Breastfeeding Basics

You may have heard the message before "- breast is best -" but in this case, it's not all hype. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends breastfeeding at least for your child's first year, and longer if possible. Breast milk, according to the AAP, is "uniquely superior for infant feeding." It has many nutrients that shore up your baby's immune system to they can fight off diseases, and adjusts to your child's nutritional needs as he grows older.

Studies show that breastfeeding decreases your baby's risk of developing diarrhea, lower respiratory infection, ear infections, bacterial meningitis, urinary tract infection, and many other illnesses. Research also suggests that breastfeeding may make your baby less prone to SIDS, Crohn's disease, and other serious conditions. Plus, nursing allows a mother and her baby to bond; many nursing mothers say they enjoy the skin-to-skin contact breastfeeding allows, and the kids seem to like it, too.

Breastfeeding benefits the mother as well. According to La Leche League International, it can help a new mom lose weight more easily because she burns calories while she nurses. Also, the act of breastfeeding triggers the release of a hormone called oxytocin in the mother's body, which helps her uterus return to its normal pre-pregnancy size. Nursing also helps the body produce prolactin, a hormone that brings on a relaxed state of being.

What You Need To Know

Some moms and babies take to breastfeeding easily, while others have to learn how. The process doesn't always go smoothly. With this in mind, prepare to invest a few weeks to learn how to breastfeed well. It's important that your baby latches on properly so both of you are comfortable during feedings. You may want to consult a certified lactation consultant to learn the basic techniques. You can find one at the hospital where you gave birth, or ask your physician for a referral.

If you suffer from sore, cracked, or bleeding nipples, or experience other problems, a lactation consultant or your physician can recommend a course of treatment. Often, these problems resolve themselves as you get better at breastfeeding. If you feel engorged (as if your breasts are too full), you may need to nurse more often or use a breast pump in between feedings. But if you get a fever, experience flu-like symptoms, or have any other concerns, call your doctor immediately. You may be suffering from mastitis, a breast infection that will need antibiotic treatment.

How Often You Should Nurse

Most medical experts recommend nursing on demand. That means your child sets the schedule for you. If he seems to get hungry every two hours, feed him accordingly. If he seems to need to nurse more or less often, follow his lead. Learn your baby's cues. Does he cry out for food in a certain way? When you hold him, does he root around in search of your breasts? He may be signaling a need to nurse. Try not to worry about whether your baby is getting enough milk. As long as he's growing and gaining weight steadily his pediatrician should be able to tell you during his doctor's visits, and if he appears healthy, happy, and alert, you're doing fine.