When it comes to breastfeeding, following the KellyMom guidelines can help new mothers navigate this rewarding yet challenging journey with confidence. Established by lactation consultant Kelly Bonyata, these guidelines are designed to support both the mother and the baby in establishing a healthy breastfeeding relationship.
Nurse Frequently Throughout the Day
One of the key recommendations of the KellyMom guidelines is to aim for breastfeeding at least 10-12 times per day, spread out over 24 hours. This frequent nursing helps ensure an adequate milk supply and promotes bonding between mother and baby.
Respond Promptly to Hunger Cues
According to KellyMom, it’s important to nurse at the first signs of hunger, such as stirring, rooting, or hands in the mouth. Waiting until the baby is crying can make latching more difficult and lead to frustration for both the mother and the baby.
Avoid Scheduled Feedings
KellyMom advises against strict feeding schedules and encourages responsive feeding instead. By allowing the baby to nurse on demand, mothers can ensure that their baby’s nutritional needs are met and promote a healthy breastfeeding relationship.
Cluster Feeding Is Normal
Cluster feeding, where a baby feeds more frequently for a period of time, is a common behavior, particularly in the evenings. KellyMom reassures mothers that this is normal and can help boost milk supply to meet the baby’s growing needs.
Empty One Breast Before Switching
When nursing, KellyMom suggests allowing the baby to fully empty one breast before offering the other. This helps ensure that the baby receives the hindmilk, which is richer in fat and essential for the baby’s development.
Pay Attention to Baby’s Sucking Patterns
By observing the baby’s sucking patterns, mothers can gauge whether the baby is effectively nursing and receiving an adequate amount of milk. KellyMom recommends seeking support from a lactation consultant if there are concerns about latching or milk transfer.
Stay Hydrated and Well-Nourished
Proper nutrition and hydration are essential for breastfeeding mothers. KellyMom emphasizes the importance of consuming a balanced diet rich in nutrients and staying hydrated to support milk production and overall well-being.
Utilize Skin-to-Skin Contact
Skin-to-skin contact not only promotes bonding between mother and baby but also helps regulate the baby’s body temperature and encourage breastfeeding. KellyMom encourages mothers to incorporate skin-to-skin contact into their daily routine.
Seek Support When Needed
Breastfeeding can sometimes be challenging, and it’s important for mothers to seek support when needed. Whether it’s from a lactation consultant, a support group, or a healthcare provider, KellyMom advocates for reaching out for assistance when facing breastfeeding difficulties.
Trust Your Instincts
Ultimately, the KellyMom guidelines for breastfeeding serve as a helpful resource, but mothers are encouraged to trust their instincts and seek what works best for them and their baby. Every breastfeeding journey is unique, and by listening to their intuition, mothers can navigate this experience with confidence and grace.
