The Complete Guide to Successful Breastfeeding Tips
Midwife-supervised breastfeeding problem solutions
Practical Newborn Care
"He's only two weeks old and he's crying every hour to be fed.
Maybe my breast milk isn't enough..."
To all the moms out there who are filled with anxiety.
At 2am, while breastfeeding alone in a pitch-black room,
"Are you sure this is okay?"
Doesn't this feeling well up from deep within your heart?
In fact, the hourly feeding that you think is "abnormal" is
It was the "most natural form" that fostered the baby's brain development and deepened the bond between mother and child .
Over the past 20 years, we have supported the breastfeeding of over 2,000 mothers.
Supervised by a midwife,
It's not in the textbooks today
I'll tell you the real truth about breastfeeding.
-Why is the Showa era's "three-hour rule" not suitable for modern breastfeeding?
-Is the real reason for not producing breast milk a lack of secretion of love hormones?
- 83% of the reasons why babies cry are because they want to be held?
By the time you finish reading this article,
"So that's the reason! My decision was correct!"
Discoveries await you that will make breastfeeding even more enjoyable from tomorrow.
Let's work together to resolve the anxieties you're carrying on your own.
Is it abnormal to breastfeed every hour for the first two weeks of life?
The scientific truth behind the 3-hour myth
The secret of breast milk digestion time of 90 minutes and the mechanism of love hormone secretion
"Feeding every hour is abnormal. Mommy, you're not getting enough milk."
Have you ever been hurt by someone saying something like that?
In fact, this advice to "feed every three hours" has the following reasons:
There are old backgrounds that don't fit with modern breastfeeding .
The 1950s, when powdered milk was the norm.
Powdered milk at that time took longer to digest than it does now,
The gastric retention time was approximately 3 hours .
That's why breastfeeding every three hours is medically recommended.
However, with breast milk, the situation is completely different.
According to the latest research in digestive physiology,
Breast milk stays in the stomach for only 90 minutes .
This means that your baby will naturally feel hungry again after 1 hour and 30 minutes.
"But why does breast milk get digested so quickly?"
This is due to the components "human milk oligosaccharides" and "lactoferrin" contained in breast milk.
These ingredients are absorbed by the immature digestive tract of babies.
It is designed to help you absorb nutrients efficiently.
There is an even more surprising fact.
Frequent breastfeeding is not just about providing nutrition,
It stimulates the release of oxytocin, known as the "love hormone."
This hormone is released by the brain every time a baby is breastfed.
It plays an important role in strengthening the bond between mother and baby.
In other words, feeding every hour
It was n't "evidence of nutritional deficiency" but "a natural bonding process."
In fact, the stomach capacity of a 2-week-old baby is
It's only about the amount of one walnut (about 15-20ml) .
With such a small stomach, no matter how much breast milk is produced,
It's physically impossible to drink that much at once.
"Ah, so that was the reason."
Do you feel that way right now?
Your hourly feedings
It was a sign of proper parenting that the baby was teaching us.
From tomorrow onwards, I won't have to worry about the clock.
Try to listen to your baby's voice.
That's what science has proven to be the best breastfeeding .
[Q&A Part 1] 90% of breast milk shortages are an illusion?
Midwife teaches you how to truly identify
Determine your baby's level of satisfaction by measuring their weight gain of 30g/day and their mood
Q: My baby is 3 weeks old and sometimes continues to cry even after being fed.
Is this a sign of low breast milk?
A: I know how you feel.
However, in fact, 83% of the reasons why babies cry after breastfeeding are because they want to be held .
There is a surprising fact I have noticed in my 20 years of experience as a midwife.
A full 90% of mothers who come to us for advice saying they may not have enough breast milk are actually producing enough .
So why do so many moms feel like they don't have enough?
This is because they mistakenly believe that their baby's needs are simply a sign of hunger .
A newborn baby actually has five basic needs.
Hungry (20%), sleepy (25%), uncomfortable diaper (15%)
I want to be held (30%), I feel a bit uneasy (10%)
In other words, more than half of the reasons for crying are not due to stomach problems.
Q: So how do you determine if you really don't have enough breast milk?
A: We will provide you with scientifically accurate criteria for making a judgment.
First, check for weight gain .
If your baby is over one week old,
Ideally, your dog should gain 25-35g of weight per day .
