Breast feeding practices

The decision to breastfeed your child is one that only you as a mother can make. Several WHO and UNICEF guidelines recommend exclusively breastfeeding a child for the first six months of their life, beginning within the first hour of birth.

Benefits of breastfeeding for the baby

Nursing, or breastfeeding, is one of the best ways to protect a child’s health. A newborn receives the most nourishment from breastmilk. In addition to being safe and hygienic, your breastmilk contains antibodies that provide protection against different ailments. Breastmilk supplies all of the energy and nutrients that an infant need in the first few months of life and can continue to provide half or more of a child’s nutritional needs in the second half of the first year.

How often should you breastfeed?

Your feeding schedule should depend on whether your infant prefers frequent small meals or longer feedings. The frequency will increase or decrease as your child grows and their habits change. In general, newborns need to be fed every two to three hours. In the first two months of a baby’s life, most babies feed every three to four hours, and by the sixth month, most babies feed every four to five hours.

Other feeding tips

• Develop routine and consistency with feedings
• Feed your baby on time
• Know it is okay to ask for help
• Consider vitamin D supplements
• Trust your instincts
• Use formula if breastfeeding is not possible.

If you struggle with breastfeeding, there may be multiple factors at play. An assessment by your paediatrician and a lactation consultant can assist with any breastfeeding issues that you’re having. If you choose to formula feed, then choosing the right feed and a discussion with your paediatrician can assist with choosing the right one for your child.