Embarking on the breastfeeding journey? Preparation is your secret weapon to achieving your feeding goals!
As you anticipate the arrival of your little one, especially if it's your first, your focus might be understandably on the birth itself. Beyond that, you're likely deep in research mode, perhaps comparing the latest prams or stocking up on essential nappies, and mentally preparing for your return to work.
However, the intricate path of breastfeeding often doesn't receive the same level of detailed planning, according to Pamela Douglas, a General Practitioner and breastfeeding educator based in Brisbane/Meanjin. This is a crucial point, as while a remarkable 96% of mothers in Australia initiate breastfeeding, a significant drop occurs by the time babies reach five months old, with exclusive breastfeeding rates falling to just 15%.
Charlotte Fielding, assistant branch president of the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) in Tasmania, emphasizes that understanding what to expect before your baby arrives can dramatically improve your chances of success. "Really getting good, accurate, evidence-based information… that is really key to getting breastfeeding off to a good start," she advises.
Before we delve into the specifics, we want to acknowledge all mothers who, for any reason, may not have been able to breastfeed. Your journey is valid and important.
The Enduring Benefits of Breastfeeding
National guidelines recommend exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby's life. Furthermore, it's advised to continue breastfeeding alongside appropriate complementary foods until your child is 12 months old and beyond, as long as both mother and child desire. The World Health Organization (WHO) extends this recommendation to breastfeeding for two years and beyond.
When babies are breastfed, particularly exclusively and for extended periods, they experience a reduced risk of various health issues. These include common ailments like gastrointestinal, respiratory, and ear infections, as well as long-term concerns such as obesity and childhood cancers. But the benefits aren't just for the baby! Mothers who breastfeed, especially for longer durations, also see a decreased likelihood of developing certain health conditions, including breast and ovarian cancers.
Why Do So Many Mothers Stop Breastfeeding?
While some mothers find breastfeeding a natural and easy process, many encounter challenges. Research indicates that common reasons cited for stopping breastfeeding altogether, or transitioning to mixed feeding within the initial months, include concerns about "not enough breastmilk for the child," a "baby being unsettled," the "child not attaching properly," and experiencing "too much pain."
"They are the most frequent reasons breastfeeding mothers phone the [ABA support] helpline for – a lot of people have concerns about that, and those things can be addressed by getting the right information beforehand," Ms. Fielding explains. "If you educate yourself beforehand, you learn what is normal." This prior knowledge, she adds, can significantly help in addressing any breastfeeding issues more effectively and swiftly.
Let's explore some fundamental breastfeeding principles.
How Often Should I Feed My Baby?
Parents are often surprised by the frequency of newborn feeding demands. Ms. Fielding notes, "the evidence shows understanding how your breasts produce milk can really help with getting breastfeeding established." In the initial weeks, hormones are key players in milk production, but breastfeeding also operates on a supply and demand principle. Simply put, the more milk is removed from the breast, the more milk your body will produce. "We make milk by removing milk," Dr. Douglas states, emphasizing that frequent and flexible feeds are crucial for building a robust milk supply. "Babies need, right from the start, [to have] frequent access to the breast, and it doesn't have to be long. It's not about every breastfeed having to be a meal." She suggests aiming for 12 feeds in each breast within a 24-hour period, acknowledging that some mothers may need fewer, but this frequency is considered normal. The goal is to offer "lots of opportunity" rather than "forcing or coercing" feeds. Ms. Fielding also stresses the importance of not "delaying feeds." "Keep your baby close and respond to the first indicator they might be getting ready for a feed."
How Do I Know If My Baby Is Getting Enough Breastmilk?
A common concern for mothers is whether their baby is receiving adequate milk. Fortunately, nappy output can be a reliable indicator. By five days old, your baby should typically have at least five wet disposable nappies or at least six very wet cloth nappies in a 24-hour period. "Poos are also important. They need to do three poos a day until baby is six weeks old." Physical growth, including weight gain and an increase in head circumference, alongside a healthy appearance (good skin colour, alertness when awake), are further positive signs. Sometimes, milk supply can fluctuate, for instance, if formula is introduced, breastfeeding frequency decreases, or if either mother or baby is unwell. Learning more about breastmilk supply can be very helpful in navigating these situations.
Should Breastfeeding Hurt?
While some initial nipple tenderness or discomfort is common, persistent or severe nipple pain can signal an issue. "A lot of the pain settles down, but we don't know which women will move into ulcers and bleeding nipples," Dr. Douglas cautions. For pain related to attachment difficulties, she recommends the gestalt breastfeeding method. This approach allows the baby to explore the breast in a comfortable, reclined position, facilitating an efficient latch, effective milk transfer, and positive neurodevelopment. Dr. Douglas also suggests making "micro-movements, millimetre by millimetre" when positioning the baby for feeding to aid in comfort and latch.
What Are the Other Benefits of Breastfeeding?
Beyond providing essential hydration and nutrition, breastfeeding offers babies significant physical and emotional comfort. "It's a whole sensory motor wrap-around experience of love," Dr. Douglas describes. "The act of sucking lights up huge amounts of the infant brain," she adds, noting that "it's not specifically about milk at all in those first few days." It's important to note that Dr. Douglas also highlights that mothers who don't breastfeed can achieve similar bonding and attachment through other means, such as holding their baby close during every feed.
Seeking Support
Ms. Fielding strongly advises expectant mothers to seek out reliable, evidence-based resources, such as those provided by the ABA. "Talk to your maternity providers and tell them you plan to breastfeed." Ensuring partners and loved ones are informed and ready to offer support is also vital. And remember, "seek support early if you have any concerns," Ms. Fielding concludes.
What are your thoughts on the importance of prenatal breastfeeding education? Do you agree that preparation can significantly impact a mother's breastfeeding journey? Share your experiences and opinions below!
