Breastfeeding

Attention: open in a new window.

Breastfeeding is the ideal 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 and the health care system. 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 6 months of age, and WHO guidelines endorse breastfeeding until the age of two.Breastmilk gives babies all the nutrients they need for the first six months of life and helps protect them from infection and diseases. It also reduces mothers' chances of getting certain diseases later in life. Breastfeeding also allows you and your baby to get closer - physically and emotionally. So while your child is feeding, the bond between you can grow stronger. Bottle feeding does not give your baby the same ingredients as breastmilk, which is designed to be easy for your baby to absorb and is perfect to help him grow and develop. Also, bottle feeding doesn't provide protection against infection and diseases. Breastfeeding helps protect your baby against:

ear infections
gastro-intestinal infections
chest infections
urine infections
childhood diabetes
eczema
obesity
asthma.

Breastfeeding helps protect mothers against:

ovarian cancer
breast cancer
weak bones later in life.

There is also much evidence to suggest that women who breastfeed return to their pre-pregnancy figure faster.

Tips for successful breastfeeding

Make sure your baby is properly attached to the breast

· You will have a good supply of milk and your baby will get a good feed.

· It will help stop your breasts getting sore.

Try not to give your baby other food or drink

· The more you feed your baby, the more milk you will produce. Giving other food or drink will reduce your milk supply.

· You might increase the chance of your baby getting an infection.

Try not to give your baby a dummy

· It can make it more difficult for your baby to attach to your breast.

· Your baby will be less likely to feed when they need to.

Don’t be scared to ask for help It can take a while before you feel confident breastfeeding. Your midwife or health visitor can support you. Or you can contact one of the helplines and organisations that can advise you about breastfeeding. If you stop breastfeeding, it can be difficult to start again.

Add this page to your favorite Social Bookmarking websites