Tips for breastfeeding

Here is a list of steps you can take to make the most of breastfeeding:

• Make sure the baby is comfortable and attached to the breast properly; this will ensure they feed properly and reduce the risk of them getting colic
• Try to breastfeed exclusively rather than using a mixture of formula and breast milk; the breast works on a demand and supply basis so if you start giving your baby less milk, your supply will decrease.
• Try to avoid giving your baby a dummy while you are breastfeeding; dummies may make it more difficult for the baby to attach the nipple and they may cause babies not to feed properly.
• Don’t go it alone or panic if you are having problems; ask your midwife or health visitor for help, contact the breastfeeding help line or ask a friend or relative for advice. It is normal for it to take a while to get used to breastfeeding, not everyone magically gets the hang of it straight away so don’t feel like you’re letting your baby down if you don’t master the art of feeding straight away.

How long should I breastfeed for?

People have different opinions on this question and some people would suggest breastfeeding babies for much longer than others. The NHS recommends exclusive breastfeeding (that is feeding the baby breast milk only) for the first six months and then starting the weaning process. From six months, you can start to introduce your baby to solid foods; breast milk alone will not provide them with all the nutrients, vitamins and minerals they need; at this point you can continue to breastfeed as well as giving the baby solid food or you may choose to use formula milk. From the age of twelve months, babies can start to drink cow’s milk; it is up to you when you stop breastfeeding and some mothers breastfeed their children for many years.

Breastfeeding:

• Breastfeeding
• Breast milk against formula milk
• How to breastfeed
• How do I know that my baby is feeding properly?
• Tips for breastfeeding
• Expressing and breast pumps
• Breastfeeding and Jaundice
• Extended Breastfeeding
• Foods to avoid when breastfeeding
• Breastfeeding myths

• Breastfeeding after a caesarean
• Breastfeeding and birth control
• Baby refusing to breastfeed
• Factors that may have an effect on breastfeeding
• Lactation Consultant
• Breastfeeding and Medication
• Breastfeeding Premature Babies
• Nursing bras
• Formula milk
• Breastfeeding when ill
• Breastfeeding in public
• Oversupply of breast milk