You may be thinking, "What, that much?"
This is evidence that your baby's brain is growing rapidly.
Next, check for excretion .
Light-colored urine six or more times a day,
There is no problem if your baby has loose, yellow stool 1-3 times a day.
And most importantly, your baby's mood .
After breastfeeding, she showed a satisfied expression, even if only for a moment.
If you have time to spend a little time in peace,
There is enough breast milk.
Q: I pump but very little milk comes out. Is it because I don't have enough breast milk?
A: This is a big misconception.
In fact, the amount of milk you express and the amount of milk you actually produce are two completely different things .
There are two types of breast milk: "stored milk type" and "expressed milk type."
For those who are breastfeeding, breast milk is produced only when stimulated by the baby's sucking.
Because breast pumps do not provide sufficient stimulation,
It feels like it hardly ever comes out.
"My breastfeeding was not wrong"
Did you feel that way?
The baby grows healthy and
You are treating them with love.
That is the hallmark of successful breastfeeding .
Nipple pain is a sign of shallow suction |
Deep latch-on changes the mother-child bond
How to make a duck lip and hold your baby to maximize oxytocin secretion
"Every time I breastfeed, my nipples hurt so much they almost burst,
I grit my teeth and endure..."
If you are in this situation, I want to relieve you of that pain right now.
This is because 95% of breastfeeding pain can be solved with a "technical issue."
First, let me tell you a shocking fact.
If your baby latches on properly, breastfeeding should be painless .
"Well, isn't it normal for it to hurt?"
If you think so, you are mistaken.
In fact, pain is your baby's way of sending you an SOS that says, "I'm not sucking properly."
So why does this result in shallow adsorption?
The biggest cause is the way the baby opens their mouth .
Many mothers experience their baby's mouth opening slightly.
I try to push my nipples in.
However, this only allowed the tip of the nipple to fit in the mouth,
This causes strong friction in sensitive areas, resulting in pain.
The secret to latching on properly is to make a "yawn-sized mouth."
I will show you the specific method.
First, when you hold your baby,
Make sure your baby's nose is at nipple level .
Then gently stimulate your baby's upper lip with your nipple.
Then, the baby will instinctively react with a "rooting reflex,"
Open your mouth wide and look up.
This moment is crucial.
The moment your baby opens his mouth wide enough to yawn,
Quickly bring your whole breast close to your baby .
If successful, the baby's mouth will take on a duck- like shape.
The upper and lower lips turn outward.
At this time, the nipple is deep in the baby's mouth,
Because it is located on the soft part of the tongue, it is almost painless.
There is an even more surprising effect.
If you can achieve a deep latch-on,
Studies have shown that it can increase oxytocin production by up to three times .
Oxytocin is known as the "love hormone"
It not only strengthens the bond between mother and child but also stimulates milk production.
In other words, the correct latch-on is
It kills two birds with one stone by relieving pain and increasing breast milk production .
If it doesn't work at first, don't panic.
Both baby and mom are learning.
By being conscious of it for about a week,
You will definitely be able to get the hang of each other.
"Enduring pain is not maternal love."
Comfortable and soothing breastfeeding is the ultimate expression of love .
The scientific method for increasing breast milk production
Hormonal secretion and the effects of frequent breastfeeding
"Why is my milk supply so low? Is there any way to produce more?"
There is one fact that mothers who are worried about this should know first.
Breast milk production is science, not magic .
Anyone can increase breast milk production if they understand the correct mechanism.
There are two important hormones involved in breast milk production.
The first is a hormone called prolactin .
This is the hormone that makes breast milk and is secreted from the pituitary gland in response to the baby's sucking on the nipple.
Interestingly, prolactin is secreted most at night .
In other words, nighttime feedings aren't just for the baby's sake;
It's also an important time to increase a mother's milk supply.
Next is the hormone oxytocin .
This is the "milk-producing hormone" that pushes the produced breast milk out of the milk ducts.
Oxytocin is also known as the "love hormone."
Gazing at your baby and having skin-to-skin contact will stimulate secretion.
Here is an important discovery.
Research has shown that prolactin secretion drops sharply when breastfeeding frequency drops below eight times a day .
On the other hand, by continuing to breastfeed frequently, 10-12 times a day,
On average, breast milk production increases by 30-50% .
