How to Breast-Feed Your Baby Successfully

By eHow Parenting Editor

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Breast-feeding is nature's way to feed an infant - but that doesn't mean it comes naturally. Here's how to get started.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Nursing Bras
Nursing Shirts
Nursing Pillows
Armchairs
Gliders
Rocking Chairs
Juices
Water
Diapers

Step1

Make sure your hands are clean.

Step2

Choose a breast-feeding position: on your lap (cradle hold), baby at your side (football hold) or lying on your side (reclining position). Use pillows to support your back and arms as necessary.

Step3

Hold your baby very close, with his head, shoulders and hips facing you. While his mouth is close to your breast, tickle his mouth with your nipple. When he opens his mouth (the 'rooting' reflex), bring him in the rest of the way. If he is latched on correctly, his lips will be flared out and he will take a good portion of your areola into his mouth.

Step4

Expect to feel a pulling of the nipple, or even some pain initially. If pain lasts beyond a few seconds, the baby is probably sucking on just the tip of the nipple; remove him from the breast and try latching him on again.

Step5

Let your baby nurse on the first breast as long as he wants, to ensure that he gets enough to eat and that your milk supply will keep pace with his needs.

Step6

To remove your baby from the breast, insert a clean finger into his mouth to release the suction, and then pull him off.

Step7

Burp your baby after he finishes the first side, then offer the other breast. If he doesn't take the other breast, offer that breast at the next feeding.

Step8

Nurse at least 10 to 12 times a day, or whenever your baby seems hungry. Signs of hunger include increased alertness or activity, mouthing and rooting. Crying is a late indicator of hunger.

Tips & Warnings

Eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of fluid. You may want to have water or juice nearby as you nurse.
Delay bottle feedings for at least three to four weeks to avoid nipple confusion. If a delay is not possible, ask a lactation specialist about alternative feeding methods.
You will know that breast-feeding is going well if your baby gains weight on schedule. He will lose some weight in the first week, but should be up to his birth weight by two weeks and start to gain steadily after that.
If breast-feeding isn't going well, get support. Some hospitals employ lactation specialists. La Leche League is an excellent support group for nursing mothers; visit www.lalecheleague.org or call (847) 519-7730.

Comments

Allandra said

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on 7/21/2007 I wish babies came with a manual! Breast feeding is not easy and is no piece of cake for new mothers. The best advice I can give is to try, try and try some more. Don't give up and don't feel afraid to ask for help. No one is going to look down on you if you are unable to breast feed. Keep trying and you will succeed eventually.

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 I received a special ruby ring on the occasion of the birth of our first child. Instead of the hassle of a safety pin or the awkward and obvious wrist band, I just switch my ring to the opposite hand. It is quick, consistent (I find I can't feed with it on the same side) and much more fashionable. But besides the vanity, it is a special reminder to me of the occasion for which it commemorates.

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Even easier, safer, and perhaps more attractive than a safety pin is a fabric-covered hair elastic (called a scrunchy), or an elastic beaded bracelet. Switch it to the wrist on the side from which you have just nursed.

Anonymous said

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on 11/22/2005 Some babies find it more difficult to latch on when the milk comes in as the breasts can become engorged, have a breast pump sterilised and ready (or hand express)to avoid the baby becoming too hungry and irretable.