Breastfeeding moms can use the following hints to ensure comfortable feeding
1) Begin breastfeeding as early as possible.
The breastfeeding mom should try her best to feed the newborn baby as soon as possible.
The new born baby may take a bit of time to get' the hang of it '. Those around the mother, that is the child's father or other family members and friends should try their best to assist, especially if it is a new mother . Immediate Breastfeeding of the infant enhances milk production and ensures the baby obtains
colostrum, which is rich in nutrients and antibodies.
2. Remember "Baby is Boss" hence the baby should be fed when she/he asks.
New mothers may make the mistake of trying to follow a rigid feeding program for the baby . This maybe due to the parents busy schedules. However this maybe counterproductive for healthy growth of the infant. The babies biological systems are not as tolerant as that of an adult. When the baby need to be fed, then they must be fed. The baby is boss. The mother must be sensitive to the 'tell, tell' signs of the baby being hungry and in need of food .
One of the signs that the baby needs to be feed is when he/she is unsettled and seems to be fretting , sort of rooting for something.This would be a clear indicator for the mother to feed the child. After breastfeeding the caregiver will notice the child become at ease and mostly like fall asleep.
Another clear indicator is when the infant begins sucking on fingers or hands. That is an alarm to the mother that baby needs to be fed.
In addition the baby will try to 'catch' the attention of the mother by being fussy through crying for no apparent reason or making movements that indicate uneasiness . This indicators may point to other challenges the baby maybe experiencing, however the mother should always start by trying to breastfeed the baby, then check on other issues that maybe making the baby uncomfortable.In conclusion moms are advised to have a more flexible breastfeeding programme for their babies instead of a strict schedule.
As a rule mothers can plan a flexible breastfeeding programme after every 2 or 3 hours depending with the specific needs of their infant.
3. The baby should cling to the mother's breast correctly
This hint may seem obvious, but is key for the baby to get the most out of every breastfeeding session and also for the mother to be comfortable as she shares this very critical moment with her child. Remember breastfeeding is more than just feeding the infant, it is also a time for the mother and child to bond emotionally. This bonding promotes the wellbeing of both the child and mother.
Experts advice that the infant's mouth should properly cover the lactating mother's nipple.A good part of the areola (the circular pigmented area on the breast surrounding the nipple)should also be in the baby's mouth .
Indicators that your baby is comfortably breastfeeding include the mouth of the infant widely open and his/her lips turned outward and graciously sucking the mother's breast.