Breastfeeding After a C-Section: A Friendly Guide to Getting Started

Breastfeeding is such a special way to connect with your baby while giving them all the amazing nutrients and benefits that breast milk offers. But if you’ve had a C-section, you might be wondering how to make breastfeeding work while you’re recovering from surgery. It can feel a little overwhelming, especially if you’re dealing with pain, exhaustion, or concerns about your milk supply.

Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Many parents have successfully breastfed after a C-section, and with a little patience, support, and some helpful tips, you’ll be able to enjoy this special bonding time with your baby, too. This guide is here to walk you through it, in a way that’s easy to understand and full of practical advice to make breastfeeding after a C-section as smooth as possible.

What to Expect: Breastfeeding After a C-Section

Breastfeeding after a C-section can be a bit different from breastfeeding after a vaginal birth, but with some adjustments and support, it’s absolutely possible. Here are a few things you might experience:

• Physical discomfort: After surgery, your abdomen will be tender, and finding comfortable positions for breastfeeding might take some creativity.
• Milk supply: Sometimes after a C-section, it can take a little longer for your milk to fully come in. This is totally normal, and there are ways to keep your baby happy and fed while your body adjusts.
• Fatigue: Recovering from surgery while caring for a newborn is tiring, and breastfeeding can feel like another challenge. The key is to take things one step at a time and ask for help when you need it.

Even though it might feel a little tricky at first, many parents find breastfeeding after a C-section to be a wonderful experience, and you can, too!

How to Make Breastfeeding Easier After a C-Section

Here are some friendly tips to help you and your baby get the hang of breastfeeding, even while you’re healing from surgery:

1. Start Breastfeeding as Soon as You Can

As soon as you feel ready (or even before you leave the recovery room), try to start breastfeeding. Skin-to-skin contact with your baby can help both of you relax and get comfortable with breastfeeding. If you’re still groggy from surgery or can’t quite manage it yourself, don’t hesitate to ask a nurse or lactation consultant for help. They’re there to support you!

2. Find Comfortable Breastfeeding Positions

One of the trickiest parts of breastfeeding after a C-section is finding a position that doesn’t put pressure on your incision. Here are a few positions that can help:

• Side-lying position: Lie on your side with your baby next to you. This way, you can nurse without putting any strain on your abdomen, and you can both relax comfortably.
• Football hold: Tuck your baby under your arm, with their head near your breast and their feet pointing toward your back. This position keeps your baby’s weight off your incision and gives you better control.
• Laid-back position: Recline comfortably with your baby on your chest. This position lets gravity do some of the work, making it easier for both of you to relax.

Pillows are your best friend here! Use them to prop yourself up, support your baby, and keep everything comfy.

3. Stay on Top of Pain Relief

It’s hard to focus on breastfeeding if you’re in pain. Make sure you take your pain medication as directed by your doctor so you can move around more easily. Most pain meds are safe for breastfeeding, but if you’re unsure, just double-check with your healthcare provider.

Heating pads, cold packs, or even a soft pillow over your incision area can help with discomfort, too. Don’t hesitate to ask someone to hand you the baby or help you get into a comfortable position—your body is still healing, and it’s okay to ask for extra hands!

4. Hydrate and Nourish Yourself

Breastfeeding burns a lot of energy, so staying hydrated and well-fed is super important. Make sure you’re drinking lots of water and eating nourishing meals. If meal prep feels too exhausting, ask for help from friends or family, or consider having meals delivered. Foods like oats, nuts, and leafy greens can help boost your milk supply, and they’re easy to incorporate into snacks or meals.

5. Be Patient With Your Milk Supply

If your milk doesn’t come in right away, don’t stress. This can be common after a C-section, and your baby is getting plenty of nutrition from the colostrum (the rich, nutrient-packed first milk) in the meantime. Keep offering your baby the breast often—it will help your milk come in, and you’ll both get more comfortable with breastfeeding as you practice together.

If you’re worried about your milk supply, try pumping after feedings to encourage your body to produce more, and reach out to a lactation consultant for support. They can give you advice on boosting supply and making sure your baby is getting enough to eat.

6. Get Support from a Lactation Consultant

Speaking of lactation consultants, they’re an amazing resource! Whether it’s your first baby or your third, getting expert help can make a huge difference. Many hospitals have lactation consultants who can visit you right after delivery, or you can schedule visits at home if needed.

They can help you with latching, positioning, and any other concerns you have. Even a quick check-in can give you the confidence to keep going, especially if things feel challenging at first.

Emotional Support After a C-Section

A C-section can be an emotional experience, especially if it wasn’t part of your birth plan. You might feel a mix of emotions, from relief to disappointment to frustration. Add in the exhaustion from surgery and the pressures of caring for a newborn, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

Here are a few ways to take care of your emotional well-being while breastfeeding after a C-section:

• Be kind to yourself: Recovering from surgery while learning to breastfeed is a big deal. Give yourself grace and celebrate small victories. It’s okay if breastfeeding doesn’t go perfectly at first—it’s a learning process for both you and your baby.
• Talk about your feelings: Don’t keep your feelings bottled up. Talk to your partner, a friend, or a postpartum support group about what you’re going through. Sharing your experiences can help you feel less alone and more supported.
• Celebrate small wins: Whether it’s finding a comfortable position or getting a good latch, every win is worth celebrating! Focus on the progress you’re making, no matter how small.
• Ask for help: Breastfeeding, especially after surgery, can be tough, and there’s no shame in asking for help. Whether it’s someone bringing you a meal, holding the baby while you nap, or just listening to how you feel, leaning on others can make all the difference.

Taking it One Step at a Time

Breastfeeding after a C-section may come with its challenges, but with patience, support, and a few helpful strategies, it’s entirely possible to have a rewarding and successful breastfeeding journey. Remember that it’s okay to take things one day at a time. Your body is healing, and you’re learning something new alongside your baby.

Be gentle with yourself, and reach out for help when you need it. Before you know it, you’ll find your rhythm and enjoy this special bonding time with your baby. You’ve got this!

Thank you for reading this weeks’ blog post ”Breastfeeding After a C-section: A Friendly Guide to Getting Started ,” For more tips and tricks on all things pregnancy, postpartum, and parenthood click here.