The benefits of breastfeeding are already well known to mothers. It is said that breast-fed babies have higher immunity, and breast milk contains antiviral and intestinal mucosa maturation factors. In particular, it is said that the beneficial bacteria in the mother's body are transmitted to the child through breast milk, which is said to have the effect of preventing atopy and allergic diseases.

One of the well-known strengths of breastfeeding is the psychological bond that a mother develops while breastfeeding her baby. If so, how can you start with breastfeeding?

5 Tips to Keep in Mind

1. Feed frequently for 1 to 2 weeks after birth.

For maternal success, frequent feeding during the newborn period is important. It is difficult to create a feeding period because the size of the stomach of a baby 1 to 2 weeks old is very small. It is an important time when the mother's milk supply increases, so feed the baby frequently. Breastfeeding is very effective in increasing breast milk production. The specific meaning of 'often' is to breastfeed whenever your baby wants.

2. Study the right posture for breastfeeding.

Just like studying childbirth breathing before childbirth, it is of great help if you study the correct posture to feed your child right after childbirth. The most important thing in breastfeeding posture is the mother's posture. It is good posture for the mother to relax her shoulders, keep her back straight, and have a feeding cushion at her own chest height.

If her mom gets it right first, it'll make it easier for her baby to bite her nipple deeply and take it into their mouth all the way to the areola. If they only bites the nipple, it will make it difficult for the baby to suckle, and the chance of biting the nipple increases the risk of injury. When your baby bites the nipple deeply to the areola, the milk drains well, and the baby is happy to eat.

3. Learn the signals that suggest your child is full.

One of the concerns of mothers who are breastfeeding is whether their child is getting enough intake. Because breastfeeding is difficult to measure accurately, it can be confirmed by urine output, weight growth, and the baby's response.

If the baby has eaten enough, their clenched fists will come loose, and their expression will soften a little. Also, watch their temples move; they should make a gurgling and gurgling sound while breastfeeding. If your baby feels satisfied and not bloated after breastfeeding, it's a sign that they are full.

4. Breastfeed immediately after childbirth.

Breastfeeding experts advise breastfeeding immediately after childbirth. Babies also learn to suck on the bottle differently than their mother's nipple. The bottle comes out when you press it with your tongue, and the nipple comes out when you lick the areola with your tongue. That's why breastfeeding immediately after childbirth can help your child start sucking correctly, which they know instinctively.

If you open the mouths of babies who have been fed only from a bottle for a long time, you can find the tip of their tongue on the roof of their mouth. The reason your baby's tongue is raised is because the baby's tongue is pressed against the nipple of the bottle and squeezed. Once you get used to this practice, your baby will have a hard time drinking your milk. If you try enough breastfeeding right after giving birth, your baby will drink from the bottle as if they were sucking their mother's milk.

5. Enlist support from those around you.

In order to succeed in breastfeeding, the support of those around you is essential. Since a lot of time is spent on breastfeeding in terms of life after childbirth, husbands and family should support the mother when breastfeeding. It's important to support them so they can get through this time. The support and support of her family and friends boosts the mother's parenting confidence; that confidence helps her get out of her depression and build a positive bond with her baby.

#Parenting advice from Director Hyang-Hwa Kwon

A mother's milk supply is always inconsistent. It can shrink a little when you're tired and stretch a little when you're feeling good. There may be plenty in the morning and not enough in the evening. You may have many nap days and fewer busy days. In fact, mothers are sensitive to changes in the amount of milk, and they are often fascinated by the changing reactions of their babies.

Let go of your impatience and sensitivity for a moment. Do not forget that the mother's milk production increases gradually when the four principles of proper and nutritious meals, adequate sleep, low stress, and lactation are maintained.

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Author: Kwon Hyang-hwa
- Newborn Childcare Coach
- IBCLC International Breastfeeding Specialist
- Worked as the director of a postpartum care center for 10 years.