Tips for feeding success

Feed Me!

Pre-baby Prep

Every baby feeds differently, and we don’t know what we don’t know. Taking a prenatal class (especially if its the first child!), and establishing care with a lactation consultant like you might do with a doula or birthing provider before baby arrives, could make all the difference. If you are working through The Lactation Network to process insurance, you’ll be set when you need postpartum care, and know exactly how many visits you’re eligible for.

If it hurts…get help

There are SO many challenges that can occur with feeding. You are going to be tired, overwhelmed at times, handling fluctuating hormones, and adjusting to having a new baby at home. If you are experiencing pain with feeding or pumping, you don’t think you’re making enough milk, or you just feel that something is off - there is help available. Find an IBCLC who can help you.

Take advice with a grain of salt

We are living in the age of information overload. There are many people online who consider themselves “experts” on parenting/feeding/etc and share info to be helpful/sell products/make a brand. So much advice is based on individual experiences that may not translate. Maybe someone has a freezer full of frozen milk, but will they use it all? Probably not. Perhaps someone is bragging about their baby sleeping all night when you’ve tried everything and your baby is doing their own thing (normal). Let it go - and remember you’re on your own parenting journey!

Finding what helps YOU and YOUR baby, and leaving the rest will really reduce a lot of anxiety.

Working one-on-one with an IBCLC can provide clarity based on your specific situation, and helps to cut out the noise.