Breast Still Best
It is generally acknowledged that breast milk is best for a newborn baby since it contains important antibodies and the optimal balance of nutrients to sustain an infant's rapid growth and development. For you there are the added benefits of saving time (sterilising bottles etc.), saving money (on milk) and the fact that breastfeeding helps you lose some of that baby weight!
However, a Department of Health survey has found that within four to 10 weeks 75% of new mothers have started to wean the baby off the breast and on to infant formula.
This is not surprising since for many women breastfeeding doesn't come as naturally as they might have hoped. Cracked nipples, problems latching on, nipple thrush and mastitis are only a few of the hurdles many women face in these daunting first weeks - but help is at hand.
If you are struggling with breastfeeding, the first thing to do is talk to your GP or health visitor who can put you in touch with a breastfeeding counsellor or clinic. They can provide vital emotional support, advise on latching on technique and positions, tell you what is normal, whether the baby is putting on the right amount of weight, what creams are appropriate, whether nipple shields or expressing could be helpful and provide a general wealth of advice and information.
The most important thing is to feel supported at this time and make educated decisions about what is right for both you and your baby.
If you are considering switching to formula it is also worth seeking advice since partial bottle feeding may have a negative effect on breast feeding and reversing a decision to breast feed is difficult.
Although it is widely acknowledged that breast is best, it is also important not to feel guilty if you do give your child formula. Advances in technology mean that infant formula is now as close to breast milk as possible with many brands now including some of the more complex nutrients found in breast milk such as Long Chain Polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPs), nucleotides and antioxidants such as beta-carotene and selenium.
Frequently asked questions:
| Q | How can I tell if my baby is feeding well? |
| A | There are a few things you can check - your baby should have a large mouthful of breast, baby's chin should be touching your breast, it shouldn't hurt you to feed (after the first few sucks), your baby rhythmically swallows and sucks (their cheeks should stay rounded while they suck) and if you can see any dark skin around your nipple, you should see more of it above your baby's top lip than below their bottom lip. |
| Q | How do I know that he's getting enough milk? |
| A | During the first couple of weeks your baby's weight is not a good indicator, but after that your baby should be putting on weight. Your baby should appear content and satisfied after most feeds and should have at least six wet nappies a day and at least two yellow stools a day. Your breasts and nipples should not be sore - if they are, seek medical advice. |
| Q | I seem to be feeding for ages. Is this right? |
| A | A feed can take up to 40 minutes, but if you have concerns about the time it is taking to satisfy your baby it is worth talking to your health visitor or GP. |
| Q | I find it easier feeding from one breast than the other. Is that ok? |
| A | As with being right or left handed, it is only natural that one side will feel more comfortable but you can help by checking your positioning and maybe using a cushion to prop up a weaker side. It is important to feed (and completely empty) each breast in turn though because although the first milk (also called 'foremilk') quenches thirst, it is the next portion ('hindmilk') that provides energy and satisfies the baby's hunger. If you offer the second breast before the baby has finished they might not be fully satisfied. Alternating also helps ensure a steady milk supply and reduces the chance of your breasts engorging. |
If you have any concerns about either yourself or your baby seek medical advice.
Useful links:
The Breastfeeding Network (0844 412 4664)
www.breastfeedingnetwork.org.uk
La Leche League (0845 120 2918)
www.laleche.org.uk
National Childbirth Trust (0870 444 8708)
www.nct.org.uk/info/Breastfeeding
