Guide To Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding:

Breastfeeding is the suckling of an infant and the natural method of feeding in mammals and humans.Most authorities believe that it is the best way of providing nourishment for a baby as the milk contains all the nutrients required in an easily digestible form, as well as antibodies to protect against infection and allergies.Since breast-feeding is regulated by the baby, over-feeding and early obesity is unlikely, and the milk is always warm, sterile, fresh and available.The fluid produced in the first few days after childbirth is called colostrum, and it is protein-rich, containing antibodies and a natural laxative to stimulate the baby's bowels.Milk production begins 3-5 days after childbirth, and is triggered by hormonal changes.Suckling stimulates the nerve endings in the Areola and the production of Prolactin and Oxytocin hormones from the pituitary gland.Prolactin stimulates the production of milk while oxytocin plays a part in the Let-Down Reflex, in which the muscle fibres surrounding the milk glands contract, moving milk to the milk ducts.Oxytocin also helps the Uterus return to normal size after childbirth.Breast-feeding helps mother lose the extra weight gained during pregnancy but does not appear to have any permanent effect on the size and shape of the breasts and lessens the risk of developing Breast Cancer in later life.Women who have had breast reconstruction surgery with silicone implants and breast augmentation may still be able to breastfeed.Women who have had reduction surgery may not be able to breastfeed if too many mammary ducts ahev been cut.Breastfeeding is not recommended if the mother has active tuberculosis or chickenpox infections as these can be passed on to the baby, as can the AIDS virus.Women taking some antibodies, tranquilizers, hormonal medicine, anti-cancer drugs, radioactive medicines or drinking more than 7 units of alcohol per day should avoid breastfeeding.

During Breast feeding the breasts require special care, with particular attention to washing and drying.Creams and lotions can help prevent soreness and cracked nipplesIt is important that the baby is latched onto the breast correctly.It should have the nipple well back in the mouth with the lips around the areola.The mouth is then on the breast tissue instead of the nipple.The baby sqeezes the nipple against the palate with its tongue, and this draws milk into its mouth.An infant soon acquires this natural skill.Feeding on demand appears to be the best way of nourishment, and the baby should be allowed to feed from both breasts.Breastfeeding may act as a method of contraception as it changes the levels of hormones and prevents ovulation, but it is unreliable, particularly when the baby starts to be weaned.A woman may be ovulating even if menstrual periods are absent.Effectiveness in preventing pregnancy is 60-75%.

Breastfeeding problems generally arise because of excess milk production, sore nipples or an infection.If too much milk is produced, the breasts become engorged.This is eased by feeding or expressing milk by hand or with a pump.Engorged breasts can make it difficult for the baby to latch on properly, and some milk may need to be expressed first.The condition can be eased by bathing the breasts in warm water, applying a hot compress and stroking.Engorgement can occur at any time if the breasts are not emptied of milk, eg., if the baby misses a feed.As mentioned above, breastfeeding occurs because of the stimulation of nerve-endings during suckling, resulting in the let-down reflex.Mnay women suffer from sore or cracked nipples when breast-feeding.This may be caused by incorrect latching-on or by allowing the baby to pull on yhe nipple, especially when it is releasing its hold on the breast.It is best to stop feeding from the affected breast and apply lotion or oil to the nipple, as advised by a doctor.Sore or cracked nipple heal faster when exposed to air.Cracked nipples can lead to infection, but using a breast shield allows the baby to feed, affording protection while healing occurs.The most common breast infection is Mastitis, but a Breast abscess may also form.A blocked milk duct in the nipple is a problem that can result from a bra that is too tight, engorged breasts or from blockage by dried milk.The breast may feel lumpy and tender, with reddened skin.The blockage may be cleared by feeding and massaging the breast above the affected duct, but to lessen the risk of an abscess a doctor's advice should be sought if the condition does not clear.

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