Mothers who go through cesarean delivery are just as successful  in breastfeeding  as mothers  who deliver vaginally. You just have to make sure your commitment to breastfeeding remains high. Most cesarean deliveries are unplanned. This may make you feel disappointed and emotional which can in turn   inhibit the flow of breast milk. However women who plan a c-section are fully prepared for breastfeeding.

The method of delivery really has little effect on breastfeeding. Your breastmilk will come in quickly  as if you had vaginal delivery.  It is however important to start breastfeeding as soon as you are able to and continue breastfeeding as frequently as you can. This will ensure good breastmilk supply. You shouldn’t worry if even you need a few hours to recover from surgery, you will be able to breastfeed as soon as you are up to it.

Pain medication and breastfeeding

 
Most pain medications given to women who go through cesarean delivery have little effect on the newborn. You are likely to get regional anesthesia such as epidural rather than general anesthesia. Less regional anesthesia get into the blood than the general anesthesia. It therefore causes less sedation in the newborn.  The baby may just feel a bit sleepy and suckle less but there will be no long term negative  effect. Even if you get a general anesthesia, you will be able to breastfeed as soon as you wake up. If you are planning to breastfeed , it is important to discuss your plans to breastfeed with your doctor and anesthesiologist.  Little pain medication gets into breastmilk. However the benefits of breastfeeding  outweighs this risks. It is  important  to control pain after a cesarean delivery. Pain interferes with oxytocin,which is a hormone which lets breastmilk flow readily. If you have  any concerns about breastfeeding and pain medication, contact your doctor or lactation consultant.

How to comfortably breastfeed after a cesarean delivery

 
Breastfeeding may be uncomfortable at first.  However you can keep adjusting  until you find a favorable position you are comfortable with. One way is sitting on the bed and using  one or two pillows to support your baby on your lap so that your incision is protected. Another way is lying on your side with your baby facing you. You can also try the football hold by using enough pillows to raise the baby’s head to the level of your breast. As your incision heals, nursing will be much easier because you will be able to get about more easily.  Get help from friends and family so that you can concentrate  on recovery and breastfeeding.