Breast Feeding

Breastfeeding should be initiated within the first 30 minutes of birth to ensure that the baby suckles colostrum, (the thick yellowish foremilk), which is good for the baby because it provides immunity to the baby and also prevents postpartum bleeding.

WHY BREASTFEEDING IS IMPORTANT

Advantages to infant

  • Prevents hypothermia (low body temperature)
  • Supports growth and survival through strengthened maternal-infant bonding
  • Lower occurrences of infections (e.g. gastrointestinal, respiratory)
  • Decreased duration and intensity of illnesses
  • Breast milk is easy to digest
  • Enhances brain development thus infants tend to be more intelligent
  • Lower occurrences of allergy
  • Lower occurrences of infant abandonment
  • Stimulates infant social interaction
  • Fosters a sense of security

Advantages to mother

  • Reduces haemorrhage postpartum
  • Facilitates involution
  • Protects against ovarian and breast cancer
  • Offers contraceptive protection Lactation Amenorrhoea Method (LAM)
  • Enhances maternal-infant bonding
  • Reduces anxiety, stress, depression
  • Convenient form of infant nutrition
  • Economical form of infant nutrition
  • Increases relaxation and interaction with infant

Advantage to the Family

  • Reduces cost because there is no need for feeding equipment and breast milk substitutes.
  • Reduces cost of hospitalization for diarrheal disease and other infections
  • Reduces costs in family planning programs where Lactational Amenorrhea Method is supported for the first six months postpartum
  • Reduces foreign exchange by lessening demands for breast milk substitutes, bottles, associated supplies
  • Reduces cumulative cost from health care sites in providing care for diarrheal disease and infections

Correct positioning
In all cases:

  • The baby’s head, back and buttocks are in a straight line—not twisted
  • The baby’s whole body is supported, not just the head and shoulders
  • The baby’s body is close to the mother’s
  • The baby’s nose is facing the nipple
  • The baby is able to look into the mother’s face

Proper attachment

  • Good attachment ensures that the baby suckles well and the mother produces adequate supply of breast milk.
  • It also prevents sore and cracked nipples. If the mother experiences pain when breastfeeding, she should seek help at the health facility.
  • Effective suckling helps the mother to produce milk and satisfy the baby.
  • After the baby empties one breast offer the other breast to ensure that milk production is stimulated in both breasts

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