Five things you may not know about breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a new frontier for first-time mums, and it comes with its quirks. And that’s why pioneering women like me, who have been there before, are prepared to tell-all. You’re about to embark on a beautiful journey, so use this information to help navigate the sometimes bumpy road that is breastfeeding.

Parenting is understanding that you have to expect the unexpected. And that’s supremely important when preparing to breastfeed. Having as much information as possible can give you the confidence you need to get through some of the tougher times during breastfeeding, so here are five breastfeeding truths.

1. Breastfeeding isn’t meant to hurt

One of the biggest fears new mums have about breastfeeding is that it’s going to hurt. Yes, initially you may have some nipple pain, as your baby gets the hang of latching on. But this shouldn’t last beyond your baby’s initial attachment, and only for the very early weeks. If your nipples are cracked, bleeding or damaged – this is not normal. Make sure you seek help from a lactation consultant or your doctor if you’re in pain while breastfeeding.

2. Babies don’t only breastfeed when they’re hungry

The main reason a baby breastfeeds is obviously to ease hunger – but there are also other reasons a baby may nurse. They could be tired, in pain, lonely, need the touch of their mother or need calming down.

3. Your breasts will never be empty – not even after a feed

Many new mums are concerned that they won’t know when their baby is full, or if they will have enough milk for them. The truth is that there is always milk in your breasts, even if your baby has just had a feed. Your breasts will adjust the amount of milk they’re producing, based on how much your baby is drinking, and it only takes a day or so for your baby to increase your supply simply by feeding more often. Also, your ability (or inability!) to express milk is no indication of how much milk you have – your baby is far better at milking your breast than you or any pump!

4. Breastmilk changes as your baby does

Breastmilk is amazing – it changes not only as your baby grows, but even throughout each day. There may be more lactose in your breastmilk in the late afternoon, while the amount of fat is highest in the morning. It’s also believed that breastmilk helps boost your baby’s immune system, through a host of nutrients.

5. Your body needs more nutrients when you’re breastfeeding. A lot more.

We’re all familiar with the old adage that pregnancy means you’re eating for two – but what about once your baby is born and you’re breastfeeding? You’re still responsible for feeding two!

When you’re breastfeeding, your body’s recommended daily intake of nutrients skyrockets by up to 188 per cent. It’s a really unique need to this particular stage of motherhood. Elevit has just released a breastfeeding version of its popular preconception and pregnancy supplement – Elevit Breastfeeding Multivitamin. Just one capsule a day will give your body a boost of essential vitamins, minerals and Omega 3 – to support your increased nutritional needs.

Once you’ve had your baby, you can switch from Elevit Preconception and Pregnancy, to the new Elevit Breastfeeding Multivitamin, which contains:

• Omega 3 and iodine which help support your baby’s brain development
• Lutein and betacarotene to help your baby’s eyesight
• B group vitamins and iron to help give you an energy boost, and
• Vitamin C and zinc to help your baby’s immune system.

And here’s a bonus piece of information about breastfeeding from someone who has been there and done that. Lean on as many people as necessary to help you feel comfortable about your journey. Get information and support from medical professionals and your family and friends. No matter how long your breastfeeding road is, it’s all about enjoying the journey.

(This is a sponsored post for Elevit)

Always read the label. Use only as directed.