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The first time you hold your baby to breastfeed can be confusing. Their delicate growth, combined with the responsibility of properly positioning them for feeding, can be overwhelming. We had the opportunity to speak with Sam Cannizzaro, an experienced NICU nurse, Educator, IBCLC, and mom recently. Sam, who runs Baby Body Soul, is dedicated to helping mothers as they embrace motherhood.
A misconception that many mothers have is that simply connecting the baby’s mouth to the nipples ensures successful breastfeeding. However, as Sam shares there is a lot more to it before it becomes second nature.
Keep the body balanced
Getting back to the basics when it comes to breastfeeding is very important to getting it right. Making sure their head, neck, and torso fit together is important. This combination facilitates easy swallowing and reduces choking hazards. Think to yourself when you drink a glass of water, can you drink with your head turned sideways? Adding a slightly longer neck, which reminds us of our natural tilt when we drink, allows the baby’s chin to grip the breast more tightly, which makes the egg sit deeper. This space also cleverly helps your baby breathe easier when breastfeeding because there is more space between the breast and the nose.
Putting your hand in supporting your baby during breastfeeding is very important. Place the palm of your hand between your baby’s shoulders, making sure that your thumb and index / middle finger are not too high or too low with their ears instead of forcing their head to the breast. This stand provides stability and ensures a pressure-free latch. If you are concerned about head movement in this position, you can gently lean back and allow gravity to support the weight of your baby’s head.
Good planning
Sam explains to start by guiding your nipple to your baby’s nose. This method is closely related to the natural ability of breastfeeding. By doing this, when your baby opens, he takes a large part of the areola, especially under the nipple. This position gently nudges your baby to tilt his head back, opening the way for the mouth to open and a deep, painless latch.
A deep latch is the key to a well-filled feed and a little nipple softness. Ideally, a picture of the top of the areola should be seen when your baby is, showing that he has taken up a good portion of your breast. Remember, the number of visible areolas can vary depending on our unique shape. As Sam astutely put it, “a uniform latch around the nipple is not always a good sign and can sometimes cause damage and discomfort”.
Speaking bre-feeding the pain
A common myth is that breastfeeding is naturally painful, especially at first. Sam advises: “It’s normal to feel a little nervous about breastfeeding at first.” However, if the discomfort lasts more than 30 seconds, the belt may not be deep enough. When your baby doesn’t move deeply your nipple can get pressed into their mouth against their hard mouth which can cause pain and sore nipples. When your baby takes more of the breast tissue in his mouth, your nipple moves back and isn’t compressed evenly, which makes for a painless breastfeeding experience. As time goes by and your baby starts to grow you will find breastfeeding continues to be easier as these things become secondary.
Where can I find help and support for breastfeeding?
Nursing Assistants of Australia and New Zealand they can help you Find a lactation consultant near you.
Ask your doctor, midwife, obstetrician, or health care provider to connect you with a local lactation consultant. The Australian Breastfeeding Association has many resources available including a 24-hour helpline for new mothers, face-to-face consultations, and online classes.
We hope this post has provided some useful information and inspiration. If you found it helpful, please share it with other women who may be going through the same journey. And remember, we’re here to help you through every step of your breastfeeding journey. Check out our other blogs for tips, advice, and stories from the heart.
Click on the links below to read more on these topics:
Help I Think I Have Low Milk
Blocked Milk Ducts: Everything You Need to Know When Breastfeeding
Understanding Oxytocin: The Love Hormone and Its Role in Breastfeeding