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Reproduced with permission from
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Breastmilk is the best possible food and drink for a baby. |
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Find good support. An experienced and sympathetic adviser helps avoid or solves many common problems. |
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Start to breastfeed as soon as possible after birth, as this stimulates the production of breastmilk. |
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You can feed in many different positions. Whether you are sitting or lying, make sure you and your baby are well supported and comfortable, so that you can relax. |
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Equally important is the position of the baby on the breast. Hold baby very close to you with his whole body and head turned towards you. Baby should be well supported, with his head, neck and back in a straight line. Baby should feel relaxed and secure. |
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Wait for baby to open mouth wide. Make sure he takes your nipple to the back of his mouth. His bottom lip should be turned back against your breast. |
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If your nipples hurt while feeding, your baby is more than likely positioned incorrectly, so stop and try again. |
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Check that baby takes long, deep, strong, rhythmical sucks with occasional rests. |
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Let baby come off the breast himself when he has finished. |
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The more baby sucks, the more milk is produced. Let him suck as often and as long as he wants, including during the night. |
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After feeding, pat your nipples dry and apply a thin layer of Bennetts Nipple Cream. |
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You will know your baby is thriving if he is gaining weight and looking healthy. Breastfeed your baby on milk only, for the first four to six months. |
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After six months a variety of additional foods is necessary, but breastfeeding should continue well into the second year of a child's life. |
© Bennetts. For more information on Bennett's products see www.bennettsforbabies.co.za.
