Preparing for Breastfeeding: A Guide for Expectant Moms in St. Louis
Welcome to Motherhood
Congratulations on your pregnancy! As a luxury maternity and newborn photographer in St. Louis, I’ve had the privilege of working with many new moms and witnessing the beautiful journey of motherhood. One topic that often comes up is breastfeeding—an important and rewarding experience for both mother and baby. This guide aims to provide you with essential information to help you prepare for breastfeeding, so you feel confident and supported as you embark on this journey.
Benefits of Breastfeeding
Nutritional Benefits: Breastfeeding provides your baby with perfectly balanced nutrition tailored to their needs. It contains antibodies that help protect your baby from infections and diseases.
Bonding Time: Breastfeeding promotes a strong emotional connection between you and your baby. The skin-to-skin contact and the act of nursing help strengthen your bond.
Preparing for Breastfeeding Before Birth
Educational Resources: Knowledge is power. St. Louis offers various breastfeeding classes and workshops. Hospitals like Missouri Baptist Medical Center and Mercy Hospital St. Louis offer excellent prenatal breastfeeding classes.
Consulting with Professionals: Meeting with a lactation consultant can provide personalized advice and support. St. Louis is home to many reputable lactation consultants. Some well-known names include the consultants at The Abeille Feeding Clinic and La Leche League of Greater St. Louis.
Reading and Research: Equip yourself with knowledge by reading books and online resources about breastfeeding. Some recommended reads include "The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding" by La Leche League International and "Breastfeeding Made Simple" by Nancy Mohrbacher.
Setting Up Your Breastfeeding Space
Comfortable Environment: Create a cozy and functional breastfeeding nook in your home. A comfortable chair, good lighting, and a small table for essentials can make a big difference.
Essential Supplies: Some must-have items include nursing pillows, breast pumps, nursing bras, and nipple cream. Stores like Cotton Babies and Pottery Barn Kids in St. Louis carry a wide range of breastfeeding supplies.
Overcoming Common Challenges
Common Issues: It’s normal to face challenges like latching problems, sore nipples, and low milk supply. Don’t get discouraged—help is available.
Local Support Groups: Joining a support group can provide encouragement and advice. La Leche League of Greater St. Louis and local Facebook groups are great places to connect with other breastfeeding moms. The Abeille Feeding Clinic offers a FREE infant feeding support group and parent meetup on Fridays.
Balancing Breastfeeding with Newborn Photography
Capturing Precious Moments: Timing your newborn photography session around breastfeeding schedules can help ensure a smoother experience. Babies are often more content and cooperative after feeding.
Comfort During Sessions: During a photography session, it's important to keep both mom and baby comfortable. I always ensure there are breaks for feeding and provide a relaxed environment for my clients.
Local Resources and Community Support
St. Louis Resources: Take advantage of local resources like the breastfeeding support programs at Barnes-Jewish Hospital and St. Luke’s Hospital. Many hospitals have lactation consultants and mother support groups.
Online Communities: St. Louis Moms Blog and local parenting forums can be valuable resources for advice and support from fellow moms.
In Conclusion
Breastfeeding is a deeply personal journey that comes with its own set of rewards and challenges. Remember, you’re not alone—there’s a wealth of support and resources available right here in St. Louis.
If you’re looking to capture this special time in your life, I’d love to help. My maternity and newborn photography sessions are designed to create timeless memories for you and your family. Contact me to book a session and celebrate this incredible chapter of your life.
Embrace the journey, and know that you have a community here to support you every step of the way.
Are you expecting a new baby soon? Check out my curated list of some of my favorite baby items HERE
and my list of must-have baby items for your registry list HERE
You can find all my favorite mom, home, and photography items here:
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I would love to help you with maternity, newborn, children, and family portrait sessions at my studio in Winghaven, MO or for outdoor portraits in the greater St. Charles and St. Louis County areas.
Get in touch today to customize your dream session!
Sargent Photography is a custom portrait maternity, newborn, and family photographer in O’Fallon, Missouri serving the greater St. Charles and St. Louis area.
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