In the first few weeks, the baby feeds eight to twelve times a day at the breast. Most children are very leisurely at first. They use the breastfeeding time for extensive cuddling and also like to sleep a little in between. You should therefore allow plenty of time for this. Most women spend more than eight hours a day breastfeeding in the first few weeks. Don't worry, after a few weeks this time will be significantly shorter. But until then, it will help if you follow a few tricks.
The easiest position is to breastfeed in a sitting or lying position at the beginning. Later on, the baby will have no problem finding your breast even if you are standing or carrying the baby in a sling. Sometimes it helps to breastfeed the baby if you get into a four-footed position.
However, you should always make sure that you have everything you might need for the next lesson within easy reach. Don't forget something to drink and eat.
Find a position in which you can stay cosy and relaxed. Prepare something to support the baby. So that you don't have to support the baby's weight with your arms.
Your baby should lie in a stable and secure position. The mouth should be level with the nipple and the nose close to the breast. The baby's body should not be twisted. This makes it easier for your child to swallow.
The area of the breast closest to the baby's chin is best emptied. However, this is only important if you want to treat lumps in the breast.
When sitting, you can place the child in front of you and hold it in your arms. This position is called the "cradle position". You can also lay the child on its side towards you. So that the baby's head is close to your chest. This is the so-called 'football position'. The name is taken from the sport. This is because the baby is carried like a ball when playing.
If you want to breastfeed in the supine position, try to position yourself well with a pillow. You should be able to see your baby in a relaxed position while you spend time together. If you are breastfeeding on your side, simply lay the baby on its side next to you.
In the beginning, children often use their little hands to make it clear that they are not moving fast enough. They wave and wiggle their arms and accidentally push themselves off the breast. Later, they then use their little fingers to stimulate the flow of milk with gentle movements. They need a little patience before they succeed. You can carefully place rowing baby arms in the right place on the body.