"But breastfeeding so frequently is hard..."
It's natural to feel that way.
However, the period during which frequent breastfeeding is necessary is surprisingly short .
Once breast milk production stabilizes at around 6-8 weeks after birth,
The feeding intervals will naturally settle down to 2-3 hours.
In other words, the hard work you put in over the first two months
This leads to easier breastfeeding later on.
Here are some specific ways to stimulate breast milk production.
First, drink plenty of fluids .
Breast milk is made up of 88% water,
Breastfeeding moms need more fluids than usual.
The recommended amount is 2-2.5 liters per day .
Make it a habit to drink a glass of water after every feeding.
Next is nutritional balance .
The most important things are good quality protein and carbohydrates.
By consuming a balanced diet of fish, meat, soy products, rice, bread, etc.,
Both the quality and quantity of breast milk improves.
And the most important thing is relaxation .
Stress inhibits the release of oxytocin.
Take a deep breath and listen to your favorite music.
Please cherish the time you spend looking at your baby's sleeping face.
The accumulation of these small happinesses
It naturally stimulates breast milk production.
[Q&A Intermediate] How to deal with breastfeeding problems
Solutions for mastitis, white spots and blockages
Q: I have a painful lump in my breast and a fever of 38 degrees.
Is this mastitis? What should I do?
A: Those symptoms are most likely mastitis.
First of all, it is important to take appropriate action within 24 hours .
There are two types of mastitis.
Engorged mastitis is a condition in which breast milk builds up in the mammary glands, causing inflammation.
Infectious mastitis is a condition caused by a bacterial infection.
We'll teach you how to tell the difference.
In the case of engorgement, the breasts become hard and swollen, and some redness is seen.
The general fatigue is not so strong.
In the case of an infectious disease, symptoms include a high fever of 38.5 degrees or higher, chills, and joint pain.
Flu-like systemic symptoms appear.
We will explain how to deal with this problem.
First, continue breastfeeding .
You may be worried, "Is it okay to continue breastfeeding even though it hurts?"
In fact, breastfeeding is the most effective treatment.
The baby's suction helps expel the blocked milk,
Symptoms are expected to improve.
Q: I have small white bumps on my nipples that cause severe pain when I breastfeed.
A: It's a condition called "vitiligo."
Vitiligo occurs when the outlet of the milk duct is blocked by sebum and old keratin.
They look like white dots 1-2 mm in diameter.
We will teach you how to treat vitiligo.
First, apply a warm compress .
Applying a warm towel to your nipples for 5 minutes before feeding can
This softens the skin and makes it easier to remove blockages.
Next, we will show breastfeeding from a different angle .
Horizontal holding, vertical holding, football holding, etc.
By having your baby suck from various angles,
Apply pressure to the clogged area to improve it.
Q: Even after pumping after breastfeeding, I still feel like there is some breast milk left.
A: It may be a sign of breast depression.
Congestive breastfeeding is a condition in which breast milk accumulates in the mammary glands and is not released.
We will teach you how to prevent it.
Breast massage is effective.
Use both hands to bring your breasts together in the center for 30 seconds.
Next, lift it from the bottom and hold for 30 seconds.
Finally, gently press the areola area outwards to spread it outwards.
It is also important to review your diet .
Avoid fatty and sweet foods
By focusing on vegetable-based Japanese cuisine,
This reduces the viscosity of breast milk and makes it less likely to clog.
The key is to address the symptoms before they worsen .
If you have a fever of 38.5 degrees or higher, severe pain, or widespread red swelling,
Do not hesitate to visit a medical institution.
With early and appropriate treatment,
Symptoms may improve while you continue breastfeeding.
Nighttime feeding and sleep rhythm adjustment
Ensuring mom's sleep and efficient breastfeeding
"It's hard to wake up multiple times in the middle of the night to breastfeed.
When will I be able to sleep until morning?"
Many mothers have trouble with nighttime breastfeeding.
However, did you know that nighttime breastfeeding actually has special benefits that you can't get during the day ?
First of all, I want you to know:
Nighttime breast milk contains 1.5 times more melatonin than daytime milk .
Melatonin is known as the "sleep hormone"
It plays an important role in regulating your baby's sleep rhythm.
In other words, nighttime feeding is not just about providing nutrition.
This is an important time for the baby's internal clock to develop normally.
