How to know whether your breast milk is sufficient for the baby?
Published on Oct 19, 2016 and last reviewed on Sep 07, 2018 - 1 min read
Abstract
Breast milk is a nature's gift to provide the entire nutrition required for a newborn. In this article, I have highlighted the importance of breastfeeding, a few breastfeeding tips and advise to breastfeeding mothers. I have also explained the ways to understand if the breast milk is sufficient for your baby.
Breast milk is the nutrition which nature has provided and is packed with all that is required for your baby till 6 months of age.
Importance of Breastfeeding:
- A new born healthy baby has to be started on exclusive breastfeeding as early as possible after birth and continued till 6 months of age.
- Till 6 months breast milk alone will take care of all the nutritional needs, not even water is required.
- Breast milk not only gives water and energy to your baby but also helps in growth.
- It contains various factors that are essential for brain growth.
- It helps to build immunity and prevent infections.
- Studies have shown numerous benefits of breastfeeding like prevention of asthma, diabetes, obesity later in life.
- Breast milk is hygienic.
Advise to Breastfeeding Mothers:
Exclusive breastfeeding till 6 months completion that is not even water, oral medicines can be given when prescribed or supplements in low birth weight babies.
After 6 months completion start other feeding along with breast milk, because by now growth is increasing and breast milk will not be sufficient.
Breastfeeding mothers have to consume more calories (one extra meal) and enough fluids, so that the breastmilk secretion is sufficient for her baby.
How to Know whether Breast Milk is Sufficient for your Baby?
- Your baby should feed for at least 15 to 20 minutes from one side.
- Your baby should sleep for 45 minutes to 2 hours after breastfeeding.
- Your baby should pass urine 8 to 10 times in 24 hours.
- Your baby should have an adequate weight gain i.e, 30 grams per day in the first 3 months.
If all the above mentioned are present, then your baby is getting adequate breastfeeds and you need not worry till 6 months completion.
To know more about breastfeeding, consult a lactation counselor online --> https://www.icliniq.com/ask-a-doctor-online/lactation-counselor
07 Sep 2018 - 1 min read
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