Starting to Breast Feed
Preparing to breastfeed - What should you do before the baby arrives?
Starting to breastfeed - When and how do you start breastfeeding?
Pain - If it hurts het help
Look after yourself - You have to be fit and able to breastfeed
Care for your breasts - Look after your breasts when breastfeeding
Preparing to breastfeed
Become informed
Breastfeeding is a natural act, but you it also has to be learned. It is important for mothers, who intend nursing, that they become informed about breastfeeding. Ask your health care provider if they run any breastfeeding classes, talk to your doctor or other mothers, read a book on the subject (see below for examples).Do I need to harden my nipples
No. The hormonal changes during pregnancy should be sufficient. Teaching your baby to latch on properly will prevent your nipples from getting sore.Starting to breastfeed
When do I start?
You should start as soon after the baby is born as possible after birth while his sucking instincts are strongest. Your milk will not have come yet, but your breasts contain colostrum. Colostrum is the perfect first food for your baby and will meet all his nutritional needs for the first couple of days until your milk comes in.Latching on
Hold your baby is on his or her side, facing you. They should be tucked in closely to your body, with their head resting on your forearm. Their nose should be opposite your nipple and he or she should be the same height as the nipple. Some mothers may find it easier to use a pillow at first.When their mouth is open wide, bring your baby towards you so that they take as much of the breast into their mouth as possible. His or her tongue should be under your breast. If you feel a lot of pain, or your breast slips out of their mouth, take them off and start again.
Keep trying until you get it right and you can feel that they are firmly on.
Avoid artificial nipples
Remember that milk production is a supply and demand relationship. If your baby is being given a supplement, he is not stimulating your milk supply, and your milk supply will decrease.Feed on demand
Nursing on demand will stimulate your milk supply and may help relieve engorgement. Don't keep an eye on the clock, your baby knows when he is hungry and when he is full.Pain
If it hurts get help. Contact your doctor or health care provider and they can help you get advice and assistance.Have a look at our Breastfeeding Problems for information on common breastfeeding problems.
Look after yourself
It is essential that you rest a lot and eat three nourishing meals a day, with plenty of drinks while you are feeding. Try to arrange a short timeout in each day (while someone trusted stays with your baby) to rest and relax.Care for your breasts
- Avoid soap
- Don't wash before or after feeding
- Avoid massage oils or creams on the breasts
- Let your breasts dry in the air after each feed
- Wear a well fitting bra
Breastfeeding - Information for nursing mothers
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