Maria Luisa Osmena, MD
Pediatrician
Specializing in newborn care, breastfeeding and behavioral pediatrics
affiliated with Seton Medical Center
Throughout the centuries, women have breastfed their infants. This natural process is not only nutritionally sound, but a most beautiful and intimate way of getting to know your newborn.
Today, medical professionals agree that there are many benefits to breastfeeding for both you and your baby. For the baby, breastmilk is easily digested and contains perfectly matched nutrition and antibodies, which significantly lessens their risk of future illness such as infections and allergies. For the mother, breastfeeding is convenient and economical, and helpful with the process of the uterus returning to it normal size and lessens the risk of certain cancers.
A good breastfeeding relationship takes time for both you and your baby to be comfortable with one another. The first two days right after birth is the most crucial time in the development of breastmilk. Your milk supply is regulated by supply and demand. The more you breastfeed, use a breast pump or stimulate milk flow by hand, the more milk you will produce. It is recommended you nurse your baby immediately after birth, for at least 10 minutes on each breast, every 2 hours during the few weeks of life and frequently thereafter. This will ensure that your baby will have a steady supply of milk for proper growth and development.
Calm, comfortable and close are the three "C's" of breastfeeding. Calm: the baby will respond better if you are relaxed as your emotions are tied to your milk production and supply; Comfortable: Your back should be straight and well-supported, and your knees a little higher than your hips. You should place a small stool or pillow under your feet for support and have a pillow that supports the baby at breast height. Close: skin-to-skin contact will keep your baby warm, interested in breastfeeding and afford you a wonderful bonding experience. Proper positioning and latch (attached to the breast correctly) is the key to successful breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding is a learned experience and being prepared and well informed is important. If you are a parent or prospective parent looking for more information on breastfeeding, I encourage you to take classes from your healthcare provider's office or hospital. You and your child will greatly reap the multitude of benefits that breastfeeding offers.