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Even though you know it?s going to happen, the reality of being on-call 24 hours a day for your hungry infant can be a bit of a shock. No clocking out at 5:00 p.m., no settling in for eight hours of uninterrupted sleep, not when your baby needs your breasts.
But there are some things that can make it just a little easier:
1. Nighttime feedings are key

Know that these nighttime feedings are important. Your body produces more prolactin (the hormone that promotes milk production) when you breastfeed at night, so night feedings help to keep up milk production. As well, mothers vary in the amount of milk they can store in their breasts, so for many women night feedings are essential to meeting their babies? needs. 2. Find a comfortable position

Learn to breastfeed lying down as soon as you can! If you can?t sleep, at least you can get some rest if you?re horizontal. Here?s how:

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Lie on your side, with a pillow or two to support your head. A pillow between your knees may help you feel comfortable. Position the baby, lying on his side, so his nose is level with your nipple. (If your breasts are on the smaller side, you may need a firm pillow under the baby to bring him up level with your nipple.) With one hand,...