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Keys to successful breast feeding

  • Feed as soon as possible after birth.
    Breast milk not only contains all the nutrients a baby needs for the first months, it also includes substances that protect your baby against illnesses.
  • Allow infant to feed as often and as long as he or she desires.
    Offer your breast at least every 2–3 hours, about 8–12 feedings in 24 hours.
  • Breastfeed at least 8 times a day.
    Breastfeeding at least 8 times a day will decrease the chance of excess weight loss and jaundice in your newborn.
  • Time feedings from the beginning of one feeding to the beginning of the next.
  • Avoid introducing bottles for at least 4–6 weeks.
    Babies use their whole mouth when sucking at the breast. Some babies get confused if given both the breast and bottle since getting milk from the bottle is so much easier than from the breast.
  • Feed at least 15 minutes or more at the first breast every feeding.
    Letdown may take up to 5 minutes or more to occur from the time the infant starts sucking, so you should feed at least 15 minutes or more at the first breast every feeding. Feeding may take 30–40 minutes each time. The average for each breastfeeding session varies from 20–60 minutes.

Your Breastfeeding Plan

Having a plan in place ahead of time will help to lessen stress and aid in successful breastfeeding, from pregnancy to returning home with your baby.

Here's what you can do while you are pregnant to prepare yourself:

  • Make a list of your support people (partner, husband, mother, sister, aunt, friend, etc.)
  • Determine where you will learn about breastfeeding (WIC, childbirth class, nurse educator, family member, etc.)

The following is a list of requests and/or questions you might have for those who will be helping with your delivery:

I want to put my baby to my breast right after birth.
If I have a c-section, I want to put my baby to my breast as soon as possible.
I want help getting my baby to latch on.
I want to be in the same hospital room as my baby.
I don't want my baby to have any formula.
I want to nurse my baby when she/he wants to nurse.
If we have to be separated, I want someone to bring my baby to me for breastfeeding.
If my baby isn't able to nurse for some medical reason, I want to be shown how to pump breast milk until the baby is ready.
I don't want my baby to have a pacifier.

Nutrition

The breastfeeding woman needs a well-balanced diet with 200 more calories per day than a pregnant woman. It is recommended that you continue taking your prenatal vitamins and iron.

Protein

Suggested daily intake: 80–100 grams.

Sources: meat, chicken, seafood, milk, milk products such as yogurt and cottage cheese, eggs, and legumes such as dried beans and peas. Some protein should be included with each meal and at least one snack time.

Vitamins

The B (anti-fatigue) vitamins are especially important.

Sources: whole-grain products such as breads and cereals, deep green vegetables, nuts, and raw fruits such as oranges and bananas.

Iron

Suggested daily intake: 18 mg.

Sources: meat, liver, seafood, egg yolk, soybeans, lima beans, dried fruits, and fortified cereals.

Calcium

Suggested daily intake: 1,400 mg.

Sources: milk liquid or powdered, yogurt, cheese, canned fish, some legumes such as beans, and some deep green leafy vegetables.

Liquids

Suggested daily intake: 6 glasses a day; 12 glasses if you have an infection or plugged duct.

Sources: water, milk, fruit and vegetable juices, bouillon, soup, and herb tea. It is not necessary to drink milk to help your milk supply.

Avoid empty-calorie foods such as candy, soft drinks, and excessive fats. Stay away from caffeine in large amounts and cigarettes.