Breastfeeding has many benefits for both the newborn and the mother. For new moms, breastfeeding your little one is an unforgettable experience. To provide maximum breastfeeding, it's good for moms to know the newborn breastfeeding schedule.
According to IDAI, babies are recommended to be exclusively breastfed for the first 6 months of life, and breastfeeding is continued with complementary foods, ideally for the first two years of life.
Protection against infection is greatest during exclusively breastfed infants' first few months of life. The longer a baby is breastfed, the stronger the protective effect.
Newborn Breastfeeding Schedule
Maintaining a newborn breastfeeding schedule is essential to ensure optimal growth and development. Here are some guidelines regarding breastfeeding schedules for newborns:
1. Breastfeeding Frequency
Breastfeeding has a supply and demand pattern. So, you should breastfeed according to demand. In the first weeks, breastfeeding on demand is highly recommended. Because if you reduce the amount of breastfeeding, your body will also reduce the milk supply available in the breast.
Usually, newborns will suckle about 8-12 times in 24 hours. Don't let your baby go too long without feeding. If the baby sleeps too long, wake them up and offer breastmilk every 2-3 hours, especially in the first week.
2. Duration of Breastfeeding
During each breastfeeding session, allow the baby to suckle on one breast until he stops on his own, usually about 10-15 minutes, then offer the other breast. Don't rush, give baby time to decide when he is done feeding to ensure he gets hindmilk (the fat and calorie-rich end of the milk).
3. Signs of Baby Hunger
Babies will give signals if they are hungry. Signs of a hungry baby include sucking a finger, opening the mouth, squirming, or making sounds. Don't wait until the baby cries, moms. Usually crying is a sign of hunger that is too late. It is better to breastfeed before the baby starts crying.
4. Breast milk production
Breastfeeding regularly can help increase and maintain milk production. Make sure you get enough rest and drink plenty of fluids to support milk production. As long as the body is well hydrated, it can help launch breast milk for your little one.
5. Schedule Changes Over Time
Newborns need to adapt to their environment including breastfeeding schedules. As the baby grows, the frequency of breastfeeding may decrease, but the duration of breastfeeding may be longer as the baby becomes more efficient at feeding.
How to Breastfeed Well and Correctly
Several things breastfeeding mothers should pay attention to. Breastfeeding may seem easy, but it can be difficult if done incorrectly. If the position and attachment are not correct, the breastfeeding process will become painful for the mother and the baby will not get enough milk. As a result, moms' nipples will chafe and the baby will be uncomfortable during breastfeeding.
In addition, breastfeeding not only provides high-value milk content for the baby's health but also creates a strong emotional connection between mother and baby, which will be carried over, even though the mother is no longer breastfeeding. So, you should know how to breastfeed properly.
- Comfortable Position: Use a breastfeeding position that is comfortable for both mom and baby, such as the cradle, football hold, or side-lying position.
- Good Attachment: Ensure the correct attachment of the baby's mouth to the breast to prevent nipple chafing and ensure the baby is getting good milk.
Following a good newborn feeding schedule and paying attention to the baby's signs of hunger and comfort can help with optimal growth and development. Do not hesitate to seek help from a health professional if there are any problems or concerns regarding breastfeeding. (Aq/MKK)
Komen
250