The Right and Practical Way to Breastfeed

Although breastfeeding is a natural thing, but not infrequently mothers have difficulty doing it. Don't be discouraged in a hurry. By practicing the following steps for correct breastfeeding, the breastfeeding process will be easier for both mother and baby. Breast milk (ASI) contains more than 200 nutrients that are perfect for meeting baby's needs. Along with growth and development, the nutritional content in breast milk will adjust to the needs of the baby. Giving exclusive breastfeeding for up to 6 months will reduce the risk of diabetes, obesity, asthma, and infectious diseases such as ear infections, pneumonia, or diarrhea. In addition, breast milk is also able to increase the intelligence of infants.

The Right Way to Breastfeed

The following things can be done so that the breastfeeding process is easy and enjoyable for both mother and baby:

• Make sure the mother and baby are relaxed and comfortable

The position of the baby's head must be higher than his body, this is intended to make the baby swallow more easily. Mothers can prop up with their hands or prop up with a pillow. Then, place the baby's nose parallel to the nipple. This will encourage the baby to open his mouth.

• Bringing the baby to the breast

When the baby starts to open his mouth and wants to suckle, then bring the baby closer to the mother's breast. Wait until the mouth is wide open with the tongue down. If the baby has not done so, the mother can guide the baby by gently touching the bottom of the baby's lips with the mother's nipples.

• Correct attachment

The best attachment position for breastfeeding babies is that the baby's mouth is not only attached to the nipple, but in the area under the nipple and as wide as possible. This attachment is one of the important conditions in how to breastfeed properly. Signs that attachment is good is when the mother does not feel pain when the baby is suckling and the baby is getting sufficient milk. Mother can listen when the baby swallows milk.

• Correcting baby's position

If the mother feels pain, remove the attachment by inserting the pinky finger into the mouth and place it between the gums. This movement will make it stop breastfeeding while you can adjust the baby's position. Then, try again for a better attachment. After the attachment is correct, generally the baby will be able to suckle well.

• Time to suckle

Babies suckle about 5 to 40 minutes, depending on their needs. For newborns, babies usually need to be breastfed every 2-3 hours with a feeding time of 15-20 minutes each time. Generally it takes some time for adaptation of mother and baby, so that the breastfeeding process runs smoothly.

Required Breastfeeding Equipment

To make the baby comfortable breastfeeding, mothers are advised to use a special breastfeeding bra that has hooks or buttons on the front that can be opened. For mothers, this will avoid the blockage of the milk ducts or trigger inflammation of the breast tissue (mastitis). To prevent leakage of breast milk on the bra, the mother can use a breast pad (breast pad) tucked in the front of the nipple. For mothers who plan to express milk, mothers can buy a pump that is convenient to use. Often, it takes practice and practice for some time until the mother and baby can work well together during the breastfeeding process. If needed, breastfeeding mothers can seek advice and help from doctors, midwives, or lactation consultants to find out how to breastfeed properly.