Tips for longer breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is an amazing, natural & bonding experience and although the majority of mothers these days tend to bottle feed, we all know that breastmilk is better for a baby. When I fell pregnant with Amelia, I decided to breastfeed - but it didn't go as planned. We only managed 3 months, due to fault of my own. I wasn't 'into' it enough, I occasionally gave her a bottle and ended up stopping breastfeeding all together.

I have decided that I will be trying again to with Ezra - I won't be buying any bottles, and during feeding I will think more about the connection between me and my baby, instead of sitting waiting for him to be finished. Because I have bottle and breastfed, I can make comparisons.


Photo from pinterest

  • Breastfeeding is free.
  • You don't have to get up during the night to make bottles.
  • Breast milk is the perfect temperature.
  • It's natural, and although powder is made to be as close to breastmilk as possible - it's not breastmilk.
  • Baby is less likely to get colic (Amelia suffered really bad after we stopped breastfeeding)
  • Helps you lose pregnancy weight.
  • Less likely to fall pregnant straight away if you are feeding.
  • It's always there.
I plan on feeding Ezra for at least a year, and I feel that by giving myself a target it's more likely to happen. Here are a few tips which I think will help successful feeding -
  • Be comfortable during feeding, use pillows and wear suitable clothing.
  • Have snacks and a drink close by - feeding really drains your energy so it's good to top yourself up while you are feeding baby.
  • Use a good nipple cream if you need one - If you are in pain, you need to soothe yourself. Cracked nipples can turn horrible and this could cause you to have to stop feeding.
  • Allow baby to established a good latch - if he is feeding contently, try not to move him. Let him feed until he unattaches himself.
  • Put scratch mits on baby - They tend to rub you while they feed which can cause you some painful scratches.
  • Find your most comfortable positions to feed in - there are lots to try.
Can you add any tips to help maintain a good feeding habit?

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