Dr. Esmond
The staff at Grand Park Medical believes that breastfeeding your baby is the best and healthiest way to nourish your baby. Of course, this is an individual decision. We encourage expecting mothers to speak with their doctor before they deliver about their thoughts on breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding provides increased immunity for your baby, as well it improves the bond between mother and baby. Families soon realize that it is also easier than having to sterilize and make up bottles (and remember to take them with you when you go out), and it is also more economical than bottle feeding.
It is important for the baby to get a good latch. Be sure that before you leave the hospital you are comfortable with this. If you have questions when you get home, you can call your local public health department or your local hospital and they will direct you to breastfeeding resources in your area. Please check our website links as well for more information on this topic. (coming soon).
Some suggestions to consider: you may want to try "skin-to-skin" breastfeeding to encourage bonding. (you can also do this with bottle-fed babies) Alternate sides with each feeding. Feeds usually last about 10 minutes, this is enough time for baby to be fed, but each baby is different and you will soon learn how long your babe will need to feed each time. Do not allow the baby to use your breast as "soother" or pacifier- this is not healthy, and will likely cause the mother to get cracked and sore nipples. As well, it can promote mastitis. (blocked and infected feeding ducts) One way to prevent cracked nipples is to try and "toughen" them up before baby arrives. You can try rubbing a towel over them when you're drying off after your shower, and also try going without a bra while you're at home. This will help to prepare your breasts for breastfeeding. Another tip is to express a bit of milk after your baby has done feeding, and rub it into your nipple. This acts like a natural moisturizer.
If you have non-urgent questions about breastfeeding, or bottle-feeding, please post them in our Health and Well-being discussion board. If you are having difficulty feeding your baby-please contact your local public health department, local hospital or family doctor's office for information on local resources.
Written by the Grand Park Medical R.N./KM
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