Finding the Balance Between Rest and milk Production
Many new moms embark on their breastfeeding journey with the best intentions, only to discover that it's not as simple or straightforward as they imagined. Beyond the sheer exhaustion of being a new mom, breastfeeding brings its own set of challenges. One of the big hurdles new moms face, is the importance of rest, and how to strike a balance between breastfeeding and self-care.
The Exhaustion Factor
Being a new mom is exhausting. When you add breastfeeding to the mix, it becomes even more demanding. Breastfeeding is a unique responsibility that only you can fulfill, and it can take a toll on your energy levels. It's important to be prepared for the fact that it might be more challenging than you initially thought.
Balancing Rest and Feeding
Some moms talk about wanting their partners to give a bottle in the middle of the night to get some much-needed rest. Though this is a valid option, it comes with some caveats. Skipping a nursing session to let your partner feed your baby can impact your milk production. When you skip a session, your body gets the message that it doesn't need to produce as much milk. So, while rest is crucial, it's essential to understand the potential effects on milk supply.
Understanding the Facts
Taking care of yourself is vital during this time. If you find that you need extra rest and are willing to accept the trade-off of potential supplementation with formula, that's perfectly okay.
The key here is to have all the facts. Skipping nursing sessions, for whatever reason, can affect milk production. It's essential to be aware of this and make informed decisions. Unfortunately, these facts are not always widely shared, which is why having the support of a lactation consultant or a breastfeeding-savvy physician can be immensely helpful.
An alternative strategy is to have your partner assist in other ways during nighttime awakenings. Your partner can handle tasks like undressing, changing, and preparing the baby for nursing. After nursing, they can take over burping, changing, and dressing the baby, allowing you to catch a bit more sleep. Even just a few extra minutes of sleep while your partner does these things could go a long way.
Seeking Support
Breastfeeding supporters can't predict every issue you might encounter, which is why having an expert by your side is invaluable. Lactation consultants and knowledgeable physicians understand the science and physiology of breastfeeding. They can provide tips and tricks to make the journey more manageable.
The goal is to find a balance that works for both you and your baby. That balance will be different for everyone. It’s always OK to ask for help (whether that be from your significant other, friends, or lactation professionals) and there is no reason to feel guilty about whatever balance you decide upon.