Mother's milk provides immunity & essential nutrients to the new born baby. It contains adequate proteins, less fats, protective antibodies, vitamins & minerals. It’s Bio-value is priceless since it's sterile & easy accessible to the baby.
Longer durations of breastfeeding also contribute to the health and well-being of mothers: it reduces the risk of ovarian and breast cancer and helps space pregnancies–exclusive breastfeeding of babies under 6months has a hormonal effect which often induces a lack of menstruation. This is a natural (though not fail-safe) method of birth control known as the Lactation Amenorrhoea Method.
WHO recommends:
- Breast feeding within 1 hour of childbirth.
- Exclusive breast feeding for 6 months.
- Continued breast feeding along with appropriate complementary food up to 2 years of age or beyond.
Breastfeeding is a skill that needs to be learnt, and it can take time and practice to understand.Use your intuitive instinct as a mother. There’s no right or wrong. A good position is one that helps you get a good latch; a good latch is one that is comfortable for the mother and works for the baby to get milk. Ultimately,the best position is the one that works.
Point to remember:
- Colostrum, the yellowish, sticky breast milk produced at the end of pregnancy, is recommended by WHO as the perfect food for the newborn.
- Clean hands, nipple & areolar region before & after feed with warm water.·
- Sleeping close to your baby & breast feeding whenever your baby wants helps stimulate milk production.
- Prevent sore & cracked nipples by using mild lubrication with edible oils ·
- A good position is one that helps you get a good latch; a good latch is one that is comfortable for the mother and works for the baby to get milk. Ultimately, the best position is the one that works.
- Sometimes women have flat nipples & it has to be corrected before delivery itself.
- Mother's should get plenty of healthy food water & rest.
- Encourage skin to skin contact between mother & baby soon after birth.
- More suckling helps in secretion of more milk.
- Remember to feed when your baby needs, on-demand feeding is important.
- Try not to introduce a bottle or other nipples,including pacifiers, until breastfeeding is well established. The suckling motion required to breast feed is different from that required to suck artificial nipple, and Baby could get confused.
How often will my baby feed?
Each baby is individual, and it may depend on the type of birth you've had. Your baby should feed within the first hour after birth to get off to a good start.
Why is On-demand feeding so important?
A newborn baby’s stomach is only the size of a walnut, they feed "little and often". Your baby can have a good feed and be hungry again quite quickly. Babies go through patterns of feeding more and less as they grow. Letting them feed when they need will ensure that they're content and getting the milk they need, when they need it.
How long should each feed last?
Every baby is unique. Some babies want frequent short feeds, and others prefer feeding for longer. Let your baby finish the first breast, then offer the second. If your baby feeds all the time and you're worried, contact you doctor.
Can I still breastfeed if I have more than one baby?
Yes, because multiple babies are more likely to be born prematurely and have a low birth weight, breast milk is especially important for their well being. When you start breastfeeding you may find it easier to feed each of your babies separately until feeding is well established and you feel confident about handling them at the same time. This may take a few weeks. It can be really helpful to talk to other mothers who have breastfed twins.
Can I breastfeed after a caesarean?
Yes, you can. Make sure you get a skin-to-skin cuddle with your baby as soon as you're able to. If you keep your baby close to you and maintain lots of skin-to-skin contact, you’ll be able to put them to the breast often, and this will stimulate your milk supply.After a caesarean you might find that the "Football Hold"(baby’s body is around to the side of your body supported by the arm on the same side) is preferable to having the baby lying on your stomach”. If you have a planned caesarean, express some breast milk before you have the baby. Use afterwards if necessary, either by cup or by syringe.
How long should I breastfeed for?
Exclusive breastfeeding (with no other food or drink) is recommended for around the first six months of a baby's life. After this,breastfeed alongside other foods for as long as you and your baby wish. This might be into their second year or beyond.Every day you breastfeed makes a difference to you and your baby. There’s no need to decide at the beginning how long you'll breastfeed for. Many mothers continue to breastfeed when they return to work or college.
How do I know if my baby's getting enough milk?
Your baby will appear content and satisfied after most feeds.They should be gaining weight after the first two weeks.Your breasts and nipples should not be sore.In the first 48 hours, your baby is likely to have only two or three wet nappies.From day five onwards, wet nappies should start to become more frequent, with at least 6-7 wet nappies every 24 hours.They should appear healthy and alert when they're awake.
If you have any problems breastfeeding, never hesitate to ask for help. You doctor & nursing staff will be glad to help. Stay far away from stress & enjoy feeding your baby. Trust your instincts & believe that you have created this baby & you will be able to sustain your baby with all the nutrition & other necessary resources.