Breast Feeding Your Newborn

You will want to give your baby the best it can have and breastfeeding is the first thing you offer to your child. So, you need to know as much as you can about its importance, the right technique and the angle to hold the child. The process should also work for you. Nursing is not the same for everyone, each mum is different and so is each baby. Both mum and baby will have to learn with time.

When do you start breastfeeding? It must be shortly after birth. Sometimes, it may not be possible because of some complication. In that case, you need to know that newborns can learn to suck successfully at a later time. There is no reason to panic. Babies are born with a food reserve so there is no need for nutrients right after birth. The first step in this process is to introduce your breast to your baby.

Colostrum is the first type of milk that comes out. It is a yellowish fluid, rich in nutrients and antibodies that will protect the baby from diseases. It will train your newborn’s digestive system for whatever food that will come later. Remember that, at that tiny size, a baby can only hold about a tablespoon of milk at one time.

Frequency of breastfeeding is generally every two hours. Colostrum and milk digest quickly and easily so the little one’s tummy will be empty soon. Breastfeeding tends to make the baby (and even you) feel relaxed and sleepy, so don’t be surprised if your newborn falls asleep at your breast. At the same time, you’ll have to wake him/her for regular feeding, if he/she naps for long hours. The more you nurse in the first days of birth, the sooner your milk will generate. If you think milk is not coming out enough, a pump can help to speed it up. Your breasts are actually receptive to the demand for milk.

Nursing is not painful, if you are doing it right. You may be sore as your breasts adjust but after that it should be a soothing experience. You must check with a lactating consultant to learn of the correct way to hold the baby and to guide it to your breasts, without inadvertently smothering the little one. Make sure your baby latches on correctly. If you feel a prolonged pinching sensation as the baby sucks, guide your finger into the baby’ mouth to release it from the nipple. Then have the baby latch on again. Alternate between breasts when feeding, so that you won’t feel fullness or discomfort in any one of them.

Special care needs to be taken by you at this stage. Wash your breast before each feed. Eat healthy food and don’t smoke or drink alcohol beverages-whatever you ingest is passed on to your infant through the placenta. Remember that breastfeeding not only fortifies your baby, it creates a special bond between mother and child. So, breastfeed in a relaxing atmosphere without interruptions.