Breastfeeding after a Cesarean (C-section)
Breastfeeding after a cesarean birth can present unique challenges, but with support and guidance, it is absolutely possible to have a successful breastfeeding journey. For many mothers who have undergone a cesarean section, it might take a little longer for their milk to come in due to the hormonal changes and potential stress of the surgery. However, skin-to-skin contact immediately after birth and frequent breastfeeding sessions can help stimulate milk production and establish a strong breastfeeding bond. Mothers who have had a cesarean birth may also find it helpful to try different breastfeeding positions to find the most comfortable and effective one for them.
Prevalence of Cesarean
According to recent statistics, the prevalence of Cesarean sections, commonly known as C-sections, among women has seen a steady increase in recent years. In fact, it is estimated that roughly one in every three births in the United States will be delivered via C-section. This rise in C-section rates can be attributed to a variety of factors, including advancements in medical technology, increased maternal age, multiple pregnancies, and various medical indications such as fetal distress or previous C-sections. Although C-sections can be lifesaving in certain situations, it is crucial for healthcare providers to carefully evaluate each individual case, ensuring that the procedure is necessary and in the best interest of both the mother and baby.
Best Positions for C-Section Breastfeeding
When it comes to breastfeeding after a C-section, finding comfortable positions is key to ensuring a successful and enjoyable experience for both mother and baby. There are a few positions that are particularly well-suited for moms recovering from a C-section. The side-lying position is highly recommended as it allows the mother to lie on her side with a pillow supporting her incision area, allowing for a comfortable latch and minimal strain on the surgical site. The football hold is another popular choice, where the baby is positioned at the side of the mother, with the aid of a pillow for support. This position keeps the baby away from the surgical site and reduces pressure on the abdomen. Finally, the reclined position allows for relaxation and support, where the mother leans back slightly, using pillows to prop up her back and arms. This position can be especially helpful for moms who prefer to have some control over the pressure on their abdomen. Experimenting with different positions and finding the one that is most comfortable and effective for both mother and baby is essential for successful C-section breastfeeding.
Common Occurrences After C-Section
Breastpump-
Requesting a breast pump in the hospital after giving birth can be a beneficial step toward ensuring successful breastfeeding. By asking for a breast pump, mothers can effectively manage their milk supply, relieve engorgement, and provide milk for their babies when they are not available for nursing.
Pain & Medications-
After childbirth, you may experience uterine contractions as your uterus shrinks back to pre-pregnancy size. Those afterbirth contractions may cause pain and discomfort, on top of recovering from abdominal surgery. Do not hesitate to use medications or herbal remedies to soothe your comfort or pain. The hormones expressed from experiencing pain are not favorable to milk production and ejection. As you recover from your C-section, you’ll be given medications to manage the pain. Most pain medications are compatible with breastfeeding, as only small amounts of them pass into your milk. This is not medical advice, as always seek professional advice from your medical providers.
Emotions-
If you experienced a traumatic birth or complications after your C-section, you may feel guilt or anxiety, and if breastfeeding is challenging, things just might feel really hard.
Weight Loss-
When breastfeeding is the goal, many times there is a concern of weight loss after a c-section. Research has shown that IV fluids given during labor or before a planned C-section can artificially inflate a baby’s birth weight. The IV fluids are given to dilute medications used to induce labor, and prevent drops in blood pressure from epidurals and during the C-section. After 24 hours of life, the baby has time to urinate excess fluids and can give a better picture moving forward of weight loss percentages in the weeks to come.
Alternative Feeding Methods
Should you need to use artificial feeding methods bottles, cups, or syringes may be used after birth. Bottle-Feeding: Using pumped or expressed milk to feed the baby with a bottle. This method allows others to participate in feeding as well if the mother is still under anesthesia or not feeling well. Cup Feeding: Using a small cup to offer expressed breast milk. This method can be used for premature infants or those who have difficulty latching onto a bottle or breast. Syringe Feeding: Using a syringe to carefully feed small amounts to the baby, often used for premature babies or those with specific feeding challenges. Other ways to promote milk production following a C-section include-
Skin-to-skin contact. This is a great way to keep your milk supply up, establish breastfeeding, and bond with your baby.
Expressing milk every 2-3 hours if not feeding on demand, due to separation.
Get help! You’re recovering from surgery, caring for a baby, and learning to breastfeed. That’s a lot and you can’t possibly do it alone. Accept offers of help, don’t expect to entertain visitors right now, and make sure you get lots of rest as you recover and snuggle that baby close.
Contact a breastfeeding consultant. If you can’t solve a breastfeeding problem on your own, it may be time to get an expert involved. Usually, the sooner you address a breastfeeding concern, the easier it will be to solve.
Familiarizing yourself with hospital practices and policies can be helpful. Focusing on hospitals that follow the Baby Friendly Initiative is great as well. For example, does your hospital allow you to breastfeed in the operating room, assuming mom and baby are healthy? Will the hospital provide you with a breast pump if your baby can’t be brought to your breast right away? The lactation professionals at Innovations Family Wellness in Tulsa, Oklahoma are here to provide personalized assistance and advice to ensure that mothers who have had a cesarean birth can successfully breastfeed their babies and experience the many benefits of breastfeeding.
Written by T’Kia Walterscheid, IBCLC, CLC, Doula