Breastfeeding A Baby

Breastfeeding Your Baby..

Everyone tells you that breastfeeding is best - but why?

• It contains all the nutrients baby will need.
• Breast milk contains antibodies which help baby to fight infections.
• It is more digestible, so baby is less likely to suffer from diarrhea or other stomach upsets.

Breastfeeding is good for mom too.

• It burns off about 500 calories a day by using your body's fat which was put on to help you breastfeed.
• Breastfeeding triggers the retraction of the womb.

It's also free! When you think of how much diapers are going to cost, don't turn down a freebie!

How Do I Do It?

Your baby is born with a 'sucking reflex' which is especially strong in the first few minutes of life.

Problems

• Engorgement - Most common 3 or 4 days after

  birth. Your breasts overfill with milk, making them feel heavy and hard. Your milk production will probably settle down after a few days; try expressing a little milk before feeds.

• Blocked duct - maybe caused by engorgement; try offering the affected breast first when baby's sucking is strongest - this may clear the blockage. Keep your nipples clean and wear a well-fitting bra.
• Sore nipple - Can be caused by baby incorrectly latching on. Try rubbing milk on the nipple after a feed.

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Author: Tony Luck who runs a site with advice for moms-to-be and new moms. Included is the fascinating Chinese Pregnancy Calendar which supposedly tells you whether the baby you're expecting will be a boy or girl, and a Conception Chart to tell you when baby is expected.