Responsive Breastfeeding
The video emphasizes the importance of responsive breastfeeding, where mothers respond to their babies’ feeding cues instead of adhering to a strict schedule. This approach supports the baby’s nutritional and emotional needs, promotes brain development, and strengthens the mother-baby bond. Early signs of hunger include lip-licking, finger-sucking, and rooting, with crying being a late sign. Feeding at the first signs of hunger is most effective.
New-borns need to feed frequently to support their rapid growth and feel secure. Being close to the baby allows mothers to respond promptly to feeding cues, which helps the baby feel safe and promotes healthy development. Frequent feeding also stimulates milk production, essential for maintaining a steady milk supply. In the first 24 hours, it’s common for babies to feed three to four times, but by 24 hours, they should feed at least eight times a day, although some may feed more frequently.
Responsive breastfeeding also benefits the mother. If the breasts feel full, initiating a feed can prevent blocked ducts or mastitis and support milk production. If any concerns arise, mothers should reach out to their midwife or maternity support worker for guidance.
Good attachment is essential for comfortable breastfeeding and efficient milk transfer. When a baby is well-attached, they take a large portion of the breast into their mouth, positioning the nipple at the back of their mouth on the soft palate. The key principles of good positioning can be remembered using the acronym CHIN: C for close, meaning holding the baby close for a good latch; H for head free, allowing the baby to tilt their head back and open their mouth wide; I for inline, keeping the baby’s head and body aligned; and N for nose to nipple, where touching the nipple to the baby’s nose encourages a wide-open mouth.
There are different breastfeeding positions, but the same four principles apply regardless of the position. Most breastfeeding issues stem from incorrect latching, which can usually be corrected with support.
New-borns have small stomachs that can only hold 5-7 millilitres of milk per feed initially. Colostrum, the first milk produced, is rich in nutrients and produced in small amounts but provides everything the baby needs in the early days. As the baby grows, milk volume increases. By about two weeks of age, the baby’s stomach can hold 60-80 millilitres per feed. Signs of good feeding include the baby swallowing as they drink and an increase in the number of wet and dirty nappies. During the first 24-48 hours, babies may have 2-3 wet nappies, which should increase to at least six per day by day five. The baby’s stool will change from black to yellow between days four and six, with at least two poos per day being typical.
Weight monitoring is another way to ensure the baby is feeding well. It’s normal for babies to lose some weight in the first few days but they should regain their birth weight by about two weeks if feeding well. If a baby goes more than 24 hours without a poo or shows signs of not getting enough milk, parents should seek advice from a midwife or maternity support worker.