Breastfeeding
The correct feeding of newborn babies is critical to their health and wellbeing. It has been widely agreed that breast milk is the best way to feed a newborn. Not only does it have all the nutrients they need but it also allows the baby to bond with the mother.
The first thing for new mothers to remember about breastfeeding is that positioning the baby is very important. By making sure that your baby is latching on to the breast properly, they will not have any trouble with regards to suckling. By making sure that their babies latch on properly, mothers can be sure that there will be a regular supply of breast milk and that their babies will get as much milk as they want.
Babies instinctively know how to latch on to the breast but they may need some help at times. When it is time to breastfeed, hold your baby on its side while supporting its shoulders and neck. When your baby latches on to your breast, make sure that a large part of the areola, the dark skin around the nipple, is drawn into its mouth along with the nipple. When your baby has had enough, it will stop suckling and fall asleep. If you need to stop the breastfeeding session earlier than usual, place a clean finger in the corner of your baby's mouth, between the gums, and gently remove the nipple.
When it comes to positioning your baby during breastfeeding, try the following tips:
- Keep your baby's body close to yours, making sure that its tummy, hips, knees and nose are facing you.
- Position your baby in such a way that gets its nose or lower lip in line with your nipple.
- Let your baby go to the breast. Do not bring the breast to it
- Breast feeding is easier if your baby is not wrapped in a blanket.
- Regardless of whether you are sitting or lying down, make sure that you are comfortable and that your back is supported.
- Try to rest your baby's head on your forearm.
Colostrum is a substance that the breasts secrete late in pregnancy or within a day of giving birth. It is very nutritious for babies as it helps to build their immune systems and stop viral infections. New mothers should introduce their babies to colostrum within the first days of their lives, even if they do not plan on breastfeeding. A newborn baby only needs 5 ml of colostrum every two hours within the first 24 hours of life. It is especially useful for sleepy newborns.
In terms of frequency, babies may need to be breastfed between 10 and 12 times every 24 hours during the first few days. Babies can feed for as little as five minutes or as long as an hour but if they feed for less or more time, the latch has to be checked. By breastfeeding regularly, mothers will produce more milk and will ensure that their babies are well-fed.
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