Effective Breastfeeding Techniques

Advantages of Breast Milk for Babies

The American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP) advocates exclusive breastfeeding for newborns during the first six months. Beyond six months, breastfeeding can continue alongside complementary foods, with recommendations now suggesting breastfeeding up to the age of two.

Breast milk provides an optimal combination of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants specifically designed for a baby’s needs, and a balanced amount of fats, sugars, proteins, and water crucial for baby’s development.

It is easy to digest, even for underdeveloped stomachs and intestines, and contains antibodies that protect against infections and boost immunity. It also encourages healthy weight gain while adapting to meet the baby’s changing nutritional needs over time. Breast milk also contains soothing compounds for the baby.

Studies have shown that breastfed babies tend to be healthier, have stronger immune system, fewer hospital admissions, reduced need for doctor visits, and a reduced likelihood of experiencing these medical conditions:

• Ear infections
• Respiratory infections (pneumonia, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), whooping cough)
• Asthma
• Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and infant mortality
• Diarrhoea, vomiting, and preterm necrotising enterocolitis (NEC)
• Dental issues (cavities, orthodontic concerns)
• Childhood obesity
• Eczema
• Bacterial meningitis
• Type 2 diabetes later in life
• Childhood leukaemia
• Celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

Even if breast milk is pumped and fed through a bottle, babies still receive these nutritional and health benefits.

Benefits of Breastfeeding for Mothers

Breastfeeding not only benefits babies but also provides several advantages for mothers. Mothers are encouraged to breastfeed for at least one year, as extended breastfeeding offers greater protection for babies against illnesses and long-term health conditions. Similarly, the longer a woman breastfeeds (including all her children), the more her health can benefit.

Breastfeeding can lower the risk of postpartum depression, particularly when mothers feel supported. Long-term benefits for the mother include a reduced risk of developing certain cancers (breast, ovarian, endometrial, thyroid), osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

Common Breastfeeding Challenges

Breastfeeding may present challenges. Common difficulties include sore or cracked nipples, insufficient breast milk supply, breast engorgement, issues with latching, oversupply of milk, blocked milk ducts, thrush, mastitis, and breast abscesses.

Preparing for Breastfeeding Post-Birth

Like any new skill, breastfeeding requires practice and patience. It is beneficial to prepare in advance. Here are a few ways to get ready:

• Speak with your doctor or read trusted books to learn about breastfeeding.
• Seek professional help from a lactation consultant to guide you about breastfeeding.
• Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and prepare for the challenges breastfeeding may bring.
• Involve your spouse in the process and consider ways for them to participate in feeding routines.
• Plan ahead and seek advice from other mothers on how they manage breastfeeding alongside work, especially when it comes to pumping milk.

Steps to Successful Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a skill you and your baby will learn together, and it may take time to get it right. Trying different positions and techniques can help determine what works best. Here are a few steps to guide the process:

1. Get comfortable: Use pillows or cushions to support yourself and keep your shoulders and arms relaxed.
2. Correct alignment: Ensure your baby’s head and body are in a straight line to facilitate easy swallowing.
3. Close contact: Hold your baby close to your body, with their tummy facing yours, and support their head, neck, and back.
4. Encourage latching: Bring your baby to your breast, allowing them to latch themselves. Avoid leaning towards the baby, as this can result in poor attachment.
5. Wide mouthful: Aim for your baby to get a good portion of the areola in their mouth, not just the nipple, for an optimal latch.

Breastfeeding Positions

There are several breastfeeding positions to try, allowing you to find what works best for you and your baby. Here are four commonly used breastfeeding positions:

Signs of Incorrect Latching

Latching involves the baby attaching to the breast to feed. It is important for both mother and baby to learn this skill. A poor latch can lead to sore or cracked nipples, often caused by the baby only latching onto the nipple instead of a larger portion of the areola. This is known as a shallow latch.

To prevent issues, ensure that your baby’s mouth covers a good portion of the areola, not just the nipple. Their mouth should open wide, taking in more of the bottom part of the areola. This encourages proper feeding and helps to prevent nipple pain.

While a poor latch is a common cause of nipple pain, other factors may include vasospasm (blood vessel constriction in response to cold, nipple blebs, dermatitis, and trauma from incorrect use of a breast pump.

Make an Appointment at Gleneagles Hospitals

 If you are experiencing breastfeeding difficulties or are unsure about proper techniques, the team of Consultant Paediatricians and Lactation Consultants at Gleneagles Hospitals is available to provide expert guidance and support. Proper breastfeeding techniques benefit both you and your baby in the long term.

Make an appointment at your nearest Gleneagles Hospital today to ensure you receive the best care for you and your baby’s breastfeeding journey.