Breastfeeding Instructions

Introduction

     This might be your first baby or the first baby you will be breastfeeding, but you already have some experience in feeding or caring for infants. You may have watched a friend or relative nurse their baby watched instructional videos at birthing classes. You are familiar with the human anatomy and know what goes where and why. This instructional hand-out will be a basic refresher for moms of new babies and additional caregivers.

     As you have discovered through reading or from your doctor’s recommendation, breastfeeding is the best choice for providing for the nutritional, immunological, and emotional needs of your baby. Human milk was perfectly designed for the growth and health of human infants, providing just the right balance of vitamins, minerals, and antibodies for proper growth and the development of your baby’s immune system. For these and perhaps other reasons, you have chosen to breastfeed your newborn; so let’s get started!

Newborns and Hunger

     Your baby will let you know when she is hungry. Crying, sucking on her fingers or fists, and responding to your touch with the rooting reflex are often signs that she is ready to eat. The rooting reflex is an action triggered by touching or stroking an infant’s cheek. When this happens she will turn her head with her mouth open toward the side her cheek was touched. While the rooting reflex is present only until about four or five months of age, it can continue in some infants up to around 12 months old (Bennett, 2004).

Fathers and Caregivers

     There may be times when you will be unable to breastfeed due to absence or illness or whatever reason. In this instance someone else will need to feed your baby. The best alternative to breastfeeding is to have your breast milk on hand to be given to your baby in a bottle. This can be done in advance by using a manual or electric breast pump. Your breast milk may be refrigerated for use later the same day, or frozen for use up to 14 days (for optimal nutrition). Go to Kidshealth.org or Le Leche League International for further information on long-term storage of 6 to 12 months.

     If you are unable to prepare breast milk in advance of your absence, use an infant formula as directed by your pediatrician. Fathers, your baby’s siblings, and other caregivers can benefit from being able to feed the baby. Close bonds can be made during this special time of holding the baby and satisfying her need for nourishment.

Preparation for Breastfeeding

     Make sure you are drinking plenty of healthy fluids throughout the day. Water and real fruit juices are best. Try to avoid alcohol, sugary drinks, or too much caffeine. Keep your nipples clean by showering daily or using a soft, clean, damp washcloth to wipe the area at least a couple times a day. If your nipples become sore or cracked, you may use a lanolin ointment, sold at most drugstores, to relieve discomfort and prevent bleeding.

     The ideal condition for breastfeeding is to find a place that is quiet and free from stress; however, as experienced mothers know, this is rarely an option. Regardless of the setting, try to get comfortable with enough room to hold your baby across your lap. Make sure he is at a comfortable angle so he does not have to turn his head too far to the side.

Steps to Breastfeeding

     Using your index and middle fingers in a “V-shape,” place your nipple between them and gently push back the areola (dark skin surrounding the nipple) to keep your breast away from your baby’s nostrils. Your baby will “latch on” with his mouth. You will know he has adequate suction by the pulling he makes and no sound of escaping air. As you relax, your milk will “let down;” meaning it will begin to flow freely into your baby’s mouth.

     Be sure to support your baby’s head in the crook of your arm, supporting the length of his body with your forearm letting his bottom rest on your hand. See that his head and upper body is slightly elevated to prevent him from gagging or having air build up in his tummy. Allow him to drink for at least five minutes before switching him to the opposite breast. It is important to feed with both breasts whenever possible at each feeding so they will produce the same amount of milk and so that one side does not become engorged (over-filled with milk to the point of discomfort).

Suggested Supplies

     To enhance your breastfeeding experience and make it pleasant and rewarding, the following items are good to have:

            A good quality support nursing bra

            Disposable and/or washable breast pads (to keep milk from leaking through clothing)

            A breast pump

            Lanolin breast ointment

            Baby bottles

Conclusion

     Breast milk benefits your baby  because it is easier to digest, is rich in nutrients, contains antibodies that fight disease, reduces risk of food allergies, and is uniquely made to help your baby develop physically and mentally (WomensHealth.gov).

For further information, go to:

Kidshealth.org

llli.org (Le Lechhe League International)

Womenshealth.gov/breastfeeding