All about Breast feeding

First of all, I wanted to greet everyone a good day. Its been a while since I wrote something here on read.cash. I've been busy on my review for my OET. I hope that I can pass it so I can work in the United Kingdom and fulfill all my dreams and give a better future for my daughter.

So today Im gonna write about the basics of breast feeding

Everyone knows how important breastfeeding is and usually new moms have a lot of questions about it that's why I decided to write about this breastfeeding basics.

Mom should nurse their babies on-demand every 1 and a half hours to 3 hours during the day but what about night feedings? It is normal for babies to wake throughout the night for feedings. Remember that each baby is different, while some babies sleep longer during the night, others will wake wanting to be fed. It is not necessary to wake the baby at night unless your breasts are full or uncomfortable or if the baby fed infrequently during the day. Just keep in mind that there should not be more than a 5 hour interval at night even if the baby fed often during the day.

Guidelines for how often to nurse your baby

Offer your baby the breast whenever you see signs of hunger such as smacking their lips, sucking motions or sucking hands or if they move toward your breasts while being held. Remember that crying is a late sign of hunger. Watching for signs of hunger before the baby starts crying will help you and your baby have an easier time of breastfeeding for the first few weeks.

Breastfed babies will feed 8 to 12 times within 24 hours. A minimum of 8 feedings to maintain good health and nutrition. Some infants are sleepy and need to be woken for feeding to maintain adequate weight after the first 3 weeks. Most babies will continue to feed on demand and may even need to feed more frequently during growth spurts. These usually happen at ten days, three weeks, six weeks, three months and six months. To new mothers it feels sometimes like they are feeding all the time as far as milk supply.

Some things to know about milk supply

Milk supply is increased by greater frequency and duration of breastfeeding. The more you nurse, the more your milk supply will increase.

Milk supply is also enhanced by maternal rest and relaxation. Moms need their rest and it is a good idea to keep your visitors to a minimum so your breast feeding routine is not interrupted. And keep in mind that milk supply is hindered by giving supplements or delaying feedings by using pacifiers.

For nursing moms experiencing breast fullness, it is best to avoid long intervals over three hours between daytime feedings. Regular feedings will reduce fullness but if you are uncomfortable apply warm compresses or use breast massage prior to feeding and apply cool compresses to reduce swelling for about 20 minutes after each feeding. Gel packs work well, just don't apply ldirectly to the nipple or areola

Nipple care can help reduce soreness and improve breastfeeding. Remember that improper positioning at the breast is the major cause of nipple soreness. With clean hands use some express breast milk on the nipple and around the areola after feeding. Breast milk has been shown to promote healing and suppleness.

Avoid using creams soap or vitamin E. The only recommended topical preparation is a purified form of lanolin. These are called lansinoh or purulent.

How do I know if my baby is getting enough breast milk?

There's no way to measure. You look for cues from the baby the baby should seem content after nursing. There should be at least 6 wet diapers and a minimum of 3 bowel movements in 24 hours by the time your newborn has reached 6 days old also.

After nursing, your breast should feel soft after feeding once your milk has come in. If not, contact your lactation consultant and discuss your concerns.

What do I do if my baby isn't latching on properly?

As you know, a proper latch on is crucial for breastfeeding. Remember that you may need to attempt the latch on as many as 10 to 20 times before being successful. Do your best not to become frustrated. Try to reposition the baby, making sure that the baby is positioned tummy to tummy and that the baby is on level with your breasts. If you need to break the seal, stick a clean finger between the baby's mouth and your breast. If you continue to have trouble, contact your lactation consultant for assistance.

What should I do when my baby falls asleep during breastfeeding?

Many babies do fall asleep especially when they are very young. If it happens occasionally, it should not be a problem, but if the baby falls asleep often and you feel the baby is not nursing enough, try to keep the baby awake by rubbing or massaging the baby. You can try changing positions or burping the baby or having the baby and only a diaper. Skin to skin as you nurse. Sometimes talking to your baby or blowing on the baby's face will help.