Have
you seen
the World Health Organization's recommendations for breastfeeding?
"Breastfeeding is the normal way of
providing young infants with the nutrients they need for healthy
growth and development. Virtually all mothers can breastfeed,
provided they have accurate information, and the support of their
family, the health care system and society at large.
Colostrum, the yellowish, sticky
breast milk produced at the end of pregnancy, is recommended by WHO
as the perfect food for the newborn, and feeding should be initiated
within the first hour after birth.
Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended
up to six months of age, with continued breastfeeding, along with
appropriate complementary foods, up to two years of age or beyond."
You
should think
about how you plan to feed your baby long before they are born. Most
women in England choose to breastfeed nowadays.
Breastfeeding
has many
advantages. Besides
the emotional benefit of creating a strong bond between mother and
child, it protects your baby from infections and diseases. Breast
milk is free, available anytime your baby needs a feed and is always
at the right temperature.
Your
baby will be alert and keen to feed
soon after birth. If you need any help, your midwife will offer
support with positioning
and attachment.
Your
baby will be happier if you keep them near you and feed them whenever
they are hungry. This will remind your body to produce plenty of
milk. The
more you breastfeed, the more milk you will produce. The time between
feeds will vary, and you and your baby will settle into a pattern
which may change from time to time. It's
important to also breastfeed at night because this is when you
produce more of the hormone prolactin, to increase your milk supply.
Babies
normally have a sleep after being fed and will let
you know when they are ready for the next feed. The signs include:
starting to move as they wake up, moving their head around and/or
sucking on something - usually their fingers.
Consult
your doctor if:
- you
are very uncomfortable breastfeeding
- you
are sore
- you
experience problems in managing
the practicalities of breastfeeding.
At Richmond
Practice, our
midwife, as well as our
gynaecologists,
can
offer information and practical help with breastfeeding. Talk to our
midwife about the information and support available in your area.
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