3 Most Common Mistakes Plus-Size Women Make When Nursing Their Babies

Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural process, but it can come with its fair share of challenges.

For plus-size women, in particular, there might be unique hurdles to overcome. However, understanding these common mistakes and how to avoid them can make the journey smoother and more enjoyable for both mother and baby. Here, we’ll explore three frequent mistakes plus-size women make while nursing and provide tips on how to address them.

1. Wearing the Wrong Nursing Bras

The Need for Proper Fit

Wearing ill-fitting nursing bras can cause discomfort and even health issues. Plus-size women should invest in high-quality, supportive nursing bras for large breasts that accommodate changes in breast size.

Anita’s collection of nursing bras for large breasts are made out of extra soft and comfortable materials that provide perfect support and gentle shaping, as well as nursing clips on the straps that are easy to open with one hand for uncomplicated breastfeeding. This eliminates the need to remove your bra entirely when feeding time for your little one comes around.

Finding the Right Bra

The easiest way to find the perfect nursing bras for you is to get professionally measured for them. That’s because your size might have changed post-pregnancy.

When shopping for a nursing bra, it’s also a good idea to look for wide straps and bands. These will help improve the support offered by the bra, as well as distribute the weight of your breasts more evenly.

Finally, you may want to stay away from underwire bras for the time being, unless they’ve been specifically designed for nursing. An ill fitting underwire can cause blocked ducts, making it harder to produce breast milk.

2. Choosing the Wrong Nursing Positions

Experiment with Different Positions

Plus-size women often struggle with finding comfortable nursing positions. The traditional cradle hold might not be the most suitable. Experimenting with different positions can help find what works best for both you and your baby.

Suggested Positions

The football hold, also known as the clutch hold, is a popular breastfeeding position that can be particularly beneficial for plus-size women.

This position allows the mother to have better control and visibility of the baby’s latch, and it can be more comfortable for those with larger breasts. In it, you hold your baby beside you, under your arm, similar to how a football player might carry a football. Bring your baby to your breast instead of crouching down to reach their mouth, and make sure that they latch on deeply.

Another good breastfeeding position, especially for night feedings, is the side-lying position. In it, you lie on your side and position the baby similarly, facing you, with their mouth level with your nipple.

From there, carefully guide your baby’s mouth to your breast and encourage them to open their mouth wide, making sure that they take in a good portion of the areola and not just your nipple. If necessary, use a small pillow or a rolled-up blanket behind your baby’s back to keep them from rolling away while being fed.

3. Ignoring the Importance of Diet and Hydration

Nourishing Yourself

A well-balanced diet and staying hydrated are crucial for milk production and overall health. Plus-size women might face misconceptions about their dietary needs, but it’s essential to focus on nutrition.

Dietary Tips

While you’re breastfeeding, it’s important to make sure that you’re eating balanced meals that consist of a mix of proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Try to stay away from junk food or fast food for the time being.

To maintain milk supply, you’ll also want to stay adequately hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and minimize your consumption of sugary drinks, sodas, or coffee.

If necessary, you may want to consider taking supplements such as postnatal vitamins, or increasing your intake of specific lactation-boosting foods.

Breastfeeding as a plus-size woman comes with its unique set of challenges, but these can be navigated with the right knowledge and support. By avoiding common mistakes and seeking tailored advice, you can ensure a fulfilling nursing experience for both you and your baby!

Leave a Reply