Understanding Prenatal Care
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Understanding Prenatal Care

After I found out that I was pregnant, I decided to focus on finding an excellent prenatal care. I started looking for an OBGYN who could help me with the kind of care that I needed, but it was overwhelming at first. I was nervous that I would choose the wrong provider and that it would complicate my pregnancy, but I was able to find a great doctor who could help me along the way. He walked me through prenatal care requirements, and it was really fantastic to see the difference that it made in my life. This blog is here to help other people to understand prenatal care.

Understanding Prenatal Care

Preparing For Breastfeeding Your Newborn Baby

Regina Cooper

If you recently found out you are pregnant, you are most likely over-whelmed with the knowledge that you are harboring a new life within your own body. Many who give birth decide to breastfeed their newborns to give them a great start in nutritional intake. If you are interested in trying breastfeeding yourself, you may be a bit apprehensive about what to expect, as it can be difficult during the first weeks after you give birth. Here are some tips you can use to prepare yourself for breastfeeding so you are not taken off-guard with any obstacles you may experience

Be Prepared For Frustration

Many new mothers are not warned about the difficulties that come along with breastfeeding. You will most likely find yourself frustrated if your baby does not wish to nurse or if you are unable to get them to latch onto your breasts properly. These difficulties are to be expected, so do not feel as if you are failing your child if you find yourself having trouble. Continuing to try to breastfeed even at times you feel like giving up. It can take a few weeks for you to feel completely comfortable with the process and to master the skill in feeding your baby easily.

Load Up On Supplies

Before you give birth, take the time to make a few purchases to aid in your breastfeeding endeavor. It is a good idea to have cabbage in your refrigerator in case you feel pain from engorged breasts after your milk comes in. These can be placed directly on your breasts to reduce the pain. Lanolin can be placed on your nipples to help relive cracking and bleeding. This comes in an ointment form and it is safe for you to nurse your baby with it on your breasts. Consider purchasing or renting a breast pump to help relieve pressure in your breasts if your baby is not cooperating with feedings. You may find you wish to store your breast milk for times you are unable to nurse your baby as well. A well-made nursing bra and button-down shirts will also come in handy.

Ask For Professional Assistance

Your obstetrician can lead you in the direction in finding help from a professional lactation specialist to help you learn more about breastfeeding if you feel uncomfortable in any way. If you give birth in a hospital, make sure to ask a nurse to have someone come to your room to give you pointers in how to hold your baby to your breast so they latch on properly. This assistance will give you the confidence needed at a time you may feel lost with the breastfeeding process. Many breastfeeding groups hold weekly or monthly meetings where you can get some more tips in how to keep up your supply and deal with any pain felt. These allow for new mothers to get together with their babies, possibly helping you to find new friends as well.


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