Breastfeeding dos and don’ts

Breastfeeding Dos

Feed frequently

The more often you breastfeed your baby, the more milk you will produce. The best way to build your supply is to breastfeed on demand -- usually every two hours or less for the average newborn. This may seem very frequent, but remember that it only takes around 90 minutes for babies to digest human milk. The time between feeds will soon lengthen as your baby grows. The best way to tell if your baby is hungry is by looking out for common signs, such as rooting or hand and finger sucking.

Allow baby to finish the breast

It's a good idea to allow your baby to finish feeding from one breast before switching to the other. This will ensure that he gets plenty of calories-rich hindmilk that will help him to feel fuller for longer. Wait until he has come off of the breast naturally and then take the opportunity to burp him before offering the other side.

Cut down on caffeine

While most breastfeeding mothers can drink beverages containing caffeine in moderation, some babies are more sensitive to it than others, especially those under 6 months. If you are drinking more than five cups of coffee per day it is likely that your baby will be affected by the level of caffeine in your milk.

Signs that your baby may be receiving too much caffeine through your milk include excessive fussing, difficulty sleeping for long periods, or 'wide-eyed' alertness. If you think your baby might be being affected by your caffeine intake, try cutting back or avoiding products that contain caffeine [coffee, tea, chocolate and energy drinks] for 2-3 weeks and watch your baby's behaviour for signs of improvement.

If you are used to drinking high amounts of caffeine, remember to cut back slowly to avoid unpleasant side effects , such as headaches.

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