Breastfeeding Do’s & Don’ts

If you are a new mom, chances are you have been flooded with breastfeeding tips. People will watch you, teach you, test you and make you uncomfortable in all possible ways and you may end up feeling more confused than ever.

Here are a few essential points, which should set you on the path to successful breastfeeding:

Do’s

–  Start breastfeeding your baby immediately right after she is born and after you have a nice warm bath that improves the milk flow. Never delay your baby’s feeding time so try to feed him 8-10 times in a 24-hour period, even if the flow of the breastmilk appears to be slow or completely blocked, keep on trying.

– Make sure you keep yourself clean, it is advisable to wash your hands and wipe the breast region with a damp cloth before and after each breast feeding session, also if you use breastfeeding accessories such as breast pump and breast shields, etc. that needs to be properly sterilized after use.

– Always change the diaper before starting the feed. Studies have revealed that newborn babies take the feed better when they are wearing a clean and dry diaper.

–  Make sure you drink a glass of water, juice or any healthy hydrating fluid before breastfeeding, and take care of your diet, make sure you do not eat anything that causes gas or constipation in your baby’s stomach.

– Express and freeze breastmilk if you feel that you need to go somewhere without your baby

Don’ts

– Don’t give glucose /sugar/plain water or honey before the first breastfeed.

– Don’t start breastfeeding when you are feeling angry or depressed, your mood plays an important role in this process. Even your baby can sense your low mood, and this can directly impact your milk flow.

– Don’t give up no matter how hard you find newborn breastfeeding. Give your baby and yourself time to understand each other. Don’t stuff your breast into the baby’s mouth, but rather instead bring your baby to you.

-Don’t believe that breastfeeding is supposed to hurt and that sore nipples are the norm. If the baby is latched on to the breast properly breastfeeding should not hurt. In case you are experiencing sore nipples, talk to your doctor and ask him/ her about the right ointment for your nipples, and meanwhile use a breast-shield.

– Do not leave breast milk to thaw at room temperature, and do not try to heat it in a microwave or on the stove.

– Don’t take any medications without talking to your doctor.