Babies need lots of time at the breast to establish breastfeeding.
Did you know that it is commonly recommended that your try breastfeeding for 12 weeks before you know it is established. Did you know that is over 400 feeds before you can say you don’t like it or it doesn’t work for you? Do you think if you and your partner had of this information before the baby arrives it would improve your expectations of infant feeding? Breast feeding requires a healthy mother and baby. The baby needs to be able to suck the milk out of the breast in order for the mum to make more milk. Nature has created a wonderful example of supply and demand. Usually your body can make enough milk if you can spend time getting milk out of your breasts to enable you to make more.
Prepare to Breastfeed
There are lots of people to help you if you are keen to breastfeed. Did you know a wonderful gift for expectant mothers at their baby shower is an annual subscription to the ABA . It is the gift that keeps on giving! Women have access to breastfeeding seminars in small groups with real women. The ABA helps improve your expectations and dispel common myths around breastfeeding. Women with babies less than 12 weeks of age demonstrate their breastfeeding and feeding stories. It is helpful if your partner and others close to you are aware of your intention to breastfeed.
Health Professionals who can help
Your midwife is the first person to ask about infant feeding once your baby is born. If feeding is difficult or you are hearing too many opinions about feeding, consult a lactation consultant . You may choose to consult an osteopath if you are having issues with pain in your back, breasts or positioning for feeding. You may choose to consult an osteopath if your baby has trouble sucking, attaching or positioning for feeding.
Have a goal in mind for your feeding
Perhaps you want to try breastfeeding for 12 weeks before you introduce other methods like formula. Perhaps you are aware that the WHO (World Health Organization) suggests breastfeeding is important into the second year of an infant’s life.
Breastfeeding is not the only way.
Some infant’s are sensitive or even allergic to breast milk. Some women choose not to breastfeed. Some women are unable or restricted due to health issues such as breast removal or reduction surgery. Some women want to use bottles so they express their breast milk. Some women want to mix feed and use some formula.