Be Consistent

Your body will naturally produce the milk, so when you are getting started, do not skip feedings. If you are supplementing because of a low milk supply, while bottle feeding, you will need to pump at the same time or very soon after. If you skip a feeding, you are subliminally telling yourself that you need less milk.

Be Knowledgeable 

Colostrum is a sticky white or yellow fluid secreted by the breasts during the second half of pregnancy and for a few days after birth, before breast milk comes in. It is high in protective antibodies that boost the newborn’s immune system. When my milk finally came in, it felt like a rush of fire to my chest, if this is the case for you do not be alarmed, this feeling is normal.

Be Patient

A women’s milk supply typically doesn’t fully come in until after a couple of days. That’s right! In those early moments, although you don’t see milk flowing, continue to put the baby to your breast for the colostrum.

No matter what, simply enjoy the bond. Breastfeeding is an intimate moment that moms share with their children. Cherish these moments. This is a great time to talk to your baby about his future, sing songs, or teach him about colors or their surroundings. Just make sure you are using this opportunity to get to know one another. Because before you know it, your little one will be a big kid at the dinner table!

Elle breastfed two children for 24 months simultaneously. You can read about her family and her journey through Motherhood on her blog Cleverly Changing. She shares informative and inspiring posts daily on social media, so be sure to follow her as she supports moms across the country!

 

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About The Author

#Chocolate Milk

Throughout August, in celebration of National Breastfeeding Awareness Month, Diary of a First Time Mom will publish a new nursing story each day, written by 31+ black mom bloggers. DFTM Creator Heather Hopson asked each blogger to submit a personal breastfeeding story, and they immediately emailed their experiences—both good and bad. They wrote about everything from allergies and ignorance to pumping and working. Heather curated this collection to educate other African-American women about breastfeeding. That way, they will be armed with information to make a decision. Heather hopes you will join the movement on Twitter. Follow @dearmomdiary and the participants. You can check the #ChocolateMilk blogger ambassador list! Be sure to tweet using #ChocolateMilk. And don’t forget to share your story by clicking on Breastfeeding→ Lactation Nation on the menu bar above. Meanwhile, let us know in the comment box below why you nursed—or didn’t.

One Response

  1. Elle

    Thanks so much Heather for sharing my tips. I pray that moms all over will find the encouragement and support they need to successfully breastfeed.

    Reply

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