Female 1: Whether you have been dreaming of breast-feeding since you saw that positive pregnancy test or whether you are still unsure getting the basics on nursing is vital.
Female 2: If you are planning to breast feed, you are in good company. Up to 70% of American moms give nursing a try. Of course, it is also okay not to nurse. You will raise a healthy baby either way. Your breast milk is tailored to meet the needs of your baby. It changes in response so the amount here she consumes and contains at least a hundred ingredients that are not found in formula. Other benefits? Studies have shown that breast fed babies are less likely to suffer from infections, less likely to be overweight, more likely to have a higher IQ’s and more open to various foods as adults, and there are benefits for you too.
When your baby nurses, your body response by releasing the hormone oxytocin, which encourages you to bond with your baby and shrinks your uterus, you will also loose weight more quickly.
Breast feeding burns 500 calories a day. So how does it work? Before you leave the hospital or birthing center, you will be visited by a lactation consultant who will help you get started breast feeding. You will begin by holding your baby so you are both comfortable. Encourage him or her to open up by gently rubbing your nipple along the baby’s lips. When your baby latches on, ensure that the mouth covers both nipple and areola. If it does not, break the suction by gently inserting your finger in the corner of the mouth. Then, try again until your baby is properly positioned. This is vital because if your baby does not latch properly, you will wind with sore or even cracked nipples.
You can ease nipple discomfort by exposing them to air or applying lanolin based ointment after each feeding. And while your breast will be engorge for a few weeks after delivery, rest assured that they will reduce. Once your baby figures out how much milk he or she needs, and your body response. While nursing, you may notice a small tender lump on your breast, which is probably a clogged milk duct. Continue to nurse, massaging the duct or applying a heating pad should fix the problem. But contact your doctor if it does not.
During the first weeks after the delivery, your baby should eat 8 to 12 times a day. Nurse when your baby is hungry. Here, she will let you know by nestling against your breast, sucking or opening his or her mouth. Try not to wait for cries because at this point, he or she is already uncomfortable.
Breastfeeding is a big commitment, but an important one for the moms who make it. You are bound to have questions, and that is normal. So talk to your doctor about your concerns.
Female 1 Want to learn more? Check other videos and sources on this site for more information.
Transcription by:
Scribe4you Transcription Services