Breastfeeding with Success
Breastfeeding is a personal decision every mother will eventually face. Ask ten pediatricians if nursing your baby is a good idea and you’ll probably get ten different answers. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies breastfeed exclusively for at least the first six months of their lives, and at least partially, in combination with solid foods, until they reach one year. Of course, recommendations are only suggestions. Don’t feel tied to numbers and charts. Being a mother is about nature and nurture, not robotic functions.
Like most decisions in life you need to trust in your instincts. Whether you choose to nurse your child is up to you but if you decide to breastfeed there are a number of useful tips to make this important bonding with your baby healthy, painless and satisfying to both you and your child.
As any mother will tell you breastfeeding is a natural occurrence and begins as soon as the baby is born since your breasts have already begun to produce milk. Even if your breasts have yet to produce mature milk they are producing a substance called colostrum which will help prevent infections in your baby. Research has shown that babies that breastfeed are significantly less likely to develop problems such as ear infections, pneumonia and even urinary-tract infections.
It is recommended that you begin breastfeeding your baby within an hour of the delivery. This is suggested since it will take advantage of baby’s instinct to suckle, act as a primer pump for your milk and begins the bonding experience. Hold your baby to your nipple and be patient. Yes, it’s easy to say but not always easy to practice. Breastfeeding is as much art as it is science and it will take time before a comfort level is reached. Do not panic if the first few attempts go less than smooth. You are learning along with your baby so take your time and learn what works and what doesn’t.
Don’t forget that you are in a hospital and nurses have seen this a thousand times. If you’re having trouble or anxiety don’t panic, ask a nurse or doctor for help and they will be able to guide you through what at first can seem to be a painful, uncomfortable process. Breastfeeding shouldn’t be a discomfort. Most problems occur due to impatient mothers and of course an impatient baby. Relax. Let your baby familiarize his mouth with your nipple and allow a natural rhythm to form with his sucking motions.
Some tips that the feeding is going well include baby’s mouth being wide open with his lips curled out, his mouth is covering the areola and his swallowing is regular.
When your baby latches on be mindful of how your breasts and nipple feels. It should not be a painful experience. If it is causing discomfort tell a nurse or doctor and find out if there may be a problem with the baby’s gums. If the latch on hurts gently separate your baby’s gums by placing your finger between the nipple and gums and then try again. Once his lips are secure you’re job is done, he’ll do the rest.