The concept of breastfeeding isn’t just about providing essential nutrients to your baby, it is also about creating and strengthening the bond between mother and child. Unfortunately, for many new mothers this intimate experience can be not only uncomfortable but painful as well. Not being able to breastfeed without difficulty puts a major strain on this important aspect of motherhood but with a few helpful tips and tricks, there are ways to make this process much easier to handle.

Plan Ahead

Think you only need to worry about the breastfeeding process once your baby arrives? Think again. To cover all your bases, it is ideal to create your own special area for breastfeeding before giving birth. Planning this step well in advance of your due date will minimize the number of tasks on your to-do list. Additionally, prepping this space gives you the chance to take time with designing the area and what you want it to include. Remember, breastfeeding occurs often and depending on how hungry your baby is, it could take some time out of your day. Because of this, prepare properly by creating a work station of sorts with all of the items you need within arm’s reach. Having things such as the telephone, portable table, pencil and pad of paper, laptop, magazines/books, DVDs, water and snacks will cut down the number of times you’ll have to get up and move about. It also gives you a chance to really spend quality time with your baby uninterrupted.

Buy the Gear

Go into any department store or online retail store and you’ll find scores of baby and mother related items made for just about every phase of parenting. Among the many products to choose from, there are items designed specifically for breastfeeding mothers. Take advantage of such products to make your life easier. Nursing pillows and neck heating pads are a God-send to new mothers. Even though babies are small, holding their weight over a long period of time will wear down your arms. Nursing pillows are effective and keep the baby’s body and head in the right position for suckling. Most nursing pillows start around the $30 range and higher but are definitely worth the money. Aside from the arms, the neck can also become strained and sore from breastfeeding regularly. Neck heating pads soothe aching muscles and provide added comfort during this process. You can find neck heating pads at any department store or online for around $20 or more.

Do What Works for You

When most people think of breastfeeding mothers, they typically picture a woman sitting upright in a rocking chair, holding her baby. While this is an idyllic scene, chances are it’s also very uncomfortable. It’s okay to choose a different position to nurse your baby. If sitting up doesn’t work for you, trying lying on your side in bed. Nursing in this position is not only more comfortable but gives your arms and neck a break as well. For the best results, use a body pillow that is designed to provide support to your legs, neck and back while nursing. With time and practice, nursing your new baby will become an enjoyable experience and allow you to spend the quality time needed to strengthen your bond.   

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