Here are Kathy’s four tips for success:

Let friends and family know you’ll need support while establishing breastfeeding

Kathy recommends telling loved ones you’ll need space and quiet time while establishing breastfeeding. To ensure sustained milk production, breastfeeding early, frequently and effectively is key. It takes approximately six weeks until full milk production is established. “Prepare family and friends for this period by telling them they can support you in a number of ways, like doing laundry, running errands, walking the dog, meal preparation and cleaning,” says Kathy. “People want to help when there’s a new baby and this provides some helpful suggestions.”

Tell your care team you’re interested in breastfeeding

Communicating your intent to breastfeed – with your midwife, obstetrician or family physician – is key before having your baby. Kathy is quick to note that your care team should have this on their radar too, and can answer any questions or concerns you may have. Make a note of breast changes during pregnancy, and practice gentle breast massage in preparation to breastfeed, suggests Kathy.

Research the value of skin-to-skin contact immediately after your baby is born

By initiating skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth, and continuing until after the first successful breastfeed, you’re setting yourself up for success. Not only does this contact establish the bond between you and your baby, it also signals to your body to start making milk and colostrum. Colostrum is the nutrient-filled fluid produced before milk is released, which can help boost your baby’s immune system and protect them from illnesses in their first few months.

Ask for help or support if you need it

Breastfeeding, like parenting, is a process. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and support along the way.

Here are some additional, trusted online resources for more information:

• Reliable scientific resources are available at Health Canada, Unicef and the World Health Organization
• Peer support is offered by LaLeche League and Breastfeeding Buddies
• Prenatal information is available on ca as well as Toronto Public Health

The post Four tips from a lactation consultant for establishing breastfeeding appeared first on Your Health Matters.

International Board Certified Lactation Consultants, also known as IBCLCs, help women who are experiencing breastfeeding problems such as latching difficulties, painful breastfeeding and low milk supply. Lactation consultants provide women with information about pumping and storing breastmilk when they are returning to work or school, and also help women if their babies are not gaining enough weight.

For breastfeeding women with questions or having issues, they can provide a unique body of knowledge and skill in routine and high-risk situations. Ultimately, this improves breastfeeding outcomes.

Many families want to know, “When should I call a lactation consultant?” You should call if you:

• have difficulty latching your baby;
• experience pain while breastfeeding;
• notice unusual lumps or redness in your breast;
• think your milk supply is low;
• are concerned about medications and breastfeeding;
• need help with weaning;
• need help with returning to work or school, or;
• have any questions or concerns about breastfeeding

Lactation consultants can also help if your baby:

• breastfeeds less than 8 times in 24 hours in the first 6 weeks;
• is not having 5-6 wet diapers in 24 hours in the first 6 weeks;
• is not gaining enough weight or you are worried about your baby’s weight, or;
• seems fussy at your breast or refuses to breastfeed.

You’ll find International Board Certified Lactation Consultants working in a variety of places including hospitals, clinics, and doctors’ offices, some have their own private practice.

They can assess you and your baby breastfeeding and then provide you with helpful strategies for your specific situation.

It’s normal to have questions and concerns during breastfeeding. To find a lactation consultant in your area, please visit the International Lactation Consultant Association.

If you are a health care practitioner, please visit our Breastfeeding Centre of Excellence.

Another great reference can be found at on the International Lactation Consultant Association’s website.

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