Getting pregnant again after just a few months of giving birth can happen. This causes the baby to be born when the older sibling may still need to breastfeed. Like it or not, you have to breastfeed two children at once or tandem nursing. How, yes, how to do it?
Tandem nursing is a term for mothers who breastfeed their newborns and continue to breastfeed their younger siblings. Breastfeeding activities alone can be done simultaneously or separately.
This is not an easy thing to do, especially if the older sibling is not ready for weaning and prefers to breastfeed.
Mothers may also worry that breast milk will not be enough if two children drink it at the same time, especially since Sis is able to drink more. If this is the case, no need to worry, Bun. Breast milk production will also increase when the "demand" of the child increases, how come.
Tips for Success Doing Tandem Nursing
Breastfeeding toddlers and newborns at the same time can be a challenge for mothers. In order to successfully do tandem nursingYou can apply the tips below:
1. Prioritize newborns
Your little one needs breast milk more than her brother, because breast milk is the main source of nutrition for newborns. In addition, breast milk is also very important to build the little one's immune system. So, Mother must breastfeed the Little One first and more often, yes, Bun. Newborns should breastfeed at least every 2-3 hours.
2. Sufficient fluid needs
Producing breast milk will require a lot of water. About 90% of breast milk is water. you know. In addition, the body will also produce the hormone oxytocin which takes the mother's body fluids to be used as breast milk. This is what causes you to get thirsty easily when breastfeeding.
When breastfeeding two children at once, of course you need to drink more. Drink at least 3.5 liters of water every day to avoid dehydration and keep your milk production smooth.
3. Eat nutritious food
In addition to sufficient fluid needs, breastfeeding mothers are also highly recommended to eat foods that are rich in nutrients. Mothers need energy to produce breast milk. In addition, the nutrients that you eat will get to your children through breast milk.
Therefore, be wise in choosing the food that you will consume. Foods recommended for breastfeeding mothers include fish, eggs, green vegetables, nuts, and seeds.
4. Do all the fun things
Breastfeeding mothers are advised to avoid stress as much as possible because it can reduce milk production. Unfortunately, this is very vulnerable to happen, especially with Big Brother who also still needs a lot of attention. In order to avoid stress, you can, you know, make time for me time.
Use this time to do things that make you happy or establish a relationship with your friends. Ask your spouse or family member to help out with the kids for a few hours.
5. Get enough rest
Having two small children can take up your time and energy. In order to stay healthy and fit, you are advised to get enough rest every day. Plus, getting enough rest can also prevent you from stress.
Mothers can take advantage of Little and Brother's nap time by sleeping with them. Forget for a moment the piled up homework. Once refreshed, Mother can play with the children or continue the pending homework.
6. Consult a doctor
Tandem nursing not all mothers can do it. Better, tell the doctor that you do tandem nursing and check your little one regularly. That way, the doctor can monitor the growth and development of your little one and determine whether he is getting enough milk or not.
Having to breastfeed a newborn and her toddler sister is tiring. However, this can be a valuable and rewarding experience for you. Besides being able to strengthen the mother's inner bond with the children, this activity can also strengthen the relationship between the big brother and the little one.
While undergoing tandem nursing, Mother should not immediately put aside your needs. Remember, kindness to Mother is kindness to children too. If you feel overwhelmed, don't hesitate to consult a doctor or breastfeeding counselor.
