Breast Feeding

Breast feeding your newborn provides more than just healthy nutrition. It gives a mother the opportunity to cuddle, make eye contact and hold your newborn close. These are relaxing and wonderful moments that bring you closer together emotionally. Below are some additional benefits associated with breastfeeding :

• Convenient  : Breastfeeding doesn’t require special equipment or preparation.
• Economic  : Breastfeeding is less expensive than other methods. The average cost of formula can range from $134-$491 per month which is $1,608 - $5,892 in one year.
• Burns Calories  : On average breastfeeding burns up to 400 calories a day. Breastfeeding mothers showed more fat loss one month postpartum and an earlier return to pre-pregnant weight when compared to formula-feeding mothers.
• Helps heal  : Breastfeeding helps a mother get back into shape internally because it releases hormones that cause mild contractions of the uterus.
• Delays menstruation  : Breastfeeding can delay menstruation by causing a release of prolactin, which keeps ovulation from being triggered.
• More effective vaccines : Research indicates breastfed babies have a better antibody response to vaccines.
• Provides protection : Breastfed babies may be better protected against colds, allergies, diarrhea and various infections.
• Creates a bond  : The close bond that breastfeeding creates provides a tremendous amount of emotional gratification. 
• Lower SIDS risk  : Breastfeeding lowers a baby’s risk of sudden infant death syndrome by about half.
• Lowers cancer risk  : Breastfeeding can decrease a baby’s risk of some childhood cancers. Mothers who breastfeed have a lower risk of premenopausal breast cancer and ovarian cancer.

In the beginning, breastfeeding often requires practice and patience. If it doesn’t happen immediately, do not be discouraged. While the two of you will learn together what works best, below are some helpful suggestions :

• Find a comfortable position. Whether it's lying on your side facing your baby or sitting in a supportive chair while cradling him. It will often take trial and error to find a position that works best for you and your baby.
• Support your body. Use pillows to lend extra back and arm support.
• Support your breast. When lactating, breasts get heavier and larger. While you nurse, use your hand to support your breast.
• Support your baby. Use your arm, hand, and pillows to support your baby’s head, neck, and back. Help your baby find the nipple by stroking the cheek nearest your breast and positioning the baby’s mouth slightly under the nipple.
• Cuddle your baby. Breastfeeding is a warm, intimate time for bonding with your baby.
• Burp your baby. Burp halfway through and at the end of each feeding.

Note : The first milk a baby will receive from its mother is called colostrum. Colostrum is a yellowish liquid, rich in protein and vitamin A that helps clear the baby's intestinal tract.

Feed your baby whenever he seems hungry. In the beginning, to help prevent discomfort, you’ll want to limit the time on each breast to three to five minutes and feed off both. Gradually increase the time to a duration most comfortable for each of you.

Typically, a baby may need to feed every 3 to 5 hours during the day. Minimum feeding interval should be about two hours. Typically, a baby has had enough to eat if he seems content and has lots of wet diapers.

Sore nipples : Many mothers report that nipples may be sore or tender at first. Breastfeeding should be comfortable once you have found a position that works, and a good latch is key. If your experiencing soreness :

• Try breaking your baby’s suction by placing a clean finger in the corner of his mouth and then try re latching.
• Change positions each time your breastfeed and alternate breasts.
• If the pain and discomfort persists, get help from a healthcare provider before using a non-aspirin pain reliever or trying creams, hydro-gel pads or a nipple shield.

Low milk supply : Most mothers can make plenty of milk for their babies, but if you have concerns about having enough, there are some tips that may help.

• Make sure your baby is latched appropriately and comfortable
• Allow your baby decide how long to feed.
• Use both breasts at each feeding
• Avoid using baby formula or cereal.
• Limit or stop pacifier use

Oversupply of milk  : Having an overfull breast is both stressful and uncomfortable for both mother and baby. Below are some tips that may help bring some relief:

• If one breast feels full before you are ready to breastfeed, use your hand for a few moments to relieve pressure . You may also use a cold compress or washcloth to reduce swelling.
• Feed your baby before he or she becomes overly hungry.
• Breastfeed on one side for each feeding. Use the same side for at least two hours until the next full feeding . Then gradually increase the length of time per feeding.
• Try various positions.
• Consult your doctor or ask a lactation consultant for help if you are unable to manage an oversupply of milk on your own.