How to Live Happily during the Breastfeeding Period

Of all the stages that make up motherhood, the breastfeeding period is one of the most special. In it, the unequaled bonds between a mother and her child are formed. In addition, being the source of food is a responsibility and an honor for her.

In the midst of so many emotions and tasks, it’s necessary to leave space to live happily during the breastfeeding period.

In fact, breastfeeding is so important that you begin it when the baby is only a few minutes old.

This has two functions: the first is to give the baby an early connection with his mother and to test his suckling reflex. It’s also important for him to absorb and digest the essential nutrients contained in the first milk, or colostrum.

Especially for new mothers, this stage can lead to some doubts. So that you can live happily during the breastfeeding period, which you and your little one deserve, here are some important recommendations.

Tips for living happily during the breastfeeding period

1. Don’t feel doubt or shame

Breastfeeding is a totally natural and innate process. Think of animals, which are mammals just like us. They don’t have the ability to reason why they do it, but they’re still perfectly capable of feeding their babies.

Don’t let yourself be frightened by those who suggest that it shouldn’t be done in public or that you should “hide” to breastfeed. There is no greater fallacy than that. Always feel your right to feed your baby whenever you need to.

2. Find the correct position.

At first, it’s normal for you to not feel comfortable with the classic position for breastfeeding your baby. The reality is that there are many such positions. The choice will be based exclusively on your comfort and that of the baby.

Poor posture can cause poor milk production and irritation of the nipple due to the poor suction force that the little one will use when uncomfortable.

However, it’s not a factor that you should worry about too much. With time, you’ll notice which of the many positions suits both of you best and will solve the issue.

3. What should you eat?

Through breast milk, the baby receives the nutrients the mother has in her body. Of course, these are obtained from her diet. Therefore, it’s advisable to abandon unhealthy habits – that is, to continue as in pregnancy – and, in the same way, to eat a complete and varied diet.

According to specialists, the essential nutrients at this stage are calcium, iron, carbohydrates (which provide energy), proteins and healthy fats. Also, don’t forget to stay hydrated at all times.

4. Is it time to stop?

There are mothers who are uncomfortable when breastfeeding for too long. Their concerns are, on the one hand, not being able to produce enough milk to satisfy the needs of their child, and on the other hand, that not stopping at a certain time could cause some harm.

As for the first, it’s important that you start offering your baby other foods after six months to create a varied diet. Your milk production shouldn’t be a problem; the body’s regulatory mechanism will take care of it.

For the second concern, prolonged breastfeeding presents no risk. It could extend for five, six or even seven years if both mother and child wish.

However, there is often a lot of social pressure about this. Once again, those who make the decision are you and your child. Criticism, in fact, is due to the lack of information from society.

5. What can go wrong?

As in any new process that we face, we worry that something may cause us problems. Most mothers manage to breastfeed successfully, including first-time mothers.

Sure, there can be problems; the most common are inflammation or pain in the nipples and a condition called mastitis.

However, none of them is serious. You can overcome them perfectly with certain care and, of course, with the help of your trusted doctor. 

Finally, remember that in no way are you facing this process alone. Your partner, your family and your friends are there to help and advise you. Keeping your fears secret is the last thing you should do: express them to stay calm.

In any case, if you still need to talk with specialists on the subject – beyond your doctor, of course – there are associations and groups dedicated to advising mothers with doubts and problems so that they can live happily during the breastfeeding period.