Tips for breastfeeding after an IVF delivery

By Dr. Shweta Goswami 

Breastfeeding is a natural process and it comes to mothers naturally. In many cases after delivery the mother’s body undergoes a lot of changes that makes breastfeeding little difficult especially if you had cesarean delivery. But this not at all means that you should give up on breastfeeding. Stress, hormonal imbalances and fatigue are very normal for a new mother and some mothers even face post partum depression that can interfere with breast milk production.

Please consider the following tip that helps in overcoming issues with breastfeeding: 

1. Address stress from your life – First of all stop feeling too much stressed. Though it is very normal to feel stressed out after delivery especially if it’s your first baby. But stress at this time could hamper breastfeeding. Remember, a stressful mother will often find it difficult to lactate or even help the baby latch on correctly. Practice deep breathing or take bath in your tub feel the water and try to do everything that keeps you calm and relaxed. 

2. Eat right foods - It is very important for you to eat right and good foods whatever you eat directly influences your breast milk production so try to have a balanced diet, stay hydrated and drink lots of fluids. All these things help to boost milk production and help a mother get on with breastfeeding. 

3. Take small breaks from breastfeeding - . If your child keeps on suckling frequently, production of milk could be hampered though suckling helps to

produce milk but sitting for long hours with the baby at your breast can only make it more stressful and hampers with breast milk production. So, take small breaks after feeding; let the milk production begin again and till then hand over your baby to your spouse or a relative, you just sit back and relax. This will help you lactate well. 

4. Take your folic acid and pills on time - Folic acid is not just needed during pregnancy, but also during breastfeeding. But before jumping to any conclusions do consult your doctor to know if you need supplements. 

Follow these simple tips and enjoy your motherhood.