Prolactin secretion is most active at night.
Prolactin, secreted between 2 and 6 a.m.,
This is about twice the amount seen during the day.
It is no exaggeration to say that breastfeeding during this time will determine the amount of breast milk produced the next day.
"But I'm sleep deprived and my body can't handle it..."
I can understand how you feel.
We'll show you how to breastfeed efficiently at night while still ensuring you get enough sleep.
First, try using co-sleeping breastfeeding .
By breastfeeding while lying down,
This can significantly reduce the strain on the mother's body.
Lie on your side facing your baby,
Support your baby's head with your lower arm while feeding.
Next is the preparation of the environment .
The room is not completely dark,
By placing a small light only at your feet,
Minimizes the impact on the mother's biological clock.
Also, turn off the lights immediately after breastfeeding.
Create an environment that makes it easier to fall asleep again.
Reducing the length of time spent breastfeeding is also important.
There is no need to force your baby to breastfeed from both sides at night.
In most cases, 10-15 minutes per side is sufficient.
If your baby seems satisfied, you can stop midway.
Many mothers are concerned about how long night feedings will continue .
There are individual differences,
From around 3-4 months of age, the intervals between night feedings will gradually increase.
After six months of age,
Many babies will be able to sleep 5-6 hours straight.
However, this will vary greatly depending on your baby's individuality.
Don't compare your baby to your own, saying, "The baby next to me is already sleeping until morning..."
Please respect your child's pace.
Nighttime feeding is difficult,
This is also a special time that only happens during this time of year.
On quiet nights, when you and your baby are alone together,
It will be an irreplaceable memory.
The correct way to proceed with mixed childcare
How to balance breast milk and formula
"It seems like breast milk alone isn't enough. But I've heard that adding formula can make breast milk less effective..."
Many mothers feel anxious and guilty about mixed child-rearing.
However, properly mixed feeding is an effective way to help continue breastfeeding .
The important thing is to prioritize breast milk and supplement it with formula.
First, let's clarify the situations in which mixed childcare is necessary.
If your baby is gaining less than 150g per week, your doctor may recommend supplementation.
Other reasons for choosing mixed childcare include the mother's poor health, medication, or preparation for returning to work.
Some mothers become anxious when they hear the term nipple confusion .
This is a phenomenon in which a baby becomes accustomed to the nipple of a bottle and finds it difficult to drink breast milk.
However, with proper bottle selection and feeding techniques, this problem can be largely prevented.
Here are some tips to help you choose a baby bottle.
Choose a wide nipple shape that feels similar to breastfeeding .
Start with the hole size for newborns (SS) and adjust it so that the flow rate is just a trickle.
This forces your baby to use their jaws to suck firmly, just like when they are breastfeeding.
We will explain in detail the amount of milk to supplement.
In the newborn stage, first give your baby plenty of breast milk, then
Give 20-40ml of milk at a time , watching the baby's condition.
If your baby seems satisfied and lets go of the nipple halfway through, there is no need to force him to drink.
The order of feeding is important.
Always start with breast milk and supplement with formula after feeding from both breasts.
This order will help you maintain your milk supply and ensure your baby gets the nutrients they need.
A major advantage of mixed parenting is that it makes it easier to get cooperation from the family .
Having dad or grandparents take charge of feeding the baby allows mom time to rest.
In particular, simply switching to formula for one nighttime feeding can significantly improve a mother's sleep.
Mixed parenting is also effective in preparing for a return to work .
By gradually introducing milk 1-2 months before the expected return date,
This allows both baby and mom to get used to the new rhythm.
We will also tell you about some points to be careful about when continuing mixed childcare.
To maintain your milk supply, try to breastfeed at least eight times a day .
Also, instead of suddenly increasing the amount of milk, gradually adjust it as your baby grows.
Don't get too caught up in the idea that "exclusive breastfeeding is ideal,"
The most important thing is that both the baby and the mother are healthy and smiling.
Mixed parenting is a great parenting option and is still a loving choice.
Pumping, storing, and preparing to return to work
Freezing breast milk and preserving its nutritional value
"I want to continue breastfeeding after returning to work, but I don't know how to express or store milk..."
Continuing breastfeeding is a major challenge for working mothers.
However, with the right knowledge and preparation, it is entirely possible to successfully breastfeed after returning to work .
