STEPS TO SUCCESSFUL BREASTFEEDING

STEP: 01

Initiate breastfeeds within one hour of delivery if the delivery is a full term vaginal delivery

STEP: 02

Room-in the baby with the mother as much time as possible while in the post-natal ward

STEP: 03

Establish all steps of a good latching on by baby to mother’s nipple while in post-natal ward itself.

1. 1. Hold the baby’s buttocks cupped in your hand and the baby’s head against the crook of your elbow
   2. Guide the baby gently towards the nipple
   3. Ensure that baby’s mouth holds the entire nipple and  areola in his/her mouth
   4. Ensure that baby’s nose isn’t squashed against the surface of the breast
   5. The baby’s lower lip should be everted
   6. Mother should be comfortably seated at 45* angle in semi-reclined position and using pillows / cushions to support her forearms / elbows to prevent fatigue, neck pain, shoulder pain, back pain or elbow pain.

STEP: 04

Ensure regular breast emptying to avoid engorgement

STEP: 05

Supervise to prevent development of nipple sores in mother

STEP: 06

Maintain good hydration and nutrition in the mother

STEP: 07

Good pain management in mother to minimize discomfort when breastfeeding

STEP: 08

After discharge from hospital, if possible, continue only breastfeeds.

STEP: 09

Maintain good hydration in mother while at home

1. 1. Passing at least one almost colorless urine in good quantity every 3 hours during the day is one sign of good hydration
   2. Mother may consume any fluid – water, juices, milkshakes, smoothies, laban (buttermilk), soups etc.

STEP: 10

Maintain good nutrition in mother while at home

1. 1. 1. Keep meals wholesome, balanced and well-spaced e.g. breakfast, lunch, tea snacks and dinner all within 3-4 hours of each other
      2. Avoid unnecessary food restrictions
      3. Judicious use of galactogogues by doctor’s advise may help in enhancing breast milk flow