Breastmilk
*safe, sterile and always available
* with perfect nutrients to fully sustain the growth and development of the baby from birth up to 6month of age; after 6month still a good source of nutrient when given with adequate complentary foods
* easily digested and absorbed; efficiently used by the baby's immature system
* contains antibodies and substances with protect the babies against infection
*contain fats (DHA) which enhance brain development and intelligence of the baby
* BREASTFEEDING *
*- promote emotional bonding between the baby and mother
*- protects the mothers health against cancer (breast, uterus, ovaries) obesity and post- partum hemorrhage
*- promote early return to pre-pregnancy weight
*-gives the family big financial savings.
* CORRECT BREASTFEEDING TECHNIQUES * helpful tips for the mother
*- support the baby's head an entire body throughout the feeding; the head back and hips should be facing the breast and aligned in a straight manner.
*-maintain the position of the baby in such a way he is face to face; 'chest to chest' 'tummy to tummy' with the mother
*-support the breast with the hand of the opposite arm in a C-HOLD positio: thumb above, 4 fingers under the breast
*-stimulate the infant to open the mouth wide by stroking the corner of the baby's lips; check that the chin touches the breast and the lower lip is turned outward
*- ensure that the baby grasp the entire nipple plus one inch of the surrounding areola.
*-ALLOW THE BABY TO SUCK 15-30 MINUTES PER BREAST TO EXACT BOTH FOREMILK AND HINDMILK.
*-empty the breastbaround 8-10 times or more a day to ensure adequate milk supply
Mae