Breastfeeding

Breastfeeding is a unique way to connect with your baby, both emotionally and physically. Through breastfeeding, not only is the basic need for food for the newborn met, but you also learn to recognize the signs of the body language of your baby, and your baby learns to trust you. Therefore, breastfeeding is a unique opportunity for the development of the bond between mother and child. 

Mother's Milk: The Most Suitable Food for the Baby

Mother's milk is the best food for the baby, as it is easy to digest, and contains all the necessary nutrients (vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants), resulting in strengthening the baby's immune system and reducing the risk of certain diseases. Additionally, it has no cost, is always available, and easily accessible at any time, without preparation. 

Breastfeeding: Process and Breastfeeding Positions

There are many different breastfeeding positions, which you need to try first to find which one suits you and your baby best. The ideal breastfeeding position is different for each mother, however, it needs to have the following characteristics:

• Helps in skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby
• Is comfortable for the mother and does not strain the shoulders or hands
• The baby's head is relaxed and in a straight line, with the nipple at the level of the nose
• The baby can latch onto the breast well, meaning the nipple is close to the baby's palate
• You don't have to lean towards the baby or move, but the baby comes close to you

Generally, we recommend that babies be exclusively breastfed for at least six months. Once the baby starts eating solid food, breastfeeding can continue supplementarily for two years or more. Usually, it is initially done every 2-3 hours and can go up to every 4-5 hours.

Initially, in the first days after childbirth, your breast produces colostrum, which helps the newborn's digestive system to develop and prepare for the digestion of the mother's milk. Mother's milk is normally produced 10-15 days after childbirth. It is important to remember that most babies lose a little weight in the first days after their birth, but this has nothing to do with breastfeeding.