Sorry -- I didn't really mean to write so much about breastfeeding. It's just that I've spent so much time nursing over the last 15 months.... But this is really, really the last one.
A couple of tips (that I'm sure you've already heard, but I think these were the most important ones for me in the beginning)
1) Drink LOTS of water. "Water makes milk," a nurse told me. You make milk when you're well-hydrated, so drink lots (lots and lots and lots) and keep a glass of water nearby for while you're nursing (I have never felt that kind of thirst in my life).
2) Nurse on demand, especially at first. Don't worry about getting your baby on a schedule -- it will happen eventually. Instead, nurse her as often as she wants. Even when it seems like she couldn't possibly be hungry again. Even when people say "does that baby do anything other than eat?". It really is the best way to get a good supply going and to get the hang of it. And, since for a baby, breastfeeding is as much about comfort and security as it is about food, I don't really think there is such a thing as nursing a newborn too much. And next baby, I will remember to tell myself that, too.
3) Know where to turn for help, and ask for help right away. Breastfeeding should be totally natural and easy, but it's not. It's uncomfortable at first. It's kind of awkward. It's all new. Even though having strangers man-handle you doesn't sound great, getting the help you need when things aren't going quite right is so much better than the alternative of struggling alone. Don't wait until you're miserable, either. Ask the nurses at the hospital. Ask the public health nurses. Ask whoever you're comfortable with. And then keep asking until you get the help you need.
4) Call me. I'm a really good cheerleader and commiserator.
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