5 Valuable Lessons I Learned as a New Mama from a Lactation Consultant

The journey of breastfeeding can be both rewarding and challenging for new mamas. Seeking guidance from a lactation consultant can provide valuable insights and support. I want to share five important lessons I learned as a new mama from a lactation consultant. These lessons helped me navigate the breastfeeding journey with confidence and provided a strong foundation.

The Power of Proper Latch:

One of the most crucial lessons I learned from a lactation consultant was the importance of a proper latch. A correct latch ensures that the baby effectively extracts milk and helps prevent discomfort and nipple soreness for the mother. With the guidance of the lactation consultant, I learned various latch techniques, including positioning the baby and ensuring a wide, deep latch. This knowledge was instrumental in establishing a comfortable and effective breastfeeding routine.

Building and Maintaining Milk Supply:

Understanding how to build and maintain a healthy milk supply was another valuable lesson. The lactation consultant helped me learn about the significance of frequent nursing, effective breast emptying, and proper stimulation. I gained insights into techniques like breast compression, cluster feeding, and the role of pumping to establish and maintain an adequate milk supply. This knowledge empowered me to provide optimal nourishment for my baby.

Troubleshooting Breastfeeding Challenges:

Breastfeeding can present a range of challenges, and having the guidance of a lactation consultant was invaluable. From dealing with engorgement and blocked ducts to managing low milk supply or oversupply, the lactation consultant equipped me with practical strategies and solutions. Their expertise and support helped me overcome obstacles and maintain a positive breastfeeding experience.

Understanding Baby’s Cues and Needs:

The lactation consultant taught me to recognize and respond to my baby’s hunger cues and needs. I learned to recognize when the baby was finished feeding, usually would slow down or their hands would soften. Feedings can range in length and every baby is different. For our twins, tandem feeding, was really important for me as a mama to save time and also because they could feed more efficiently together. This understanding allowed me to develop a deeper connection with my baby and respond sensitively to their feeding requirements.

The Importance of Self-Care and Support:

The lactation consultant emphasized the significance of self-care and obtaining support during the breastfeeding journey. They encouraged me to prioritize my well-being by resting, eating nutritiously, and seeking emotional support. Mark would also sit and talk with me when I was breastfeeding. As a twin mama it felt like a lonely journey, always having to leave the room to breastfeed to little babies. Having company and someone to talk to made it so much more enjoyable.

Engaging the expertise of a lactation consultant was instrumental in my breastfeeding journey as a new mama. Through their guidance, I learned the importance of a proper latch, building and maintaining milk supply, troubleshooting challenges, understanding my baby’s cues and needs, and prioritizing self-care and support. Armed with this knowledge, I felt more confident, empowered, and capable of nurturing my baby through breastfeeding. If you’re a new mama embarking on the breastfeeding journey, I highly recommend seeking the assistance of a qualified lactation consultant to help you establish a successful and fulfilling breastfeeding experience.