What to Know about the First Latch: Breastfeeding 101
The first latch with your newborn can feel foreign and awkward. It’s usually the very first time you have a tiny human ferociously vying for one of the most sensitive parts of your body.
As your birth doula, I’m there to provide hands on support to instill confidence as you begin your breastfeeding relationship.
Having walked beside many mothers as they work to begin and sustain the breastfeeding relationship I value and understand how deeply emotional, tumultuous, anxiety-ridden, uncomfortable and exhausting it can be (especially in the beginning).
That doesn’t take away from the incredible impact breastfeeding your baby from its first hour of life through its first year (and potentially beyond) has on their life and health.
But we should acknowledge the perseverance and strength that it takes to breastfeed.
Some of the ways that your doula can support you at the beginning of the breastfeeding journey:
talking about what signs of a “good latch” are
identifying when you should un-latch and try again
sharing tricks to utilize gravity and body mechanics to make both of you comfortable while feeding
explaining what to expect in the first 24 hours-weeks postpartum
demonstrating how to be proactive in getting the resources and support you need to enhance your breastfeeding experience
The common thread to increase breastfeeding rates nationally and beyond is SUPPORT.
So how do you foster that support that will help you with your breastfeeding journey? We’ve found that, when our clients develop their networks prenatally, they feel far more supported in the moment.
Here’s how to develop your breastfeeding support network:
〰️Meet w/a lactation consultant.
〰️Educate your partner, bestie or mom on breastfeeding and the type of support you’d like.
〰️Take a Breastfeeding class.
〰️Hire a postpartum doula.
〰️Find out where local la leche league meetings or new moms groups are.
〰️Seek resources for donor breastmilk.
Are you curious to build a network of other pregnant folks? Join our next Asheville Prenatal Yoga Series!
