Tips on breastfeeding after a cesarean section

It’s recommended that breastfeeding begin as soon as possible after the delivery of your baby. However, if you’ve had a cesarean delivery, known as a C-section, you might be experiencing some discomfort and have concerns about the process.

But with a little help, and some carefully placed pillows, it’s easier than you might think to begin breastfeeding as soon after delivery as you feel able to. Here are a few things moms should know about breastfeeding after a C-section.

Pain

As well as the normal sensations caused by your uterus contracting, C-section moms have pain from the incision as well. “Discomfort near the C-section incision can make breastfeeding somewhat awkward. With help, however, you’ll be able to start breastfeeding soon after the C-section,” according to the Mayo Clinic. I

t is most important to have mom in a position of comfort before initiating the feeding. Use pillows or position the hospital bed or chair to support her and reduce “pull” or “tension” on the incision site.

A pillow placed or held up against her abdomen is also helpful as it can reduce the sense of “feeling like things are moving” inside. Parents magazine contributor, Jessica Hartshorn, suggests trying certain holds while you heal.

“The football hold, where baby is tucked beside you, will be easier for now, or you can try breastfeeding while lying down,” says Hartshorn. The traditional cradle hold might be uncomfortable and tough on your stomach, and there is also a variety of nursing pillows that can help you nurse more easily and comfortably. If you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to a nurse or lactation consultant. They will help you find the best position.

Medications

Another concern is medications moms are exposed to due to C-section births. Painkillers or Analgesics Some pain medications may have an effect on your baby, but typically they are safe for nursing moms.

“At most, they’ll make your baby a bit sleepy,” says Hartshorn. There has been quite a bit of research on the use of these medications and their safety for your baby.

“The benefit of painkillers is that they’ll help you relax enough to breastfeeding and stimulate milk production,” she adds.

Anesthesia General anesthesia – where you go to sleep during the delivery - can make you and your baby sleepy for a while after the C-section If an epidural was used this should not be a problem If you are planning to donate your extra breastmilk, the milk banks may have certain requirements for milk pumped while you were on painkillers or after anesthesia.  Be sure to let the milk bank know all medications or anesthetics you were on, and the milk bank will help you determine what milk is acceptable for donation.

Breastfeed early and often

Ideally, you want to breastfeed within the first hour after birth. C-section can result in a delay of your milk coming in so have a plan to start breastfeeding as soon as possible. Be sure to share this plan with the nurse in Labor & Delivery.

As long as you and your baby are fine after the delivery, it is very important to have your baby placed skin-to-skin on your chest. Both you and your baby are releasing hormones after delivery that assist with early breastfeeding.

If you have to be separated from your baby, ask for a breast pump to stimulate milk production.  According to Kellymom.com, studies have shown when it takes longer than four to six hours to start breastfeeding, babies have more difficulty and engorgement is more severe. It’s important to nurse every two to three hours. Aim for 10 to 12 feedings every 24 hours during the early weeks. The more frequently you nurse, the greater the milk production.

Get support

It may be necessary to have someone help you at home. “You may have trouble walking, lifting the baby, and caring for older children,” says Hartshorn.

Ask your partner to take off extra time or if that isn’t possible, rely on family and friends. Hartshorn suggests asking your healthcare provider for recommendations on a postpartum doula or baby nurse.

Be sure to get the name and number of a lactation professional either at the hospital, your primary care provider’s office or the community that you can reach out to if you have any difficulties.

While a C-section presents a few extra challenges to moms who are breastfeeding, you can overcome them. Just make sure you take care of yourself, take your time, and accept help. As you heal, breastfeeding will become easier.