BREASTFEEDING

Breast milk is the optimal nourishment for your newborn, and the Canadian Paediatric Society recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the initial six months of life. Continuing breastfeeding beyond six months is encouraged, and it can extend up to two years and beyond. Breast milk, uniquely produced for each baby, offers protection against allergens and contains antibodies for enhanced immunity.

Key Points:

  • Nutrient-rich: Breast milk provides the right balance of nutrients for your baby’s early needs, aiding in digestion and reducing the risk of constipation or diarrhea.
  • Historical Perception: While there was once a belief that bottlefeeding was superior, current understanding supports breastfeeding as the preferred choice. Seek help and support if faced with challenges.
  • Breastfeeding Routine:
    • Feed on demand, which may be every two to three hours initially.
    • Allow your baby to set the pace, and be open to “cluster feeding” during growth spurts.
  • Feeding Well Signs:
    • Short swallowing sounds gradually lengthening during feeding.
    • Even movement of your areola and your baby’s jaw muscles.
    • Contentment after feeding.
    • Comfortable nursing process.
  • Feeding Concerns:
    • Lip smacking and minimal swallowing indicate potential feeding issues.
    • Discontent after feeding.
    • Pain during nursing.
  • Sufficient Intake Signs:
    • Six to eight wet diapers in 24 hours.
    • Yellowish stools during the first month and subsequently at a reduced frequency.
    • Regular weight gain.
  • General Tips:
    • Maintain hand hygiene before breastfeeding.
    • Address cracked or sore nipples with exposure to air and lanolin application.
    • Avoid soap on nipples to preserve natural lubricants.
    • Be aware of mastitis symptoms and seek medical attention.
  • Expressing Breast Milk:
    • Express milk by hand or with a pump if engorged.
    • Facilitates feeding in your absence and involvement of others in caregiving.
  • Storage Guidelines:
    • Use sterilized glass bottles or containers for expressed milk.
    • Refrigerate for up to 48 hours, freeze for two weeks in a refrigerator freezer, or up to six months in a deep freezer.
    • Avoid mixing warm and chilled or frozen milk.
  • Feeding Preparation:
  • Thaw frozen milk in the refrigerator.
  • Warm the bottle in a container of warm water before feeding.
  • Shake the bottle well to mix separated layers.
  • Supplemental Vitamin D:
    • Breast milk lacks sufficient vitamin D, and babies should receive a daily supplement in drop form.
    • Reasons Not to Breastfeed:
      • Rare cases, such as long-term chemotherapy or HIV disease, may warrant advice against breastfeeding.
      • If you are sick, consult your doctor for guidance on nursing while on prescription drugs.
      • Formula Feeding:
      • Use iron-fortified infant formula if breastfeeding is not possible for the first 9 to 12 months.
      • Opt for soy-based formulas only if dairy products are not suitable for health, cultural, or religious reasons.
      • Introduction of solid foods can begin at 6 months.
      • Seeking Guidance:
        • Consult your doctor, midwife, or community-based programs for advice on breastfeeding.
        • Lactation consultants, public health nurses, and breastfeeding coordinators are valuable resources.

        Source: Developed by the Canadian Paediatric Society. Last updated December 2006.