Cheritera Hikayati

Yes, I'm a new mom who is still confuse about breastfeeding especially the technique. Last month, I went to Antenatal Class with hubby and there were a session about breastfeeding. But, because of time was not enough, the session was too express and no details on the technique. I keep on searching and found at Babycenter all about breastfeeding. I LOVE Babycenter so much!

I know there are lotsa benefits of breastmilk. But, i'm worried about the my milk supply whether enough or not for my baby. Ok ok be positive! When there's a demand there'll be a supply. Hope that I can fully breastfeed my baby.

Ok, I read this information from Babycenter. This information is very good and useful for beginners like me.

Is it true that breast is best?Yes, breastmilk is the best food for your baby. Ask any health professional, and they will say that the healthiest way to feed your baby is to breastfeed her. Babies who are breastfed from birth are much less likely to be ill in their first year of life. Being breastfed may help your baby fend off illnesses such as:

gastroenteritis;
pneumonia and bronchiolitis;
urinary tract infections;
eczema;
ear infections.

It's possible that breastfeeding helps your baby stay healthy in the long term, too. One review showed that people who were breastfed as babies had lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels and were less likely to develop type two diabetes in adulthood than those who had been formula-fed.

But it's not just your baby who benefits from breastfeeding. It's good for you, too. It helps to lower your risk of getting breast cancer before you reach your menopause. It can also help protect you against ovarian cancer and weak bones (osteoporosis) later in life.

The World Health Organisation and the Health Ministry recommend that babies are given only breastmilk for their first six months. They also say that women should carry on breastfeeding after their babies have started on solids, until the end of the first year and beyond if they wish.

Breastmilk is a complete food. It contains at least 400 nutrients as well as hormones and disease-fighting compounds, which are not in formula milk. Its nutritional make-up even adjusts to your baby's needs as she grows. Find out more about how your body makes breastmilk.

And apart from the brain-building, infection-fighting benefits of your milk, which no formula can offer, breastfeeding helps to build a special bond between you and your baby.

How can I prepare for breastfeeding? 
As long as you're healthy, there's not much more you can do to prepare your body for breastfeeding. But you can prepare your mind. Learn as much about breastfeeding as you can before your baby is born. Encourage your husband to learn about breastfeeding, too, so he can support and encourage you. 

How do I start breastfeeding? 
Since feeds can take anything from seven to 40 minutes, pick a comfortable place for breastfeeding. Atmosphere is very important, especially in the early days of breastfeeding when you're still trying to get the hang of it. If you are easily distracted and disrupted by noise, find somewhere quiet. If you are easily bored, you may want to feed in front of the television, but only if breastfeeding is going well for you and your baby. Try different spots until you find what works for you.

Hold your baby in a position that won't leave your arms and back sore. Add support around you with plenty of cushions. Many women find the cradle position works well, although it really depends on what is most comfortable for you. Get yourself and your baby in a relaxed position before you start feeding. Pay attention to how your breasts feel when your baby latches on. She should take in a big mouthful of breast tissue. If latching on hurts, break the suction - by inserting your little finger between your baby's gums and your nipple - and try again. Once your baby latches on properly, she will be able to do the rest. 

I've heard of other mums having problems breastfeeding 
Although women have breastfed their babies for centuries, it isn't always easy. Many women face difficulties in the early days. In the first six weeks, as your milk supply adjusts and your baby learns how to breastfeed, you may suffer from:

engorgement: overfull breasts;
mastitis: an inflammation of the breast;
sore nipples.

So how easy is breastfeeding really? 
Some women adjust to breastfeeding easily, encountering no major hurdles. But many new mothers find it hard to learn - so if you're feeling discouraged, remember that you're not the only one. If you feel like giving up (or just want professional advice), contact a breastfeeding counsellor (most hospitals have them). Our Breastfeeding A-Z directory also offers more resources.

Also, talk to your doctor about any health concerns that may impede successful breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding takes practice. Give yourself as much time as you need to get it down to a fine art. Take it a day, a week or even just a feed at a time. If you're having a bad feeding day, tell yourself that tomorrow will be better. And keep in mind that any problems you are having are likely to be temporary. By the time of your six-week check, you'll probably be breastfeeding without giving it a second thought. If not, don't hesitate to ask for support.

Can I breastfeed in public? 
Although you may feel shy about breastfeeding in front of other people, it is becoming an increasingly common sight in urban Malaysia. Besides, you can't be expected to run home every time your baby needs to eat. Some tops are designed to allow you to breastfeed discreetly. Avoid shirts that you have to unbutton as they will make you feel very exposed - stretchy tops you can pull up work well. Draping a scarf, selendang or thin cloth blanket over your shoulder and chest as your baby feeds also helps you feed more discreetly in public (make sure your child is still able to breathe easily).

Most of the larger shopping centres built or renovated within the last five years have mother and baby rooms where you can sit comfortably and feed alongside others. Even if you don't have access to such facilities, most establishments will accommodate a nursing mother and hungry baby. Go ahead and ask for a discreet room or corner when you want to feed your baby. Soon, when breastfeeding becomes more familiar, you won't think twice about feeding your baby in public.

On the other hand, you may want to consider the fact that the Malaysian lifestyle can present some unique challenges to breastfeeding in public. For instance, if you are out at the hawker squares or 24-hour mamak stalls (never mind facilities, where can I find a clean toilet?!), it may be better to give your hungry baby a quick feed in your car (doors locked and engine running so you can run the air-con). Complete the feed once you are home.

Can I breastfeed after I go back to work? 
Yes. Going back to work doesn't have to mean the end of breastfeeding. In fact, mothers who work outside the home are often able to feed their babies for as long as they want. You may want to express milk at work or breastfeed only when you are with your baby. Both are possible.

If your employer is well informed, they may know that mums who carry on breastfeeding after they return to work take less time off. This is because breastfed babies are less likely to be ill.

Ok, I'll search more on the breastfeeding techniques so that we can learn together. Enjoice reading!

Source: Babycenter