Prior to the 1980s everyone all over the world was breastfed. If a mother couldn’t breastfeed she would give her baby to a wet nurse to feed. Then formula surfaced and everyone believed that formula was better than breastmilk. Mothers first used to make formula in their kitchens, then they where manufactured in factories.
There were many factors that contributed to the decline of breastfeeding; unfortunately everyone believed that anything new is better women joining the workforce, formula advertising and billboards. So all mothers, care givers and even a lot of doctors recommended formulas instead of giving their babies their own milk. The result? An increase of infections, obesity and decline in the overall health of our children is clearly seen in the past few decades. Its time to go back to breastfeeding to secure our future.
As a breastfeeding consultant, I urge all pregnant ladies to know as much as possible about breastfeeding. Educate yourself ladies and be prepared to provide the best for your child.
Check out Breast Milk Collection and Storage Guidelines from Medela
The following tips can help you establish breastfeeding in the first few days
1| Tell your doctor that you wish to breastfeed; and insist that no formula should be given to the baby during your hospital stay.
2| Try to deliver in a baby friendly hospital or a hospital that fully supports breastfeeding.
3| When you’re in the labor room tell all the nurses that my baby should be given breast milk only.
4| As soon as your baby is born put your baby skin-to-skin until he has fed the first time.
5| Keep your baby in your hospital room around the clock (rooming-in).
6| Feed your baby whenever he shows feeding cues (at least 8 times a day).
7| Plan for quiet time without visitors during your hospital stay.
8| Do not use pacifiers; offer your breast if your baby is fussy or wants to eat ask for cup feeding.
9| Avoid using supplemental bottle feedings unless your healthcare provider says there is a medical reason.
10| Do not accept samples of formula or other items that might distract from breastfeeding.
11| Let a breastfeeding consultant check that your baby’s latch is correct.
12| Ask for help whenever you need it; there are many hospitals and support groups that provide a hotline for mothers who need help breastfeeding.
If you do most of the above; breastfeeding can be very easy. If you have any trouble, please ask for help. For further information or if you need help; please contact me via my Instagram account; I answer questions through direct messages.
For more on breastfeeding check out Should You Breastfeed With Both Breasts?
