There are a number of things that you can do to keep your baby healthy from the moment they are born, and one of the most effective ones is breastfeeding.
Breast milk contains the right balance of nutrients for your baby. It is easier for your baby to digest breast milk than commercial formula. Not only that, but antibodies in breast milk boost the immune system of the baby and it also helps you lose weight after the baby is born.
Breast Feeding is challenging, which is why we are going to list down some tips that will help you have successful breastfeeding.
5 Tips For Breastfeeding Success
1. Stay with your baby after birth
The first thing that you need to do is keep your baby with you after birth. This is important because it will promote a feeling of closeness and it will spark a strong hormonal response, which is highly linked with breastfeeding success.
2. Don’t rush it
Breastfeeding is a skill that you and your baby would have to learn, which is why doctors from all over the world suggest mothers be calm.
Remember, your baby would learn how to suck the milk from you, and just like anything new, it will take time and some patience. Try to relax for you and your baby. In case the baby is not responding well, try to stop and continue after some time.
3. Try to keep the baby with you inside your room
When in the hospital or at home, you want to keep your baby in the room with you, considering that it offers a lot of benefits, which include reducing the risk of sudden infant death.
Keeping the baby with you inside your room promotes breastfeeding and will help you out a lot in recognizing that your baby is hungry, needs some loving, or when they are tired. It will also help you out a lot in knowing when your baby is ready for breastfeeding.
4. Breastmilk is only good for 6 months
According to the WHO (World Health Organization), babies should only breastfeed for 6 months. After that, mothers should introduce appropriate foods and continue mild breastfeeding up to 2 years old. Most of the time, it is up to you and your baby when to stop this.
5. Take care of your nipples
It is important for mothers to take care of their nipples.
After breastfeeding, mothers should let the milk dry naturally on their nipples. The milk is going to soothe your nipples, in case you are not comfortable with this one, gently pat your nipple until it dries. Also, try to use bra pads if you are frequently experiencing breast leeks.
In case your nipples are dry or are cracked, try lanolin after each feeding. Purified lanolin can soothe cracked nipples and will help out a lot in retaining moisture.
