Most new moms want to give breast feeding a try- it has great benefits for you and your baby. For some moms breast feeding can be a little tricky. While in hospital, the staff will help you and often there are classes to attend.
Babies may not be able to talk but they can communicate- look for their cues. Lip smacking, turning to the breast or bottle, opening their mouth all signs for, “I’m hungry! They turn their head away or fall asleep when full.
I breast fed my twins, either both together and separately. I found the first week most difficult, the positioning of the babies, checking they were latched on and just becoming used to breast feeding (milk spurting everywhere). Babies feed a lot as their stomachs are small. Frequent feedings are advised. At times you may feel you are feeding constantly but as your baby grows and their stomach increases, they can take bigger feeds and then sleep longer!
Breastfeeding helps you feel close to your baby emotionally and physically as breast feeding releases the hormones oxytocin and prolactin. This increases calmness making mom and baby happy.
The website Healthychildren.org (through the American Academy of Pediatrics) is useful and has lots of information. One of the benefits of breastfeeding is that breast milk contains antibodies, immune factors, enzymes, and white blood cells- all to protect your baby from infections and diseases.
So, how do you know if your baby is feeding correctly?
Breast milk is convenient - no bottles to prepare. Give it a try. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.
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