New Parent News

Breastfeeding Success

By Stephanie Sosnowski for the Times Herald Record on August 15, 2007

The best time to consider whether you will breastfeed your baby is while you are still pregnant, not when you are in labor!

The research is clear -

HUMAN MILK IS THE PERFECT FOOD FOR HUMAN BABIES

Formula feeding will increase the risk of ear infections, asthma and other allergies (something to consider if there is a family history of allergies). The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends only breastmilk for the first six months of baby’s life.

When you take your hospital tour, find out what their policy is for the first hour after birth. Will they allow you to hold your baby, skin-to-skin, within the first 30 minutes, barring any medical emergency? This practice actually helps both mom and baby to better initiate milk production. Some studies have also shown that if baby is given formula in this early period, first time mothers may not think that they are producing milk, therefore, they continue with formula feeding.  This first feed that baby gets from the breast is called colostrum, and provides baby with all the right nutrients for baby’s delicate digestive system and also gives the baby the very important immune protective factors, not available in formula, no matter which brand you choose!

Mothers need to remember that it can take up to 72 hours (3 days) to experience normal breast-fullness. Moms need to be supported by partners, family and healthcare providers at this critical time, and encouraged to continue breastfeeding.

Once mom is home from the hospital, the support and encouragement that she gets from her family is critical for successful breastfeeding. Dads must understand that it is the mom’s job to feed the baby, and there are plenty of other very important jobs for him, like rocking, bathing, reading, as you can never start too early, to baby.  Babies enjoy being held by dads – their lower voices and different feel of their bodies can help to comfort and soothe a fussy baby. Newborns need to be fed as many as 10 times in a 24 hour period, which means that mom is probably not getting much rest, and will need lots of help with household chores and taking care of other children.

With a little practice, breastfeeding can be done very discreetly, but keep in mind that according to New York State Law, you have the right to breastfeed your baby anywhere that you are legally allowed to be. Pay attention to your baby’s feeding cues (hands to his mouth, smacking his lips, turning his head to the side) and you’ll be able to breastfeed him before he starts crying, making for a more pleasant experience for you, the baby, and everyone around you!

According to the New York State Department of Health’s Best Practices for Breastfeeding, all moms leaving the hospital should be given resource information for community breastfeeding support.  For a copy of this list, or other information about healthy pregnancy, breastfeeding, or Child Health Plus, visit www.misn-ny.org, or call MISN at 1-800-453-4666.

Stephanie Sosnowski is the Deputy Director of Maternal-Infant Services Network (MISN) of Orange, Sullivan and Ulster Counties, a not-for-profit organization that coordinates health and human services for pregnant women and children.

For More Information on FREE or LOW COST Health Insurance, Prenatal Care or Breastfeeding Support Call 1-800-453-4666.