Breastfeeding Q&A
Whether you’re a first-time mom or on baby number 3, it’s okay to still have a lot of questions. Here’s some questions answered on breastfeeding,
What are the benefits of breastfeeding?
Breastfeeding is good for both infants and mothers. Breast milk is the best source of nutrition for most infants. For babies, it helps prevent them from catching infections. For mothers, it decreases their risks of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, breast, and ovarian cancers.
How soon should moms breastfeed after delivery?
This will depend on what your healthcare provider advises after giving birth. In most cases, if mom and baby are both healthy and able, breastfeeding in that first hour can be very helpful to establish the milk supply. In the beginning, you might notice a clear but not milky liquid, this is called colostrum and is extremely beneficial for the baby. It contains antibodies that protect the new-born against diseases such pneumonia, diarrhoea, hypothermia and prevents death due to sepsis.
How often should you breastfeed per day?
Again, this will be advised by your healthcare provider. Attending post-natal classes will help determine how much milk your baby needs as they grow up. In most cases, in the first few weeks, babies should breastfeed a minimum of 8 to 12 times per day. At first, sessions might take up to 45 minutes, but as the baby gets used to it, feedings can last anywhere between 10 to 20 minutes.
Is pain normal during breastfeeding?
When a new mother is struggling to achieve a good latch, there can be some pain from damage to the nipples. This should heal and resolve. Ongoing breastfeeding is not generally painful, if you experience pains or severe discomfort when breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider asap.
How do you know when to switch breasts when feeding?
Commonly, you can switch breasts when the baby’s suckling has slowed down and appears calm, and relaxed and the breast feels empty.
Does drinking water help?
As a nursing mother, you need about 16 cups per day of water, which can come from food, beverages and drinking water, to compensate for the extra water that is used to make milk. One way to help you get the fluids you need is to drink a large glass of water each time you breastfeed your baby. It is always advised to abstain from alcohol while breastfeeding.
Other general tips
Nothing beats good positioning! Get yourself a good couch, chair, or bedroom spot to breastfeed where you can position yourself with pillows to support the baby and your arms. It's also important to receive advice from your healthcare provider about how best to position the breast and nipple to give the baby the best chance of latching and to reduce pain and discomfort for you.
I hope this helped answer some questions you may have. Have any other questions on breastfeeding? Type them below, inbox or DM me.
If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send a Facebook message or a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).
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