Proper breastfeeding technique will
help to ease the mother of unnecessary pains:
Timing
of Feeds
With
the advent of the civilized society of the Western world, many mothers now have
to learn again the natural art of breastfeeding their babies. Perhaps one of the
most vexing questions to new mothers, is how often should their babies be fed.
Ideas have fluctuated over the years from the rigid timetable advocated by Truby
King to complete demand-feeding whenever the baby cries. A compromise between
the two extremes is probably the best approach.
In the early days following the birth, a baby is put to the breast frequently,
about every two hours. But as the days go by, he sleeps longer and longer
between feeds, until he and his mother work out a routine that suits them both.
Usually, this routine settles down to feeding approximately every four
hours—making a total of six feeds in all during the twenty-four hours.
Surroundings and Position for Feeding
Ideally, the room in which a baby is fed should be quiet and warm. The mother
should make herself as comfortable and relaxed as possible. A low armless chair
is ideal. A cushion or pillow to support the elbow of the arm holding the baby
certainly helps to ease any strain and a footstool puts the finishing touch to
comfort.
Nursing Bra
A
nursing bra is highly recommended for breastfeeding and there are several good
ones available. They mainly fall into two types—the type that has a front
opening and the type with a flap over the nipple. Both are satisfactory.
`Rooting' Reflex
When
you pick up your restless hungry baby for his feed, you will feel the milk
rushing into both breasts. As your finger touches baby's cheek, or as his face
brushes your nipple, you will notice that his mouth opens and his face turns
towards the source of the food. This process, known as the 'rooting' reflex, is
present in all mature newborn babies.
Length of Feed
Most
babies are satisfied with approximately ten minutes at each breast, although
there is a good deal of individual variation in this. After ten minutes at the
first breast, the mother should change sides. Sucking at an empty breast can
frustrate a baby and cause sore cracked nipples.
Excess Milk
Some
mothers, who have an excess of milk, may find it helpful to express a little of
the milk before putting their baby to the breast. This will ensure that a baby
does not splutter and choke on a too rapid flow of milk. Remember that in order
to maintain a good supply of milk, the breasts should be completely emptied at
the end of each feed. If you feel that there is still some milk left after your
baby has sucked for ten minutes on each side and appears contented, you should
express the remaining milk by hand as shown by the midwife. The two great
stimuli to the continuation of a good milk supply are complete emptying of the
breasts at each feed, and the baby's sucking.
Changing Breasts
Occasionally, mothers may find it difficult to persuade their babies that it is
time to change to the other breast. By sliding a little finger gently in between
the corner of his mouth and the nipple, the air-tight seal around his lips can
be broken.