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Breastfeeding - Good for Mom and Baby
Why Breastfeed?
- It is the best nutrition for baby
- It protects babies from ear infections, colds, allergies, diarrhea and constipation.
- It helps babies’ brain and eye development
- Breast milk has everything babies need to grow and be healthy
- Breastfed children are less likely to have diabetes or become overweight
Breastfeeding is good for moms and families
- Helps moms lose weight
- Helps moms relax and feel close to baby
- Saves money (no formula or bottle costs, fewer doctor bills and medication costs, less lost time from work)
What to expect in the first weeks?
How should baby be positioned?
- Bring baby to breast (to avoid a sore back, don’t lean over)
- Baby and mom should be tummy to tummy
- Baby’s mouth should be wide open (like a big yawn) before going to the breast
- Much of the dark area of the breast should be in baby’s mouth
- If breastfeeding hurts, break the suction by gently pressing your finger on the corner of baby’s mouth. After baby opens wide, try putting baby to breast again
- Listen or feel for swallowing
How will you know if baby is getting enough milk?
- Breastfeed at least every 1-1/2 to 3 hours, or 8-12 times in 24 hours, including night feedings. Moms who breastfeed often, make more milk.
- By 3-4 days, baby should have at least 3-5 messy diapers and 6-8 really wet diapers in 24 hours.
- You should hear or feel baby swallowing.
This page was last updated on: 04/13/2011
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