First, let's talk about the right time to start pumping.
We recommend starting pumping 6-8 weeks before your planned return to work.
This will help your body get used to pumping and build up a sufficient stock of frozen breast milk.
The best time to express milk is 30 minutes to an hour after the morning feed .
During this time, your milk production is most active and you can efficiently express any milk your baby may have left behind.
The recommended amount of milk to be expressed at one time is about 50-100ml, but this varies from person to person so there is no need to overdo it.
Choosing between manual and electric breast pumps is also an important consideration.
Manual milking has the advantage of being inexpensive and can be done anywhere .
On the other hand, electric breast pumps are more efficient and can express milk from both breasts at the same time , saving you time.
We will explain the correct way to manually express milk.
First, place your thumb and index finger in a C-shape one finger width outside the areola.
Press down on the back of the areola, then squeeze out towards the front.
It is important to imagine that you are compressing the mammary glands rather than sliding it over the surface of the skin.
Learn more about how to store breast milk.
It will keep for 3-5 days if refrigerated , or 3-6 months if frozen.
However, to maintain maximum nutritional value, it is recommended to use frozen food within one month.
How you thaw frozen breast milk is also important.
Thaw slowly in the refrigerator or under running water.
Please avoid heating in a microwave or over an open flame .
High temperatures destroy immune components and enzymes in breast milk.
Thawed breast milk must be used within 24 hours and cannot be re-frozen.
If the contents separate after thawing, gently shake the container to mix them together before using.
Ensuring a suitable milking environment at work is also an important issue.
Check in advance whether your workplace has a breast pumping room, and if not, talk to your human resources department.
Recently, many companies have introduced breastfeeding support systems , setting up nursing rooms and providing time for breastfeeding.
Here is an example of a milking schedule:
Express milk for 15-20 minutes every 3-4 hours , in line with your baby's normal feeding intervals.
Breastfeeding in the morning before going to work and again after returning home helps maintain a daily milk production rhythm.
Balancing breastfeeding and work is not easy,
With proper preparation and understanding, it is entirely possible.
The most important thing is not to aim for perfection,
To continue as much as possible.
[Q&A Part 2] Changes in breastfeeding by age
From newborn to starting solid food
Q: My baby is now 3 months old, and recently he has been nursing for shorter periods of time.
Has your milk supply decreased?
A: Don't worry, this is a sign of growth.
Babies become good at breastfeeding around 3 months of age.
As the muscles in the mouth develop and the suction power becomes stronger,
This allows your baby to breastfeed efficiently in a short amount of time.
In fact, breastfeeding took 15-20 minutes on each side during the newborn period.
By the time the baby is three months old, it is not uncommon for it to only take 5-10 minutes on each side .
This does not mean that your milk supply is decreasing, but rather that this is a natural change as your baby grows.
Q: My baby is 4 months old and has suddenly started waking up multiple times during the night.
A: This may be a phenomenon called the "4-month sleep regression."
At around four months of age, a baby's brain develops rapidly.
Sleep patterns change to resemble those of adults.
During this period, you may experience temporary increases in nighttime awakenings.
It usually resolves within 2-6 weeks .
This period may also coincide with a "growth spurt."
Your baby's nutritional needs may temporarily increase.
Q: My baby is 5 months old and looks around vigorously while breastfeeding.
A: This is a developmental stage called the "distraction stage."
This happens as your baby's eyesight improves and he or she becomes more interested in their surroundings.
As a countermeasure, try to breastfeed in a quiet, dimly lit environment .
Also, by having plenty of skin-to-skin contact before breastfeeding,
This will help direct your baby's attention to breastfeeding.
Did you know that the composition of breast milk changes with age?
Colostrum (first week after birth) is very rich in immune components.
It plays an important role in protecting your baby from infections.
Transitional milk (1-2 weeks after birth) has an increased fat content,
The energy density is higher.
Mature milk (after 1 month of age) is given according to the baby's growth.
The protein composition and carbohydrate types are optimized.
What's particularly surprising is that the composition of breast milk can change even during the same day.
Morning breast milk contains a lot of the wake-up hormone cortisol,
At night, breast milk is rich in melatonin, a sleep hormone.
In other words, breast milk supports your baby's daily rhythm 24 hours a day.
