Top Tips for Breastfeeding Seek help to ensure position and attachment is correct. Breastfeeding is a learnt skill for you and your baby, don’t feel embarrassed to ask for help and guidance. This will prevent problems. Breastfeed exclusively, giving other food and drinks will reduce your milk supply Respond to your baby for night feeds, night feeds are essential to maintain your milk supply. If you give your baby less mum’s milk, it will not protect your baby against illness as effectively Try not to give dummies/pacifiers before breast feeding is established. This can lead to nipple confusion. Also your baby will be less likely to feed when they need to, so won’t take in as much milk. Try not to compare your baby with a formula fed baby; they will feed very differently. You can over feed a breastfed baby! So it’s fine to offer the breast to comfort your baby. Although you cannot see what your baby is getting, you can tell they are getting enough milk if they are settled following the feeds and have sufficient wet and dirty diapers. Don’t be scared to ask for help. It can take a while to become confident. Ask your paediatrician or speak to a midwife at the hospital. How Dads can help with Breastfeeding Common Breastfeeding Challenges Here are some common challenges that breastfeeding mothers sometimes encounter and the solutions to minimize discomfort. Sore Nipples Vigorous sucking in the early days or improper latching on may cause sore or cracked nipples. Try a new feeding position Air-dry your nipples after feeding Rub your own milk around your nipples Wear only cotton clothing There are over the counter creams available e.g. Lanolin that can be used to help protect and repair, and are safe for baby
Top Tips for Breastfeeding Seek help to ensure position and attachment is correct. Breastfeeding is a learnt skill for you and your baby, don’t feel embarrassed to ask for help and guidance. This will prevent problems. Breastfeed exclusively, giving other food and drinks will reduce your milk supply Respond to your baby for night feeds, night feeds are essential to maintain your milk supply. If you give your baby less mum’s milk, it will not protect your baby against illness as effectively Try not to give dummies/pacifiers before breast feeding is established. This can lead to nipple confusion. Also your baby will be less likely to feed when they need to, so won’t take in as much milk. Try not to compare your baby with a formula fed baby; they will feed very differently. You can over feed a breastfed baby! So it’s fine to offer the breast to comfort your baby. Although you cannot see what your baby is getting, you can tell they are getting enough milk if they are settled following the feeds and have sufficient wet and dirty diapers. Don’t be scared to ask for help. It can take a while to become confident. Ask your paediatrician or speak to a midwife at the hospital. How Dads can help with Breastfeeding Common Breastfeeding Challenges Here are some common challenges that breastfeeding mothers sometimes encounter and the solutions to minimize discomfort. Sore Nipples Vigorous sucking in the early days or improper latching on may cause sore or cracked nipples. Try a new feeding position Air-dry your nipples after feeding Rub your own milk around your nipples Wear only cotton clothing There are over the counter creams available e.g. Lanolin that can be used to help protect and repair, and are safe for baby
BVH-breastfeeding-booklet.docx