5 Mistakes Moms Make During the First Week Postpartum (when it comes to breastfeeding)
We prepare for birth, so why do many moms neglect to prepare for life after birth?
My theory is that there is simply so much to learn that most moms are overwhelmed with where to start. That's why I put together this fun, comprehensive, all-in-one course.
Mistake #1: Breastfeed fewer than 8 times per 24 hours during that critical first week
Many moms expect that hospital staff will guide them in their breastfeeding journey every step of the way once baby is here. Unfortunately, that is NOT the case which leads to many new moms feeling stuck in the deep end, underprepared, and overwhelmed.
When else would we dive into a new role without any education or training? It's a mistake.
Mistake #2: Jump straight to formula without trying hand expression or pumping first
If baby needs to be supplemented, the first step should be to get mom hand expressing, hand pumping, or using an electric pump correctly every 2-3 hours. Excessive weight loss
(greater than 10%) or low blood sugar are indicators that baby is not removing colostrum from mom's breasts well. We need to remove milk to make milk (demand FIRST, supply SECOND).
If mom is not able to remove enough milk, only then should donor milk or formula be used to ensure baby is being adequately fed.
Mistake #3: Use a Nipple Shield incorrectly
Nipple shields are often used incorrectly, and many hospitals no longer keep them in stock.
The issue is that there are some cases where a nipple shield can truly save the breastfeeding relationship. Ideally, a nipple shield is used in cases where mom has inverted or somewhat flat nipples, however, nipple shields can also be a saving grace for moms with nipple damage and pain who feel like they want to quit on the spot.
A nipple shield should be a short-term tool (it’s a band-aid of sorts) covering up an underlying issue. If a mom goes home from the hospital using a nipple shield, she should absolutely hire a skilled lactation specialist because addressing the root issue and weaning off the shield is complex.
Mistake #4: Let baby sleep more than 4 hours in a row too soon
Did you know that all babies lose weight after birth? We want babies to return back to birth weight by 10-14 days old at the absolute latest. Meeting this benchmark is a sign that babies are able to remove the amount of milk from the breast that they need in order to grow and thrive and that mom's milk supply is meeting baby's nutritional and hydration needs. Many babies sleep longer than 4 hours straight prior to being back to birth weight if left to their own devices as their body’s way of conserving energy. Being extra sleepy can also be related to having jaundice or being dehydrated.
Wake your baby UP at the 3-4 hour mark and work on breastfeeding (and supplement with your own expressed milk first... then donor milk or formula if needed). Track baby's weight carefully and see your midwife or OBGYN if your baby is sleeping a lot and you are having a hard time waking them.
Mistake #5: Wait too long to hire skilled help
Sooooo many moms wait too long to hire skilled help. Instead, they pour over the internet for
general advice or see the cheapest person they can find in hopes of reaching their goals that way. Your breastfeeding relationship is too important to hire sub-par help or to leave it up to chance.
Hire skilled help right away and take a Prenatal Breastfeeding Course (check out our comprehensive, online course here).
You are taking the first steps towards meeting your goals and preventing issues like the ones listed above by just reading this blog.
Wishing you a beautiful breastfeeding journey!