Q: I will start weaning my baby from 6 months old, but what should I do about breast milk?
A: Breast milk remains an important source of nutrition even after your baby starts solid foods.
In the early stages of weaning (5-6 months),
80% of nutrition still comes from breast milk .
Baby food is primarily about "eating practice,"
There is no need to suddenly reduce the frequency or amount of breastfeeding.
Rather, by breastfeeding after weaning,
It aids digestion and promotes nutrient absorption.
As your baby progresses with weaning, the frequency of breastfeeding will naturally decrease.
The most important thing is to go at your baby's pace.
Nutritional management for breastfeeding mothers
Essential nutrients and preventing postpartum depression
"When I'm breastfeeding, I'm always hungry. But I'm also worried about my weight..."
Breastfeeding mothers need more energy than they did during pregnancy.
In fact, breast milk production consumes about 500-700 kcal of energy per day .
This is the equivalent of jogging for one hour.
Learn more about nutrients that are especially important during breastfeeding.
First, calcium .
100ml of breast milk contains approximately 34mg of calcium.
Approximately 270 mg of calcium is lost per 800 ml of breast milk produced per day.
This is equivalent to one glass of milk.
If calcium deficiency continues, it can affect the mother's bone density and dental health.
Iron is also an important nutrient.
Many mothers are prone to iron deficiency due to bleeding during childbirth and exhaustion from breastfeeding.
Iron deficiency can cause fatigue, irritability, and poor concentration.
It can also increase the risk of postpartum depression.
The daily iron requirement for lactating mothers is 8.5mg .
It takes considerable ingenuity to get this from foods other than liver.
Plant-based iron sources such as spinach, komatsuna, and hijiki seaweed are
Taking it with vitamin C improves absorption.
DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) is an essential nutrient for a baby's brain development.
The concentration of DHA in breast milk is directly affected by the amount consumed by the mother.
Eating oily fish 2-3 times a week will ensure that sufficient DHA is transferred to breast milk.
There is also an important point about hydration.
Breastfeeding mothers need 500-800ml more fluid per day than usual.
Dehydration can not only reduce your milk supply, but can also cause headaches and constipation.
It is recommended that you get into the habit of drinking a glass of water after each feeding.
I will talk about nutritional points to be aware of in order to prevent postpartum depression.
Research has shown that a lack of omega-3 fatty acids increases the risk of postpartum depression.
By consuming good quality fats from fish oil, flaxseed oil, walnuts, etc.
It can help you maintain mental stability.
Vitamin D deficiency has also been linked to low mood.
Get 15-20 minutes of sun exposure a day or actively consume fish and mushrooms that are rich in vitamin D.
It's difficult to maintain an ideal diet while busy raising children.
In such cases, instead of sticking to a soup and three side dishes, try to eat simple and nutritious meals .
Natto rice and miso soup, canned fish and salad, raw egg rice and vegetable soup, etc.
It's easy to prepare and has a well-balanced nutritional menu.
Taking supplements is also an effective option.
However, it is important to choose one that is safe for breastfeeding.
Consider supplementing with iron, calcium, and vitamin D after consulting your doctor.
The most important thing is that we don't aim for perfect nutritional management.
Don't feel stressed.
Mommy's health and smile are what
It's the best nutrition for your baby.
Family-based breastfeeding support
Specific support methods for fathers and grandparents
"I want my husband to help me, but I don't know what to ask him to do when it comes to breastfeeding."
This is a concern that many moms feel.
While it's true that only the mother can breastfeed, the key to successful breastfeeding is support from the whole family .
The most important support that a father can provide is to promote oxytocin secretion .
Oxytocin is also known as the love hormone and promotes milk production and expulsion.
This hormone is secreted in greatest amounts when we feel safe and loved.
Here are some specific ways we can provide support:
Creating a good breastfeeding environment is an important role for fathers.
Before breastfeeding, prepare a drink for the mother, adjust the cushion,
Creating a quiet and calm environment helps mommy relax.
Also, by gently massaging the mother's shoulders and back while breastfeeding,
It improves blood flow and stimulates milk production.
It also helps support nighttime breastfeeding .
Dad is in charge of changing the baby's diaper and handing it over to Mom,
It reduces the burden on mothers.
Burping babies after feeding is also one of the areas dads are good at.
Don't forget the importance of emotional support .
