Breastfeeding After a C-SectionIf you just had a C-section, or are planning to have one, you might be wondering:
Can I still breastfeed my baby? The answer is a big YES!
While recovering from surgery adds a few extra steps to your journey, you can absolutely breastfeed your baby successfully. Here is what to expect and some simple tips to make it easier for both of you.
Start Skin-to-Skin as Soon as You Can
Your Milk Supply: What to Expect A common worry for moms who have a C-section is whether their milk will be late.
Your breasts will make colostrum (co-los-trum). This is your baby’s very first milk. It’s thick, usually yellow or clear, and packed with everything your newborn needs.
This is when your milk usually starts to “come in” and increase. After a C-section, this might take an extra day or two. This is normal! It doesn’t mean you can’t make enough milk.
Comfortable Positions to Protect Your Belly Hold your baby tucked under your arm like a football, resting on a pillow beside you. Their feet will point toward your back, keeping all weight off your belly.
Lean back comfortably in bed with lots of pillows supporting your back, shoulders, and arms. Let your baby lie tummy-down on your chest.
Lie on your side with your baby facing you. This position lets you rest your body completely while you feed.
Managing Pain and SwellingTaking care of yourself is a big part of taking care of your baby.
Keeping your pain under control makes it much easier to relax and hold your baby. Many pain medicines used after a C-section are safe to take while breastfeeding. Just make sure to tell your doctors, nurses, and pharmacist that you are nursing so they can give you the right options.
During your surgery, you likely received extra fluids through an IV. This can sometimes cause extra swelling in your body, including your breasts. If your breasts feel very hard or your baby is having trouble latching:
Gently soften the area:
Hand-express a little milk before you nurse to soften the area around your nipple.
Skip the hard massage:
Do not use deep, painful massage or long heat packs, as this can make swelling worse.
Use cold packs:
Put a cold pack wrapped in a clean cloth on your breasts between feeds to reduce swelling.
When to Ask for HelpLearning to breastfeed is a team effort. You don’t have to do it alone! Reach out for help if:
Your doctor, a hospital lactation consultant, and your local WIC breastfeeding peer counselor are always there to support you.
Every breastfeeding journey is unique. Give yourself grace, take time to heal, and enjoy getting to know your sweet baby. You are doing an amazing job!
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