Baby and Kid News
Breast Feeding Babies
mother during feedings, and it is certainly easier than bottle feeding. There is never a need to worry about running out of formula or keeping it cold or warming it up, and you don't have to worry about buying formula all the time. According to gather.com, an online breastfeeding resource sponsored by the Harvard Medical School, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that babies be exclusively breast fed until they're at least six months of age, which means no juice, no solids, etc., and to continue breastfeeding until one year of age.
Breast feeding babies may be the most natural way to feed them, but certainly not the easiest. It can be uncomfortable and slightly painful for the mother at first, but it gets better after the first few days and weeks as the nipples toughen up. Once the baby is latched correctly on the breast, the pain should go away, but if it continues the baby isn’t latched correctly. Continued pain during feeding or sore and cracked nipples are often a sign of incorrect baby positioning. Lanolin, expressed breast milk, and warm moist tea bags are helpful remedies that will help heal the nipples. All new moms should also take advantage of the help offered by the hospital lactation consultant after delivery of the baby. Their support and expertise can make a big difference in the initial breastfeeding experience. Many moms stop breast feeding babies for a multitude of reasons, such as, the baby wouldn’t take the breast, nipples were too sore, not producing enough milk, or feeling uncomfortable nursing them in public. There may be a few obstacles when breast feeding babies, but it can be done successfully.
The La Leche League is a wonderful resource for new mothers and their breast feeding babies, featuring all kinds of helpful advice and information on ecery aspect of breastfeeding. At the organization’s website laleche.org, mothers and moms-to-be can also find helpful information about pumping and storing breast milk, in addition to other breastfeeding support and tips. Lots of questions are normal, and practice will make perfect. Breast feeding babies isn’t always easy at first; it takes time, patience, and a commitment to get off to a good start. It’s certainly a learning experience for both mother and baby, but not one so difficult that it shouldn’t be given a try. Breastfeeding is convenient, and requires no advance planning, packing, or equipment, and is always available.
Breast feeding babies are taking the lead over formula fed babies once again. Overwhelming data shows that not only is it great for the health of babies, but it’s good for mothers too, and it’s certainly no secret that pediatricians favor breast feeding over bottle feeding. Breastfeeding also promotes bonding between baby and
