<p>After giving birth, one of the most important decisions you have to make is how to feed your newborn: through breastfeeding or formula. Breastfeeding is the natural and recommended method to feed your baby. The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months after birth and continued breastfeeding alongside appropriate foods for up to two years of age. Although breastfeeding takes effort and practice, the benefits for both mother and baby are considered to be worth it.​
</p><p><strong>The Benefits of Breastfeeding</strong></p><p>There are many advantages to breastfeeding for both you and your infant that can aid your physical and emotional well-being. Breast milk contains just the right balance of nutrients, proteins, fats, and vitamins that promote optimal growth and development of your baby. </p><p>Along with being nutritious, breast milk contains antibodies and other immune-boosting factors that help protect your newborn from certain infections, allergies, and illnesses. Babies that are breastfed have a lower risk of developing chronic conditions later in life, such as diabetes, obesity, asthma, and certain allergies. Breastfed babies also have lower chances of contracting sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).  </p><p>Breastfeeding has important benefits for mothers as well. Since breastfeeding can burn extra calories, it can help you get back to your pre-pregnancy weight faster. Additionally, breastfeeding can reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, and even lower your risk of breast and ovarian cancers. The act of breastfeeding also enhances the emotional bond between you and your baby, helping you in caring for and nurturing your child.   
</p><p><strong>How to Start Breastfeeding</strong></p><p>It is recommended to begin breastfeeding within one hour of your baby&#39;s birth.</p><ol><li>Start with skin-to-skin contact by holding your baby against your skin to help encourage your baby&#39;s instincts to begin feeding.</li><li>Hold your baby to your breast in a comfortable position. This might take some experimenting to see what position works best for you both.</li><li>Once you and your baby are comfortable and ready, guide your baby&#39;s mouth to latch onto your nipple. Make sure your baby&#39;s mouth covers most of the areola (the dark area around the nipple) rather than just the nipple itself. This allows your baby to get enough milk and reduces nipple soreness as well. If you happen to feel any pain, it means your baby has not latched on properly.</li><li>Look out for hunger cues in your baby, such as moving towards your breast, becoming more alert, sucking on their hands, or making lip-smacking sounds.</li><li>If your baby appears to be having trouble getting milk during feedings, use your hand to gently squeeze your breast to encourage milk flow. </li></ol><p>Remember that breastfeeding is a learned skill that improves after practice, so don&#39;t be discouraged if you face any difficulties. Make sure to consult the AKUH Lactation Services if you are experiencing pain, difficulty latching, have concerns about your milk supply, or if you need general advice on breastfeeding.  
</p><p><strong>Common Breastfeeding Concerns</strong></p><p>While breastfeeding is a natural and nutritious way of feeding your baby, it can come with its share of challenges. Many women have a variety of questions and worries related to breastfeeding, a few of which include:​
</p><ul><li><strong>Is breastfeeding painful?</strong>
A little discomfort and soreness in your breasts are common in the beginning as your body adjusts. However, breastfeeding should not be painful if your baby is positioned properly and latched on correctly. If you feel pain in your nipple while your baby breastfeeds, seek help from your healthcare provider or lactation consultant to help you hold your baby correctly and ensure a proper latch. ​
 
</li><li><strong>How can I breastfeed as a working woman?</strong>
When you go back to work after your maternity leave, you can pump or &quot;express&quot; your milk and store it in sterile containers in the refrigerator or freezer. This means that someone else can feed the expressed milk to your baby while you are away from home or otherwise busy.
</li></ul><ul><li><strong>How often should I breastfeed my baby?</strong>
Typically, newborns should feed around 8-12 times in a 24-hour period, as they have small stomachs and need frequent nourishment. This frequency will likely decrease as your baby grows. However, every breastfeeding journey is unique, and you and your baby will eventually develop your own feeding pattern.

</li><li><strong>When can I introduce a bottle or pacifier?</strong>
Ideally you should be exclusively breastfeeding for the first six months of your baby&#39;s life. This means no bottles, formula, or pacifiers until the baby is six months old. Make sure to consult with a lactation expert or paediatrician for personalised advice based on your baby&#39;s specific needs and circumstances.
</li></ul><p>Don&#39;t be afraid to ask your healthcare provider any and all questions about caring for your child. Many new mothers need constant help and support to confidently breastfeed their baby and cope with the discomfort that might come with it. Your lactation consultant will be there for you every step of the way, so make sure to always consult a professional on your breastfeeding journey.
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