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| Breastfeeding Your Baby |
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Congratulations! Now that your baby has arrived, perhaps one of the most immediate decisions for you is whether to breastfeed.
At KK Women's and Children's Hospital, we are committed to promoting breastfeeding because of the benefits for both mother and child.
Breastmilk is the best food for your baby as it contains all the nutrition that your baby needs in his first 6 months.
Furthermore, through your milk, your child will acquire the immunity which you have developed against certain illnesses.
More significantly, breastfeeding enhances the bond between you and your baby. Mothers who breastfeed often feel a strong sense of closeness towards their babies and vice versa.
To help you enjoy these benefits, we have prepared this guide to help you breastfeed successfully. We hope that you will find it helpful and we welcome your feedback. | |
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| Benefits For The Baby |
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Complete nutrition. It contains all the nutrients babies need for the first 4 to 6 months of age.
Counters risk of infection. Colostrum, the early milk produced after birth, is rich in antibodies. These antibodies help the baby fight against infections e.g. diarrhoea and respiratory infections. Breastfed babies are also less prone to allergies, colic and constipation.
Comfort and security as your baby feeds from your breast. | |
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| Benefits For The Mother |
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Convenience
There is no need for bottles, sterilisation or temperature check. |
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Cleanliness
Breastmilk is free of germs and washing your nipples with water once daily is sufficient. |
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Cost saving
Breastmilk does not cost money and saves you paying for formula feeds. |
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Contraction of the womb
When baby suckles, this reduces the chance of severe bleeding and speeds up the return of the womb to pre-pregnancy size. |
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Confidence
It builds the mother's confidence as she fulfills the child's emotional and physical needs. |
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Child spacing
Breastfeeding delays the return of menstruation and can help you plan your family if you are fully breastfeeding for the first 6 months. |
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Cancers
Risk of breast cancer is reduced in women who breastfeed. |
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Calories
During breastfeeding, calories are used up and the fat stored around the hips and thighs during pregnancy may be lost if a sensible diet is followed. | |
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| Preparation For Breastfeeding |
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You should be prepared physically, mentally and emotionally.
Physical preparation
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Maintain a well-balanced diet during and after pregnancy. Increase intake of meats, vegetables and fruits. |
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Have a breast examination by your doctor / midwife to check if you need help. |
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Prepare your wardrobe for breastfeeding. Get a good support nursing bra by the 7th month of pregnancy. Acquire loose blouse / T-shirt or 2-piece clothing. |
Mental and emotional preparation
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Read updated materials on breastfeeding |
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Plan how long you would breastfeed your baby. |
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Attend a breastfeeding talk with your spouse as early as possible. |
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Know where to source for help if needed. |
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Have a positive attitude and be confident that you can and will succeed. | | |
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