Breastmilk is the best food for your baby. Ask any health professional, and they will respond that the healthiest way to feed an infant is to breastfeed her. Studies show that breastfeeding exclusively for at least three months may help prevent gastroenteritis in babies. If you do so for at least four months, you may be able to lower your baby's risk of respiratory illness and catching ear infections.
Breastmilk is a complete food source; it contains all the nutrients your baby needs - at least 400 of them - including hormones and disease-fighting compounds absent in infant milk formula. Remarkably, its nutritional make-up even adjusts to your baby's needs as she grows and develops. And apart from the brain-building, infection-fighting benefits of mother's milk, which no formula can duplicate, breastfeeding can help to build a special bond between you and your baby. When you breastfeed, your child thrives on the skin-to-skin contact, the cuddling and the holding. You will, too.
Preparing for breastfeeding
AdvertisementYou can't really prepare your nipples for the experience of breastfeeding, but you can, and should, prepare your mind. It helps to learn as much about breastfeeding as you can before your baby is born. Dads should learn as much as possible, too, so they can support and encourage their breastfeeding wives.
How to breastfeed?
Since feeds can take anything from seven to 40 minutes, pick a comfortable place for breastfeeding. Atmosphere is very important, especially in the early days of breastfeeding when you're still trying to get the hang of it. If you are easily distracted and disrupted by noise, find somewhere quiet. If you are easily bored, you may want to feed in front of the television, but only if breastfeeding is going well for you and your baby. Try different spots until you find what works for you.
Hold your baby in a position that won't leave your arms and back sore. Add support around you with plenty of cushions. Many women find the cradle position works well, although it really depends on what is most comfortable for you. Get yourself and your baby in a relaxed position before you start feeding. Pay attention to how your breasts feel when your baby latches on. She should take in a big mouthful of breast tissue. If latching on hurts, break the suction - by inserting your little finger between your baby's gums and your nipple - and try again. Once your baby latches on properly, she will be able to do the rest.
Problems you may encounter ....
Although women have breastfed their babies for centuries, it isn't always easy. Many women face difficulties in the early days. In the first six weeks, as your milk supply adjusts and your baby learns how to breastfeed, you may suffer from:
- Engorgement: overfull breasts;
- Mastitis: an inflammation of the breast;
- Sore nipples.
Some women adjust to breastfeeding easily, encountering no major hurdles. But many new mothers find it hard to learn - so if you're feeling discouraged, remember that you're not the only one. If you feel like giving up (or just want professional advice), contact a breastfeeding counsellor (most hospitals have them). You could also contact Ibu Family Resource Group, a volunteer organisation which hosts breastfeeding support groups in their Klang Valley HQ. The organisation may also be able to recommend groups in other parts of the country. Our Breastfeeding A-Z directory also offers more resources.
Also, talk to your doctor about any health concerns that may impede successful breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding takes practice. Give yourself as much time as you need to get it down to a fine art. Take it a day, a week or even just a feed at a time. If you're having a bad feeding day, tell yourself that tomorrow will be better. And keep in mind that any problems you are having are likely to be temporary. By the time of your six-week check, you'll probably be breastfeeding without giving it a second thought. If not, don't hesitate to ask for support.
Breastfeeding in public
Although you may feel shy about breastfeeding in front of other people, it is becoming an increasingly common sight in urban Malaysia. Besides, you can't be expected to run home every time your baby needs to eat. Some tops are designed to allow you to breastfeed discreetly. Avoid shirts that you have to unbutton as they will make you feel very exposed - stretchy tops you can pull up work well. Draping a scarf, selendang or thin cloth blanket over your shoulder and chest as your baby feeds also helps you feed more discreetly in public (make sure your child is still able to breathe easily).
Most of the larger shopping centres built or renovated within the last five years have mother and baby rooms where you can sit comfortably and feed alongside others. Even if you don't have access to such facilities, most establishments will accommodate a nursing mother and hungry baby. Go ahead and ask for a discreet room or corner when you want to feed your baby. Soon, when breastfeeding becomes more familiar, you won't think twice about feeding your baby in public.
On the other hand, you may want to consider the fact that the Malaysian lifestyle can present some unique challenges to breastfeeding in public. For instance, if you are out at the hawker squares or 24-hour mamak stalls (never mind facilities, where can I find a clean toilet?!), it may be better to give your hungry baby a quick feed in your car (doors locked and engine running so you can run the air-con). Complete the feed once you are home.
What you need to buy
You will need to buy at least two breastfeeding bras. These provide the extra support that your larger-than-usual breasts need. They come with hooks or zips that you can easily undo when you need to feed. Ensure that they are properly fitted and that any flaps open completely. If only a small part of the breast is exposed, the bra may push against you and cause blocked ducts. You may want to wait until after you give birth to make this purchase, to make sure you get a bra that fits perfectly. Note that good quality maternity, breastfeeding or nursing bras are not fitted with underwires as the hard wires can cause blocked ducts.
Some mothers find that their breasts have a tendency to leak when they're lactating. Another baby's cry or the sight of an infant can stimulate milk flow, sometimes at inopportune moments. Make sure you have a good supply of breast pads. You can stock up on washable pads, or buy disposable ones.
Can I breastfeed after I go back to work?
Yes. Going back to work doesn't have to mean the end of breastfeeding. In fact, mothers who work outside the home are often able to feed their babies for as long as they want. You may want to express milk at work or breastfeed only when you are with your baby. Both are possible.
Tiada ulasan:
Catat Ulasan