Tips for breastfeeding

Whether a woman is working in the formal, non-formal or home setting, it is necessary that she is empowered in claiming her and her baby’s right to breastfeed.
Making the decision to breastfeed is a personal matter. It’s also one that’s likely to draw strong opinions from friends and family.
You and your baby are unique, and the decision is up to you.
If you have decided to breastfeed, these tips will help make feeding your baby go more smoothly.
Immediately after giving birth, you may want to call loved ones with your news, but that’s when newborns tend to be the most alert and responsive, making it the ideal time to introduce your baby to the breast. After a natural delivery, as long as there are no complications, try to nurse right away. If you’ve had a Cesarean section, you may have to wait until surgery is complete, but try to breastfeed within the first hour.
Once your baby is latched onto your breast and nursing contentedly, you won’t want to interrupt her because your back hurts or your arm is tired.
So take a minute to settle into a comfortable, relaxed position before starting to breastfeed.
When you’re just starting out, sit up straight in an armchair or your hospital bed. Lay a firm pillow across your lap so your baby is level with your breast, and prop up your elbows on the chair arms or pillows.
Also put a pillow behind your back for support, if needed. If you’re sitting in a chair, place your feet on a small stool to bring your baby closer and help prevent back and arm strain.
A good latch is essential for your milk to flow properly. Before you put her to the breast, make sure your baby is on her side so you and she are belly to belly. When she does latch on, her mouth should be opened wide, like a yawn, and take in a good portion of your areola.
In the first weeks, when your baby is more sleepy than hungry, you may have to initiate many feedings, even if it means waking her. If she falls asleep within minutes of latching on, you can try rousing her by changing her nappy or undressing her. But if she seems to be gaining weight appropriately, you don’t need to.
Having the right information will keep you from worrying unnecessarily, and if you do have a problem, you can nip it in the bud.
If you have any concerns about breastfeeding, speak to your doctor or midwife.