Technique of breast-feeding

Technique of breast-feeding:

1.     The mother's desire to feed is the first requirement for successful lactation. She should be psychologically prepared to feed. She should drink milk, juice or water before feeding.

2.     She must wash her hands before feeding.

3.     She should be physically and emotionally relaxed and comfortable.

4.     She can sit comfortably with a support at the back. It is advisable to hold the baby in her lap.

5.     If she is unable to sit, she may feed by lying on her side with a pillow under the shoulder.

6.     She must check whether the baby has soiled the linen. If required the baby should be cleaned and dried to make the baby comfortable, before feeding.

7.     The baby's head should be supported and slightly raised. The baby may be held in a semi-sitting position with his/her head close to the breast and supported with one arm.

8.     The cheek of the baby should touch the nipple so that by rooting reflex the baby can get to the nipple and letdown reflex is encouraged.

9.     If the breast is firm and full, it should be pressed with the first finger to prevent pressing of the baby's nose. Both breasts should be fed at each time, alternately, using each breast first. If possible one breast (which is given first) should be completely emptied at the alternate feeding.

10.                        During the first few days most of the babies fall asleep after taking a few sucks. They should be aroused by gentle tickle behind the ear or on the sole of the foot.

11.                        Before removal of the baby from the breast, it is necessary to break sucking by putting a little finger into (he comer of the baby's mouth.

12.                        Every baby swallows some air during the feeding and should beheld upright and patted on the back until the air is belched. If too much air is swallowed and not removed, the baby may have vomiting, colic, or fretfulness. After feeding, if required, the diaper should be changed.

13.                        After feeding, the baby must be positioned on a right side or on the abdomen.