There are a million things that an expectant mother needs to know in order to get through her pregnancy and birth without any trouble or complication. But breastfeeding? That’s a whole other story. Not only do new mothers have to learn how to breastfeed, but they also need to know when and how to ask for help if they feel like they’re struggling. This post also offers some tips from OB/GYN physicians on how to provide breastfeeding support from the health care provider.
Importance Of Breastfeeding And The Benefits It Can Provide
Breastfeeding is one of the most natural and beneficial things a mother can do for her baby. It has been shown to provide numerous health benefits for both the mother and the baby, including reducing the risk of diseases such as asthma, allergies, obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, some forms of cancer (including ovarian cancer), postpartum depression, and constipation in infants. Additionally, breastfeeding decreases a child’s exposure to environmental toxins such as lead and mercury.
While there are many benefits to breastfeeding, not all mothers are able or willing to breastfeed. This is due in part to cultural reasons (some cultures believe that breastfeeding is only appropriate for newborns) as well as a personal preference (some women find it difficult or painful to breastfeed). In these cases, infant formula should be given instead of milk from a bottle. A formula can also be given if lactation does not occur within 12 hours after childbirth.
Different Types Of Breastfeeding Support
According to OB/GYN clinic in Walpole, when breastfeeding, it’s important to have support from your healthcare provider. This support can come in many different forms and usually includes teaching you how to breastfeed properly and providing lactation consultants who can help with troubleshooting breastfeeding problems. Here are some of the most common types of breastfeeding support:
- Teaching you how to breastfeed correctly – Your healthcare provider will teach you the basics of breastfeeding, including how to position yourself while nursing and how long each feeding should last.
- Providing lactation consultants – These professionals are specially trained in helping new mothers breastfeed successfully. They can provide advice on positioning, timing, latch-on techniques, and more.
- Giving you supplements – Some women find that they need additional nutrients during or after breastfeeding; your healthcare provider may be able to recommend a supplement for you.
How Breastfeeding Support Expert Helps
Working as a breastfeeding support expert can be very fulfilling for someone who is passionate about helping mothers lactate in the best way possible. While there are many different types of breastfeeding experts, some of the most common occupations include lactation consultants, OB/GYN physicians, and peer counselors. According to Upwork, a website that offers online job opportunities, working as a breastfeeding support expert can earn an individual an average salary of $43,000 per year.
The qualifications necessary for this type of job vary depending on the specific position that is being sought out. However, all professionals seeking employment as breastfeeding support experts should have at least two years of experience working with mothers and their babies. Additionally, many employers require certification from one of several organizations such as The International Lactation Consultant Association (ILCA), the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), or The World Health Organization (WHO).
How Can They Keep Track of Mother’s Milk SupplyÂ
Breastfeeding support experts can be a valuable resource for mothers who are struggling to maintain a consistent milk supply. They can help mothers track their milk production and provide guidance on how to increase the amount of milk they produce.
Many breastfeeding support experts offer online resources and group meetings. These resources can be very helpful for mothers who are looking for advice on how to improve their breastfeeding experience.
Conclusion
Encouraging breastfeeding is one of the most important things that a health care provider can do to support a mother and her child. By providing tips and resources, this post helps mothers to get the best possible support during their breastfeeding journey.
