What to Expect When You are Expecting…to Breastfeed Your Baby

Mothers want to give their children the best of everything. Without question, the best method of feeding infants is the milk that comes along with the baby; breast milk. Not only that, but it is absolutely free, comes in attractive reusable containers, and not only is it best for baby, it is also good for mom and the family as a whole.

Breast milk has everything your baby needs to be strong and healthy, and babies who are breastfed have fewer illnesses. Mother’s milk is always fresh and immediately ready; it saves time and money, and aids in getting mom back in shape. As your baby grows, your milk will specialize and change for your particular baby at each stage by increasing in quantity and changing in content to meet your growing baby’s needs. The more your baby nurses, the more milk your body makes. Conversely, the less your baby nurses (for example substituting formula feedings), the more your body will suppress the production of milk.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that all infants be exclusively breastfed from birth to six months of age, and following this with a gradual introduction of other forms of nutrition and continued breastfeeding into the second year and beyond. In the United States approximately 70% of women initiate breastfeeding, but by six months of age, less than 40% of infants receive any breast milk at all.

The following practices help to insure the successful initiation and continuation of this important and healthy gift for your baby:
• Before your baby arrives arm yourself with knowledge about breastfeeding; attend classes or breastfeeding support groups, read, talk to women who have successfully breastfed their babies, and discuss your desire to breast feed with your midwife or obstetrition.
• Nurse early and often—put the baby to the breast within one half hour of birth. Keep baby close by rooming in and maintaining skin to skin contact as much as possible.
• If you experience difficulties or just have concerns or questions, ask the nursing staff for help and/or a lactation consultation visit.
• If you have to be separated from your infant request support and help to initiate and maintain your milk supply. Request a lactation consultation and a breast pump as soon as possible if your provider has not ordered this for you.
• Give your baby no other food or drink other than breast milk unless medically indicated.
• Allow the baby to nurse on demand. Watch the baby, not the clock for cues that he is satisfied and ready to end nursing sessions.
• Give no artificial nipples or pacifiers.
• Continue to seek encouragement and support for breastfeeding after you are discharged home from the hospital. Call your health care provider, lactation consultant and breastfeeding support and resource groups to maintain the good start you have initiated for your baby.

Remember, your breast milk gives your baby the very best start in life, so breastfeed for a full six months before initiating other foods. Only YOU can give your baby this gift and it is worth it!

- Gloria Glidewell, CNM, MS