Breastfeeding is the normal way of providing young infants with the nutrients they need for healthy growth and development. Virtually all mothers can breastfeed, provided they have accurate information, and the support of their family, the health care system and society at large.
Colostrum, the yellowish, sticky breast milk produced at the end of pregnancy, is recommended by WHO as the perfect food for the newborn, and feeding should be initiated within the first hour after birth.
Exclusive breastfeeding is recommended up to 6 months of age, with continued breastfeeding along with appropriate complementary foods up to two years of age or beyond.
Breast feeding should be started within the first 30-60 minutes of birth.
- The thick yellow initial secretion (Colostrum) should not be discarded as it is rich proteins, vitamin A, prevents the development of allergies, and contains antibodies that protect the baby from infections.
- The newborn should not be given honey, water or any other fluid other than the breast milk
- Baby should be breast fed on demand every 2-3 hours devoting 10-15 minutes to each breast.
- Baby should be properly latched to the breast. Part of the areolar (the black area behind the nipple) should be in his mouth.
- The baby should be exclusively breast feed for at least 6 months
- Breast feeding helps in better mental development of the baby
- It reduces risk of ear infections, chest infections, diabetes and skin rashes
- It helps in strong bonding between mother and child
- It leads to lesser pain and bleeding after delivery
- It helps the mother in losing weight fast.
- Breast feeding protects the mother against breast cancer and ovarian cancer
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