Breast Feeding
Breast Milk
- provides the best food for your baby to grow- Breast is Best.
- protects your baby from infections
- prevents allergies
- it is very easy for babies to digest
- contains all the nutrients required for normal growth & development of a baby from birth to 6 months.
Feeding helps the mother:
- to get her shape back sooner
- lets you feed a hungry baby fast
- lets you rest, especially when you nurse lying down
For the benefit of both :
- a special time to get to know each other & “bond”
Like most mothers, you want to give your baby the very best in life. Breast feeding is the natural way to feed your baby. Breast milk has everything your baby needs to grow strong and healthy.
Frequently asked questions about Breast feeding
Will I make enough milk?
The secret to making enough milk is simple. The more your baby nurses, the more milk your body will make. If your breasts are emptied, they make more milk. When they stay full they stop making milk. The size of your breasts does not indicate how much milk you will make.
Is there any special diet / food for Breast feeding?
No, not, really. A normal balanced diet is adequate.
If you drink enough to not feel thirsty and eat enough to feel full, your milk will have everything your baby needs. You do not have to eat a special diet.
Is it hard to breastfeed? Is there any special technique?
Breast feeding is not hard to learn. There is no one right way to do it. Of course, it takes some time getting used to at first, but with practice, breastfeeding is easy. Good latching, bonding, positioning & sucking, helps your baby get the best. If required get advice & support.
Will breastfeeding change my breasts?
When your breastfeed, your breasts are about the same size as they are when you are pregnant. Some women think that breast feeding makes breasts sag. This is not true. Pregnancy makes some women’s breasts sag whether they breastfeed or not.
Can I express breast milk?
Yes, you can express by hand or use a pump & store the milk for feeding later. Breast milk can be left at room temp for up to 10 hours, in the fridge for up to 24 hours & in the freezer (-20 C) for a month.
Will breastfeeding tie me down?
It will be easy to take your breastfed baby with you. Your milk will be ready no matter how long you are away from home. There are no formulas to mix or bottles to wash. If you need to leave your baby with someone, you can nurse before you leave and come back in two or three hours to nurse again. Or, you can leave behind a bottle of expressed milk.
Are breastfed babies spoiled?
Breast feeding is an ideal opportunity to get close to your baby. Babies need to know that they are not alone so they can feel safe and loved. All babies learn to trust if they are picked up when they cry. You will get a really close feeling when you breastfeed. Babies are not spoiled by breast feeding.
Can I breastfeed if I’m nervous?
Nursing will help you feel relaxed. Even if you do get worried, sad or angry, these feelings will not change your breast milk.
Does breast feeding hurt?
Breastfeeding should not hurt. When your baby is nursing and getting milk, you just feel a tug. If you do get sore or have pain something needs to change. You may need to teach the baby a better way to get on the breast. Ask for help if you experience soreness or continuous discomfort.
How often do I have to feed?
You should feed on demand (baby cries for a feed) and approximately every 2-4 hours.
Special Circumstances:
- Twins – you can breast feed both twins simultaneously or separately.
- After a caesarean especially under General Anaesthesia, a delay is unavoidable & should not affect breast feeding.
- Premature /sick / nursery babies can be given breast milk by tube feeding.
- For any sore breasts cracked nipples or infection (mastitis) seek immediate medical attention.