after birth, the better for both you and your baby. Your colostrum, the thick, yellowish “first milk,” is packed with antibodies and nutrition to help protect your baby during those first precious days.
The first hour after birth is a magical time. After the initial checks and bonding moments, try to breastfeed your baby right away. This encourages your body to start producing more milk, stimulates your baby’s reflexes, and strengthens that special bond.
Tip: If you’re in a hospital let your care team know your desire to breastfeed right away. Sometimes, interventions can make this harder, so it’s good to have a supportive team that understands your goals.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for Help
Even though breastfeeding is natural, it can sometimes take a bit of time and patience to get it just right. Don’t be afraid to reach out for support, whether it’s from a lactation consultant, a fellow mama, or your doula (like me!).
I’m a firm believer in community, and you don’t have to do this alone. When you're home and settling in, there are plenty of resources available to guide you—be it online support groups or books that offer valuable insights. And don’t forget to trust your own instincts too.
Tip: If you encounter challenges like a poor latch or soreness, remember that these can be temporary hurdles. With time, patience, and proper guidance, you’ll find your rhythm.
Breastfeeding is a beautiful, organic process that connects mama and baby in ways words can’t quite capture. With a little preparation and the right mindset, you'll be ready to nourish your baby in the way nature intended. Take it slow, trust yourself, and remember that you’re doing something extraordinary.
And hey, mama, as you embark on this journey, be sure to lean into the homesteading spirit of simplicity, self-reliance, and a whole lot of love. You've got this! 💕
