Mother's milk is the best way for providing young infants with all nutrients for healthy growth. Breast milk adapts as your baby grows to meet its changing needs, protects it against infections and diseases, and is available whenever the baby needs it. Breastfeeding can build a strong emotional bond between mother and baby, and make your baby feel affection and warmth.
Colostrum is the first milk produced in the breast during the first days after birth. It is thick, golden yellow in color, rich in proteins and antibodies that help to prevent jaundice in infants and keep them healthy. Mother can start nursing within an hour or so after birth. The more you breastfeed, the more your baby's sucking will stimulate your supply and the more milk you'll make.
Breastfeeding also has health benefits for you. It lowers your risk of:
Breastfeeding may take 10 to 25 minutes or until the baby shows signs of fullness (such as slowing down in sucking, spitting out the breast and loosening hands, arms and legs).
1- How do I know my baby is getting enough milk? - When it has 5+ soft bowl motions a day during the first weeks after birth, with soft and yellow faeces. - When its growth is healthy and his weight is commensurate with his height and age. - When he is swallowing with a clear sound. 2- What shall I do if I have breast congestion and sore nipple? Having breast congestion: - Empty your breasts by repeated feedings or breast pump. - Place a warm compress on the congested breast. Prevention of Sore Nipple: - Use moisturizing cream upon approval of your doctor. 3- Does the baby breastfeed at night? - Yes, whenever it shows hunger signs particularly during first days after birth. 4- Can I breastfeed my baby if I have an infection (like influenza…etc.)? - Yes, you can continue to breastfeed, but it is recommended to pump your milk and have a family member to give it to the baby. 5- Can I feed my baby if I take medicines? - If you take some medicines, first ask your doctor if you can continue taking them while breastfeed your baby because some medicines are safe during breastfeeding and do not harm the baby, while others do. 6- What working mother can do to feed her baby? - If she remains at work for a short period, it is preferable to feed her baby before leaving her home and after returning. - If working hours are flexible, she can be late for work for one hour and leave early. - If she will be out for a long period, she may take her baby to a nursery adjacent to her work so she can feed it any time. - If she cannot take her baby with her, be sure to squeeze and empty your breasts either by hands or by using a breast pump, which is available in different types for each mother, to collect the milk to be given to the baby while she is out, and ask the babysitter to feed him. Pumped milk can be kept in a clean and covered cup or sterilized container.
1- How do I know my baby is getting enough milk?
- If working hours are flexible, she can be late for work for one hour and leave early.
- If she will be out for a long period, she may take her baby to a nursery adjacent to her work so she can feed it any time.
- If she cannot take her baby with her, be sure to squeeze and empty your breasts either by hands or by using a breast pump, which is available in different types for each mother, to collect the milk to be given to the baby while she is out, and ask the babysitter to feed him. Pumped milk can be kept in a clean and covered cup or sterilized container.
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