Every mother will have their preference on how to feed their baby. Some may choose to formula feed, some will nurse, some will pump and some will combination feed. Every mother’s journey will be different.
Nursing is defined as when a mother latches her baby to the breast to feed them. Pumping can be defined as using an electric or manual pump to remove the milk from the mother’s breast to be fed to the baby. Both options are considered breastfeeding and every mother will have their own goals and preferences.
Start as Soon as Baby is Born
If you have a goal of nursing it can be important to begin this as soon as the baby is born. Your newborn baby will know your scent and will instinctively try to latch on immediately after birth. If you are struggling with this and have given birth in a hospital there are often IBCLCs on staff. (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant) If you have given birth in a birthing center or at home, there are many IBCLCs that you can make an appointment with to either meet at their office or they can come to your home.
Pumping Options
If you have decided to pump breast milk either exclusively or in combination with letting your baby nurse, you will have a few options to consider. You will want to consider whether you will use a hand pump, a wearable breast pump, or a standard electric pump. All of them are great options and every mother’s preference will be different based on their lifestyle. Late into your pregnancy and the first few days after giving birth your body will produce colostrum before your milk supply comes in. Colostrum can be collected also with either a pump or by allowing the baby to latch. Colostrum is considered “liquid gold” and is great to provide for your newborn in the first few days after birth. Regardless of your decision, choosing to breastfeed is amazing and should be celebrated. Whether you breastfeed for a week or a few years this is an incredible accomplishment!
Story by Tayler Morrison for BlueWaterParent.com
All content of BlueWaterParent.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.
