when is breastfeeding established?

(July 22, 2010)

Breast Milk Production

Breast milk is the perfect food for a newborn infant as it has numerous benefits. It enables the baby to grow and develop properly as it fulfills all the physical and developmental requirements. It contains antibodies which help to protect the baby from illnesses and infections. It also encourages the development of the brain. There are long-lasting effects of breast milk and these effects will continue into adulthood as well. Breastfeeding also fosters a special bond between the mother and baby.

The milk supply is established in the initial few days and weeks after childbirth. It is recommended that a mother exclusively breastfeed her baby for the first six months of his/her life. Breastfeeding can begin as soon as the baby is born. Early breastfeeding promotes bonding between the mother and child and also reduces the risk of hemorrhage in the mother. The suckling of the baby enables the release of the hormone, oxytocin, which stimulates uterine contractions. Babies are born with a sucking reflex and they are also able to find their way to the mother’s breast when the lip or cheek is touched. This is referred to as the rooting reflex. However all babies may not be ready to breastfeed immediately after birth. Some are able to latch on to the breast quickly. Others may begin by nuzzling against the breast in order to familiarize themselves with the scent and touch of the mother. Breastfeeding may be initiated by placing the infant against the chest to promote contact and bonding. This early sensory contact helps in the child’s physical and mental development.

Before the milk supply becomes established, breastfeeding should occur on demand. This means that the baby should be nursed whenever he or she feels hungry. Newborn babies usually need to be nursed 8 to 12 times each day for the first month. Breast milk is digested more easily than formula and hence the baby may experience hunger quite often. Feeding the baby frequently also stimulates milk production during the initial weeks. After 1 to 2 months, babies usually nurse about 7 to 9 times each day. In about 6 to 8 weeks, the milk supply is likely to adjust to the infant’s needs. Before that, the breasts may appear to be rather full or too empty. The changes in the supply of milk will take place in about 1 to 3 days after changes in demand. As babies get older, they require less frequent nursing and a more regular schedule is likely to fall into place.

Submitted by P T on July 22, 2010 at 06:04