Breastfeeding after an IVF? Keep these things in mind

Breastfeeding can do miracles for the health of your little one. Breast milk is the best food for the baby as aside from nutrients it also contains antibodies which help the baby fight off infections and diseases. Maybe this is the reason why some new mothers are so anxious about breastfeeding, they want the best for their baby. But breastfeeding is not as natural as it may seem for a few of us, especially if you are an IVF patient.

IVF or in vitro fertilisation birth is a miracle in itself, however many new mothers stress out at the idea of not being able to breastfeed their child as many IVF mothers face problems like delayed lactation, absence of lactation or problem establishing breastfeeding with the child. The stress regarding breastfeeding after IVF is one of the common facts about IVF. Here are some tips on howto make breastfeeding after IVF a successful process.

Know what all precautions you must take after IVF.

Relax

This is the best tip that anyone can give you if you want to breastfeed successfully. Breastfeeding and IVF don’t really go hand in hand, and that idea alone can make many women super anxious about the whole process.Being stressed doesn’t help, at all, in fact it suppresses the release of oxytocin, the hormone responsible for milk production. Try to relax and create a peaceful environment around yourself.

Forget that diet

You might have been watching your diet before and during pregnancy, but now is the time to banish all diets. You will have an almost insatiable appetite as you begin to breastfeed. You need all those carbs and proteins and fats. So eat what you want and all you want, just make sure you stay away from preservatives and anything that can harm your baby, as what you eat essentially determines the quality of milk and what’s in it.

Seek professional help

You can seek professional help before and after the birth. Medical support from experienced professionals can make you feel more comfortable and confident about breastfeeding. You might also get some invaluable tips from them, so don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Know all about IVF

Use a breast pump

Milk production needs stimulation. If you are not able to produce milk, using a breast pump can be a great choice. Try manual simulation as well and alternate between both. Usually one breast is better at producing milk than the other, however you should not overburden one breast and neglect other. Simulation can get the milk production started from the other one as well. from your husband

Image: Getty

Read more articles in Pregnancy.