1. All women have milk.
There is less than 1% of womenwho may have low or no milk supply because they are gravely ill, had complications with breast surgery or took very strong medications.
2. Mommies have milk from birth.
Colostrum is produced for the 1st few days followed by transitional milk then mature milk. Squeezing and pumping will not draw the colostrum out but only direct suckling.
3. Babies (and mommies) need to learn how to breastfeed.
It is natural for babies to suckle but breastfeeding is new to both mommy & baby so they need patience to learn and master it.
4. Colostrum is more medicinal than nutritive.
Babies are not hungry during the 1st few days but need to breastfeed to get the colostrum which will protect them from illnesses during the early months. It is also a good time for baby to practice and master breastfeeding. Water & formula only makes the baby lose the drive to suckle effectively.
5. Position & latch are key to success.
Tummy to tummy position. Baby should get nipple & areola (as much breast possible), cheeks well rounded, whole jaw moving and gulping action seen.
6. No pumping for the 1st six weeks.
Breastfeeding works on supply & demand. It takes 6 weeks for a mom's body to fully master demand of baby. Pumping before that time will cause false demand and may lead to over or under supply.
7. Breastfeeding may be uncomfortable at the start.
The breasts have never been subjected to this kind of suckling and may become sore at the start. If position and latch are correct, be patient. Skin on the breast will adjust and be more flexible in a few days.
8. Breastfeed exclusively for the 1st 6 months.
NO FORMULA, WATER (breastmilk is 70% water) nor VITAMINS (breastmilk has complete antibodies). This will protect your baby from all childhood diseases upto 12 years old.
9. Wash hands but do not wash / wipe breasts.
The breasts have a natural moisturizer secreted by the Montgomery glands to keep it hydrated and clean. Cleaning with water before feeding takes off that moisture and leads to dryness and skin breakage. Furthermore, breastmilk has anti-bacterial properties that keeps area clean and sterile each feeding session.
10. Breastfeed babies upto 2 years old.
Breastfeeding upto 2 years old reduces the risks of getting family diseases. Aside from increased IQ & EQ, this is definitely the best for your child.
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