By Sr Teresa Hayward (RN,RM, Lactation Consultant, Infant & Paediatrc Nutritionist, Baby Sleep Consultant)
DEMAND FEED
If baby wakes up and wants to drink before 4hrs then feed, else wake at 4hrs. Feeding between 2 and 4hrs is totally normal. Your baby needs the milk at this age and your breasts also need the stimulation. Breastfeeding is supply and demand – the more you feed, the more milk you will have. Breast pumps and additional formula at this stage will decrease your milk
WAKE YOUR BABY UP BEFORE FEEDS IF THEY HAVENT WOKEN
A drowsy baby won’t feed well or for long. Undress him, change his nappy, talk to him.
KEEP YOUR BABY SUCKING THROUGHOUT THE FEED
Newborns do drift off to sleep during a feed as it is hard work sucking on the breast. “Bug him” to keep him awake. Tickle his feet, use a cold clothe, tickle his cheek, undress him, talk to him. Aim for at least 15-20min of good sucking
LOOK FOR 1 WET NAPPY FOR EACH DAY THE BABY IS OLD UNTIL DAY 6
For example, day 3 = 3 wet nappies, 4 = 4 etc. 2-3 poos is also fine. More is fine, but if less then contact paed or your midwife/lactation consultant
IF YOUR NIPPLES ARE SORE
If you have sore nipples, it is important to have your latch evaluated.
WHEN DO I GET SLEEP
Try and sleep when baby sleeps. Newborns will often feed often at night and sleep during the day. After 2 wks this changes.
DO AS LITTLE AS POSSIBLE AT NIGHT
Feed your baby when he tells you he is hungry. Don’t turn on the lights, don’t change the nappy unless a poo, and don’t talk to baby
FIND YOUR GROOVE
It takes a couple of weeks for you and baby to get into a pattern of feedings and nap times. Go with the flow. He will develop a pattern that works for him.
SET UP A VISIT WITH A MIDWIFE/LACTATION CONSULTANT
This is very important – she will be able to assess your feeding and latch as well as answer any questions you may have. She will also weigh baby and do a physical check of baby.
Breastfeeding is something I am extremely passionate about and will assist all moms with breastfeeding. Feel free to contact me at 0824009501 to book a consult. Rather sort out the problem than just put your baby on formula. A lactation consult will save you money in the long run as formula is expensive.
Alot of Medical aids do cover lactation consults as well and I will happily submit to Discovery, Medscheme or Medshield Medical aids. A lactation consult is an hour consult and costs R400 (cash)
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