Discover Breastfeeding Mistakes and How to Correct Them

Being a first time mom can leave you worried and flustered especially if you don't have a clue what is going on. Feeding time can also be stressful if you were not guided on how to do it properly. It is important for an infant to be fed properly to ensure that he is healthy and to promote growth. Let's explore some of the common mistakes mothers make during breastfeeding. In that way, you can also check if you are doing the right thing. 

.Poor Eating Habits

Mothers tend to focus more on their children and the numerous responsibilities they have that they forget to eat at the right time. It's not surprising that they also have trouble with eating the right food to keep their strength up. Unbeknownst to most, this is a big mistake that should be avoided at all costs. Since you are breastfeeding, your child also gets the nutrients from you and if you are eating unhealthy meals, it's also affecting the baby. 

.Taking Medicines Without Consultation

Sure, we get headaches and probably reach for the first pain reliever that we see in our medicine cabinet. But did you stop to think if it's going to be okay taking that since you still breastfeeding? I don't think so. In any case, you should always ask your medical practitioner on what drugs are safe to take when nursing your baby. The same thing goes when taking contraceptive pills. Generally, it's a big no and should avoid doing so. 

.Drinking Alcohol and Smoking

It does not need to be reiterated that even though you are not breastfeeding, both substances are potentially harmful. When you are smoking, nicotine affects the quality of your milk. Your child will have trouble falling asleep and he will also be exposed to the several health risks. It's not easy to quit smoking but you have to think about your child's welfare first. The harmful chemicals found in intoxicating substances affect the development of your child's brain as well. You'll find out too late that he is slower than most kids his age especially if their mothers are non-smokers and don't drink. 

.Taking Long, Unnecessary Breaks From Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding regularly ensures that your breasts do not harden or get infected with clogged milk ducts. With the latter, it happens when you allow too much gaps between breastfeeding. If you are working, then it's best that you bring along a breast pump and feeding bottle and relieve yourself during the day. In that way, you can be sure to have ample supply whenever your baby needs to feed. 


.Study and Learn About Natural Methods

To ensure a constant flow of milk, it is essential that you read about natural ways and methods. As mentioned, drugs are not exactly healthy. Milk Up! Your Essential Guide to Boosting Your Milk is one of the many books that you should consider reading. You'll be learning quite a lot especially the natural methods of increasing your milk supply.