Breastfeeding E-guide For Mothers

Milking-ly Good

Mothers are less likely to develop illnesses Research has proven that breastfeeding mothers are less likely to develop osteoporosis and have a lower risk of breast, uterine and ovarian cancer.

Better immunity for babies Breastmilk is designed to feed, nourish and protect the baby. It contains antibodies, vitamins and nutrients to prevent early childhood infections and illness. Reports have also shown that breastfed babies resist diseases like cancer and diabetes later on in their lives.

Breast Care 101

Nipple soreness and pain

Is there pain and swelling around your nipples? This usually happens due to hormonal changes, skin diseases, breast infections, and infant positioning.

SOLUTION

�Ensure your baby is positioned or latched onto your breast correctly �Do not use creams, devices, ointments or other medications without consulting

Engorgement

Engorgement is a condition characterised by the swelling of the breasts right after you begin breastfeeding your newborn. In most cases, you may feel some pain and experience some swelling. In the worst scenarios, your breasts may turn red, followed by fever. If it is not treated, the mother’s milk supply might be affected and nipples could be damaged.

SOLUTION

�To decrease discomfort, express milk by hand and gently massage your breasts from time to time �To feel more comfortable, apply gel packs or a cold towel �Feed your baby regularly to extract your milk frequently

Ready, Set, Latch

STEP #1: Start with confidence

At least a month before your due date, start to read up on breastfeeding. Arm yourself with knowledge and know what to look out for. Feeling confident is a big first step.

STEP #2: Hubby’s gotta be on board

Having a husband who fully supports your decision to breastfeed will go a long way especially when the going gets rough and you feel like giving up.

STEP #3: Mind over matter

Motherhood builds character. There’s an inner strength and resolve that you’ll need to tap into as you become a mum – and not just where breastfeeding is concerned. Your first few days after labour will pass by in a daze of sorts.

STEP #4: Practice

The best way to feel confident about bringing baby out is to have a feel of the experience. If you are planning to use a sling or carrier, put baby in it and walk around the house or the neighbourhood. Give yourself at least a week to practice breastfeeding with a nursing cover if you hope to nurse your baby in public.

Dos and Don’ts of Breastfeeding

#Do breastfeed for a full 6 months A baby who is breastfeeding well does not need additional supplements before 6 months unless for health reasons. If your baby is gaining weight, your breastmilk is sufficient for the first 6 months. Thereafter, babies can start taking solid food, with continued breastfeeding for up to 2 years of age or beyond.

#Don't assume all doctors know you are breastfeeding Do inform your doctor that you are breastfeeding should you require any medications. It can be easy to assume this when you have been breastfeeding for a longer period, or if you are visiting different doctors or buying drugs over the counter. Some medications enter the milk and cause contraindications to breastfeeding. Some clinics may be unsure and just recommend the mother to stop breastfeeding (just in case) until recovery. In most situations, doctors are able to check against resources and prescribe alternative medications. Most medications also come with prescription leaflets to check if it is suitable for pregnant or lactating mothers.

#Do continue to breastfeed during engorgement and sickness Engorgement usually goes away within 1 to 2 days (without any treatment). Besides direct breastfeeding, you may also express your milk to relieve the tension in the nipple and store the milk for subsequent use. Expressing your milk not only stimulates milk production but also relieves blocked ducts. With some exceptions, a mother who is ill should still be able to breastfeed. Continued breastfeeding will protect your baby from infection and less likely to fall sick. With a few exceptions, breastmilk is ideal for a baby’s gut infection e.g. diarrhoea and vomiting. Each conditions are unique, so do check with your paediatrician when in doubt.

#Don't be discouraged in the first few days of breastfeeding The first milk is dense and is called colostrum. In the early days only a small quantity may be produced. There is no need to pump it out to see how much you have - this is not a reflection of your ability to breastfeed. Instead of being too concerned about the volume, focus on getting a proper latch so that your baby can feed well. Milk production acts on a demand and supply principle, and with perseverance, the milk production will build up into a stable supply over time.

#Do know where you can get support Most hospitals provide lactation and post-partum care services. There are also online resources and breastfeeding groups, where you can engage and discuss with other mothers. Dr Jack Newman has an extensive online resources which includes articles and videos that you can refer to for additional information.

#Don’t introduce the baby to bottle feeding too early Early introduction of the pacifier or bottle feeding may interfere with breastfeeding. The baby may be confused as the sucking actions differ. Time should be given for good breastfeeding practices (e.g. latching and sucking) to be formed before bottles are introduced. Once the breastfeeding routine has been established, the baby can be adjusted to feeding expressed breastmilk from a bottle. It is recommended to introduce the bottle after 4 to 6 weeks. The frequency can be gradually increased and adjusted when you go back to work.

Nursing On-The-Go

TIP #1 BAG IT

Going out with babies means more things to bring! Go for totes and diaper bags and be prepared to leave home at least with two bags or put all your items in a big diaper bag.

Trick: The “baby” bag or diaper bag has to be large to accommodate all the necessary baby items such as diapers, bottles, accessories and extra clothing. Go for a bag that has compartments for easy storage. Sort your small items in transparent zip-lock plastic bags. This way, it is easier to search for them when the need arises.