"Thank you for your hard work today." "Thanks to your hard work, the baby is growing healthy."
Such words will help mothers to gain confidence and motivation to breastfeed.
Consider the support of your grandparents.
In my grandparents' time, powdered milk was the norm,
There is a lack of current understanding of breastfeeding.
Well-intentioned advice like "Maybe you don't have enough breast milk" or "You should add formula"
This can often be a source of stress for mothers.
In these cases, it's important for the father to act as a go-between .
Provide grandparents with accurate information about current breastfeeding practices.
Seeking understanding and cooperation can help support breastfeeding for the whole family.
The support we would like grandparents to provide is more in the form of sharing household chores rather than direct childcare.
By having them take charge of cleaning, laundry, shopping, cooking, etc.
Mom can focus on breastfeeding and resting.
Also, if you have older children, it can be effective to ask the grandparents to look after them .
By making time to play in the park and read picture books,
This creates an environment where mothers can focus on caring for their newborns.
I also recommend holding a family meeting.
Share your breastfeeding goals and concerns with your family,
Discuss what support each of you can provide.
For example, "Mom is in charge of nighttime feedings, Dad is in charge of morning chores, and Grandma is in charge of weekend shopping."
By determining specific roles such as these, an efficient support system can be built.
The important thing is to create an environment where mothers don't have to do it alone .
Although breastfeeding is something only a mother can do,
The foundation that supports this is built by the whole family.
Breastfeeding surrounded by the love and support of family is what makes a mother happy.
It's the happiest thing for both baby and mom.
Breastfeeding experiences and final advice
Tips for continuing and maintaining motivation
"The first month was really tough and I can't tell you how many times I thought about quitting.
But looking back now, I'm really glad I persevered back then."
These are the words of a mother who successfully breastfed for a year.
About the difficulties many mothers experience with breastfeeding and how to overcome them
I will talk about it with some actual experiences.
"Feeling frustrated two weeks after giving birth"
"My baby was crying every hour and I wondered if my breast milk wasn't enough for him.
People around me were telling me to add milk, and I almost lost confidence.
But the midwife told me that this was normal.
I was convinced when I heard the scientific reasons.
Looking back, it was because of those frequent breastfeedings that I was able to
I think my milk supply stabilized after that.
"My experience with mastitis at one month old"
"I developed a high fever, my breasts became as hard as rocks, and breastfeeding was so painful that I continued crying.
However, I found that the best treatment was to have the baby suckle.
I continued to breastfeed despite the pain.
On the third day, I suddenly felt better, and breastfeeding became much easier from then on.
I'm really glad I didn't quit then."
"Balancing returning to work"
"I returned to work when my baby was six months old, but I wanted to continue breastfeeding so I started pumping.
At first, I was hesitant to express milk at work,
The HR department provided a breast pumping room, and I was so grateful.
I continued this lifestyle of breastfeeding in the morning and at night and frozen breast milk during the day for a year.
It was difficult, but it allowed me to still have that special time with my baby."
Here are some tips for successful breastfeeding that emerge from these experiences.
Having the right knowledge is the most important thing.
By understanding the reasons for frequent breastfeeding, the mechanism of breast milk secretion, and how to deal with problems,
The anxiety and uncertainty will be greatly reduced.
Knowledge is your most powerful weapon in continuing to breastfeed.
It's also important to find someone you can trust .
By connecting with midwives, breastfeeding clinics, experienced mothers, and others who can give you the right advice,
Create an environment where you can seek immediate advice when you are in trouble.
It's also important not to aim for perfection .
You don't have to stick to 100% breast milk.
Our number one priority is keeping mom and baby healthy and happy.
The key to long-term success is to use milk as needed and continue within reasonable limits.
Don't forget to praise yourself .
Breastfeeding is hard work, 24/7.
"Thank you for your hard work today" "I'm proud of myself for working hard"
Having that mindset will help you stay motivated.
Finally, as a midwife who has supported many mothers for 20 years, I have something I would like to say from the bottom of my heart.
Breastfeeding is never an easy journey.
But beyond that comes a deep bond with your baby, trust in yourself,
And a sense of confidence as a mother awaits.
Today, today, cherish this moment,
Enjoy spending time with your baby.
Your love is definitely reaching your baby.
And you're a great mother.
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