This week we have another guest blogger, Eilish Saba who runs ‘The Baby Care Company’. Eilish has met many new mums who have been successful in their careers, but who became unstuck in those early weeks with their baby. Her mission is to make mums feel happy and confident in those first few months, giving pregnant women the knowledge, skills and wisdom to thrive. Today she talks to Natus Physiotherapy about feeding baby.  

 
Eilish, when should you feed a new baby?

The baby’s sucking reflex is usually strongest after birth so the midwife will usually suggest you try to feed your baby soon after delivery. Don’t be afraid to ask if the latch is right as it does take trial and error to get it right. In the first few days, it’s important to feed regularly as your milk supply works on a demand and supply basis.

Breast or bottle feed is a personal decision - what do you think?

Many choose to breast feed, but some simply can’t. If that’s the case, try not to feel bad about it. As a new mum you start to realise that there are different ways of doing things and as long as you do what’s best for you and your situation, that’s the most important thing.

Does getting into a routine help?

How you routine you baby is again a personal decision and very much depends on the type of person you are and what you are like. Some people like to know what’s happening at different times of the day and others prefer to ‘go with the flow’ more and let the baby lead the way.

In terms of feeding, what’s important is that at every feed you give your baby a ‘proper feed’ – ie make sure that they’re awake when they’re being fed, and that they feed for long enough to get some of the hind milk (the milk which comes later on in the feed and which is full of more lipids – sometimes referred to as the pudding!). Also make sure that you wind your baby properly after each feed. There are a number of different positions you can try, so vary the position if you find one isn’t working.

People often ask me about feeding cushions and chairs - what do you find most comfortable and effective to help prevent back pain with feeding?

I can’t stress enough the importance of good back support when feeding. As you’ll be in the same position for up to an hour at a time for each feed in the early days, it’s important to ensure that you get comfortable before you begin. I used a feeding chair that was great for lower back support. You can also put your feet up and support your arms on the rests, or on a v-pillow.  Feeding chairs start at about £100 and are a great investment. If you don’t have space for a feeding chair, then make sure your lower back is supported with cushions and that you’re not sitting in an awkward position. If your back starts to hurt after a few days feeding, it’s worth looking to see how you can better support your back.

Eilish provides small classes with The Baby Care Company in a supportive environment to give confidence and encouragement through what is truly a life changing experience.

She also offers classes to second time mums – focusing on things to do before the baby arrives and ways of managing two, as well as a reminder of baby care.

For details of local classes please call 020 7228 1041 or email
info@thebabycarecompany.co.uk 
www.thebabycarecompany.co.uk