Everything You Need To Know About Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is one of the most crucial steps during the early stage of the baby’s life. It is not only an essential part of a child's growth but also a phase that many people believe helps create an emotional and psychological bond between the infant and the child. 

Breastfeeding has unrivaled health advantages for both mother and child. As a result, organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics advocate exclusive nursing throughout the first six months of a baby's life, followed by continuous breastfeeding alongside solid meals for at least the first year. Breastfeeding, on the other hand, is an acquired technique that demands patience, practice, and support. This is a step-by-step tutorial that will teach pregnant and new parents all they need to know to get started and succeed with breastfeeding.

Why Breastfeed?

As breastmilk is the best food a child could consume, it’s naturally customized as a superfood. Breast milk consists of all the necessary nutrients and antibodies necessary for a baby’s growth.

Your first milk, known as colostrum, is referred to as "liquid gold" because it is high in nutrients and antibodies and aids in the growth and operation of babies' digestive systems. Your colostrum will mature into mature milk providing the ideal amount of fat, sugar, water, and protein for your baby to grow throughout the first one to two weeks of life.

Studies show breastfed babies have reduced risks of diseases such as:

• Asthma
• Obesity
• Type 2 diabetes
• Ear and respiratory infections
• Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

Breastfeeding also offers moms distinct health benefits, such as lower chances of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, type 2 diabetes, and postpartum depression. It produces oxytocin, which aids in the restoration of the uterus to normal size and the reduction of postpartum hemorrhage.

How Breast Milk is Made?

Breast milk production begins throughout pregnancy and is a wonderful process. During this process, two hormones, Prolactin and Oxytocin play the most vital role.

Prolactin is the hormone that instructs the breasts to begin producing milk. Due to this prolactin levels rise throughout pregnancy and immediately after birth.

Oxytocin on the other hand enables milk to be secreted, often known as "letting down." When the infant nurses, it causes the milk ducts to squeeze out the milk. The more milk the infant takes from the breasts, the more milk the body produces to compensate. The milk supply adjusts to meet the needs of the infant.

Proper Latching Techniques

A healthy latch ensures that the infant can extract milk properly and supports optimal milk production. Here are some pointers to help you acquire a good latch:

1. Hold the infant near to your nipple, nose level. Allow them to gape open their mouths.

2. Bring the infant onto the breast quickly, keeping the bottom lip well below the nipple.

3. Make sure the infant gets a good mouthful of breast tissue and not just the nipple. Above their top lip, there should be more areola than below their bottom lip.

4. As the baby feeds, his or her cheeks will seem plump and round. They are sipping milk, as shown by pauses and swallowing noises.

5. If the discomfort continues after a feeding, the latch may need to be adjusted. A lactation consultant can offer practical assistance.

Feeding Cues and Patterns

Nursing is necessary for newborns 8-12 times a day. Keep an eye out for early hunger indicators like as increased attention, rooting, or bringing hands to mouth. Crying is a late indication of hunger.

Breastfed babies usually nurse more frequently in the nights, which helps improve milk production. Growth spurts of 2-3 weeks, 6 weeks, and 3 months might also lead to an increase in demand.

Mothers can breastfeed whenever they choose rather than on a set timetable. At each feeding, both breasts should be provided. If the infant is still hungry, the next feeding can be from the same breast.

Milk Production Tips

Many moms are concerned about having enough milk production. These suggestions can help you optimize production:

1. Nurses regularly and wait until the infant has finished the first breast before switching.

2. Try providing both breasts during the feeding session. 

3. Get enough rest, water, and nourishment.

4. Nurse often and early to boost prolactin and oxytocin levels.

5. Pump after breastfeeding to completely empty the breasts.

6. Pacifiers and bottles should be avoided until breastfeeding is firmly established.

Common Challenges

Breastfeeding, in the beginning, takes patience and perseverance. It can be challenging for new mothers but a few tips can go a long way. Here are some common hurdles and how to overcome them:

Sore nipples: After breastfeeding, apply lanolin lotion to sore nipples. Improve the latch of your infant. To soften the areola, express some milk before breastfeeding.

Engorgment: Apply warm compresses before breastfeeding to relieve engorgement. Breasts should be massaged. Nursing should be done on a regular basis.

Low milk supply: Nurse often and then pump. Ascertain correct latching. Keep hydrated. Consult with a lactation consultant.

Plugged ducts: Massage the affected region and feed with the baby's chin pointing to the plug. Warm compresses should be used.

Mastitis: Continue breastfeeding if you have mastitis. If antibiotics are required, consult a doctor. Get plenty of rest and drinks.

Thrush: Antifungal creams and medications can be used to treat thrush in the mouth of a newborn or the breasts of a mother.

Teething: If your baby bites, unlatch them immediately. Nurse before the teething discomfort becomes unbearable.

Reflux: Keep infant upright during and after feedings to prevent reflux. Burp on a regular basis. Feed lesser quantities more frequently.

Support and Resources

Don't be afraid to seek assistance. Everyone has at least one difficulty during the early days of breastfeeding. Use the breastfeeding resources that are available:

1. Look for lactation specialists, support groups, and online discussion forums.

2. Discuss any breastfeeding concerns with your pediatrician.

3. Seek help from family, friends, and community groups.

4. Learn about workplace accommodations and insurance coverage for breast pumps.

5. Track your baby's feeding, nappies, and development.

You may successfully breastfeed your baby and enjoy the delight of this particular bonding time if you have the correct information, preparation, patience, and support. Mama, trust your body and your kid; you've got this!

Breastfeeding and IVF

IVF is a fertility procedure in which an egg is fertilized by sperm outside of the body (in vitro), and the resultant embryo is transported to the uterus for implantation. The procedure consists of many phases, including ovulation inducement, egg retrieval, laboratory fertilization, and embryo transfer.

When it comes to nursing after IVF, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Childbirth and pregnancy: A successful pregnancy is required before breastfeeding may begin. IVF raises the likelihood of pregnancy but does not guarantee it. Breastfeeding may be a possibility if the IVF process is successful and the lady brings the pregnancy to term.

Changes in hormones: Women are frequently given hormone medicines during IVF to increase egg production and support the uterine lining for embryo implantation. These hormonal changes may initially impact milk supply, although this does not exclude nursing. Some women's milk production may be delayed, while others may produce milk regularly.

The baby's health: The capacity to breastfeed will be determined by the health and condition of the baby born through IVF. Some IVF infants may have health concerns that interfere with their ability to attach and feed at the breast. Alternative feeding approaches may be required in such circumstances.

Medications: Some women may be administered drugs that are incompatible with nursing following IVF. It's critical to talk to your doctor about the safety of nursing while taking drugs.

Emotional factors: IVF is a physically and emotionally taxing procedure, and some women may feel stress or worry that interferes with nursing. If breastfeeding is the preferred feeding option, a supportive atmosphere and availability of resources are essential.

In conclusion, nursing after IVF is doable, although it varies from woman to woman depending on her specific circumstances. Consultation with a healthcare expert, especially a lactation consultant or a fertility and breastfeeding specialist, can give specific direction and support. For anyone looking for IVF clinics or lactation experts in Nepal, look no further than Nepal IVF. Nepal IVF is one of the most sought fertility clinics in Nepal with high-quality treatment and a team of highly experienced fertility experts to help every patient with compassionate care. Visit or contact Nepal IVF for consultation.