Top tips for successful breastfeeding

So I absolutely love breast feeding but my first few weeks were not all that easy. Breastfeeding was pretty hard for me. From not having a milk supply to the sore cracked and painful nipples that occurred for weeks after. But once I got into it and had moved passed the first few weeks I was in heaven.

I was the crazy lady pumping and freezer stacking. I was all in. Since then I have been taking it a bit easier. So before I officially stop breastfeeding I decided let me share my absolute top tips with you.

My first tip is so so crucial, don't stress about not having a milk supply immediately. Its not a sure sign you will never have milk. I was one of those moms who had like zero milk for days post birth. I was given the option to receive an injection to help me produce milk (I can't even remember what it was) but 3/4 days later and I was on my way. So assuming you a breastfeeding mom these are some of my top tips for a blissful breastfeeding journey.

• Invest in nipple cream and Ice packs. But here's another tip don't buy lots. I still have the same nipple cream I had from day one. I no longer even use it.
• Get your hands on fenugreek. This stuff easily tripled my milk supply in 48 hours.
• Pump while breastfeeding. This basically tricks your body into thinking you have twins. The milk you pump while breastfeeding can go towards your milk stash or if you have a partner willing to take care of baby while you rest or have "me time" he/she will have a bottle ready to feed the lil one.
• Drink tons of water and if you feeling dehydrated get your hands on something like rehidrat sachets. Your milk supply and water intake go hand in hand so be sure to stay hydrated.
• You have to be in a state of calm while breastfeeding. I don't know what it is but I noticed if I was stressed my milk supply would be weak and Matteo would really have to work hard. So breath mama. (stay tuned for my tips on things I do to get me relaxed and calm while breast feeding or pumping.)
• This is a more superficial tip but we mother's not dead. Olive oil massaged onto your breasts will keep it supple and will help with stretch marks. I'm not even sure if its scientific but I find it works.
• If your baby starts falling asleep mid feeding especially after 8pm feeds try and give your baby a little tickle so it can get him drinking again. A full baby means more sleep for mommy.

There is also some serious miracle ingredients you should use to increase your milk supply, they really helped me so much. 

Banana

Flax seed

Oats

Milk

Peanut butter

Brewer's yeast

Milk thistle

On that note, I honestly hope these tips will help you in and on your breast feeding journey. Stay strong mama I KNOW you are doing the best you can.

I might make a part two to this post, which will focus on pumping and breastfeeding, let me know if that's something you might be interested in.

Till the next post.

Love &light