This article provides a comprehensive guide to establishing natural nutrition for a newborn, covering all stages from the first latch to the introduction of solid foods. You will learn how to make the latching process painless, ensure stable milk production, and maintain psychological comfort in the family during this important period.
Nature has created a unique feeding mechanism that cannot be fully replicated artificially. Breast milk is a “living” tissue, the composition of which constantly changes to adapt to the child’s needs at any given moment. It contains not only proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, but also live cells, antibodies, hormones, and enzymes.
For the baby’s health, breast milk acts as the first ‘vaccination,’ protecting the still-developing body from infections and building strong immunity for years to come. Statistics confirm these advantages with numbers. According to research published in the reputable journal The Lancet, breastfeeding reduces the risk of children developing obesity in the future by 13–24%. The likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes in people who were breastfed is reduced by about 35%. According to WHO, such children also suffer less from respiratory infections and allergic reactions.
For the mother, this process is no less important. It promotes quick recovery of the body after childbirth, reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and some types of cancer. Moreover, it is the simplest way to soothe the baby and establish a deep emotional bond with them, which will last a lifetime.
To understand how to establish the process, it’s important to grasp its mechanics. Two main hormones are responsible for milk production: prolactin and oxytocin. Prolactin is called the “production hormone,” as it prompts breast cells to produce milk. Oxytocin is responsible for releasing it from the ducts—it’s the “hormone of love” and relaxation.
The level of prolactin is directly related to how often the baby is breastfed. The more stimulation, the more milk will be available for the next feeding. Oxytocin is highly sensitive to the mother’s mood. If a woman is frightened, stressed, or in pain, oxytocin can be “blocked,” making it difficult for the baby to access the milk, even if there’s plenty in the breast.
That’s why it’s important to create a calm environment. Warm drinks, pleasant music, and confidence in your abilities help oxytocin to do its job. Remember that breasts are paired organs, and stimulation of one side often causes milk to release from the other, which is a completely normal physiological sign.
Establishing lactation is a skill that both mother and newborn need to learn. We have highlighted seven key stages that will help make this journey as smooth as possible.
Step 1. The Right Start in the Maternity Ward
The first hours after birth are crucial. Ideally, the baby is placed on the mother’s abdomen immediately after birth so they can independently find the nipple. At this moment, colostrum is released—a thick, yellowish liquid incredibly rich in immunoglobulins.
Even a few drops of colostrum in the first day of life are tremendously important for populating the baby’s gut with the right microflora. It’s important not to give the baby supplement feeding from a bottle during these days, unless there is a strict medical indication. The use of substitutes can lead to the baby becoming lazy about breastfeeding, as it’s easier to get nourishment from a nipple.
If for some reason latching is not immediately possible, the woman needs to start hand-expressing colostrum within a few hours after delivery. This will signal the body that lactation is needed and help avoid problems with the arrival of milk on the 3rd to 4th day.
Step 2. Latching technique and positioning at the breast
This is the most crucial stage that determines the absence of pain. Proper latching is the key to keeping the nipple healthy, and ensuring the baby gets enough milk. The baby should latch on not only to the nipple itself but also to a large part of the areola.
With the correct latch, the baby’s mouth is wide open, the lower lip is turned outward, and the nose and chin are tightly pressed against the breast skin. The mother should not feel sharp pain. If discomfort persists throughout the feeding, it means the latch is incorrect. In this case, gently slide a pinky into the corner of the baby’s mouth to break the vacuum and try to latch correctly again.
It’s important to ensure that the baby’s head and torso are in a straight line. The baby should be turned with the entire body towards the mother, not just the head. This facilitates swallowing and makes sucking more effective. Remember, proper latching prevents breast cracks and provides comfort for both participants in the process.
Step 3. Organizing on-demand feeding
Forget about the advice of feeding strictly by the clock. Modern medicine recommends offering the breast at any sign of the baby’s restlessness. This can be searching with the mouth, sucking on fists, or characteristic grunting. Crying is already a final stage of hunger.
On-demand feeding allows to:
Do not limit the time at the breast. The baby will let go of the nipple when they are full. It is important to understand that at the beginning of feeding, there is “foremilk,” which is rich in water and sugars, and at the end, the “hindmilk,” which is fattier and more satisfying. To ensure the baby receives complete nutrition, they should spend as much time at the breast as they need.
Step 4. Choosing the optimal resting position
Successful breastfeeding is impossible without the mother’s comfort. If the mother’s back or arms get tired, she will want to finish the session quickly. Experiment with different positions, using pillows for support.
It’s important to find several options to alternate between. This helps to evenly empty different parts of the breast. The most popular positions are the classic “cradle,” “football hold” (especially convenient after a Cesarean section), and “side-lying” for nighttime rest.
Try using a special nursing pillow to relieve stress from your lower back. When a mother is comfortable, her state is transmitted to the baby, and feeding goes more smoothly. Make sure you don’t have to lean towards the baby — it’s better to raise the baby higher to the breast.
Step 5. Hygiene and gentle breast care
Many mothers out of old habit wash their breasts with soap before each feeding. This should be strictly avoided. Soap removes the natural protective lubricant, leading to the appearance of microcracks on the nipples. A regular daily shower without using aggressive agents on the areola area is sufficient.
If the nipple becomes sensitive, after feeding you can leave a drop of milk on it and let it dry in the air — this is the best preventive measure. Special creams with pure lanolin, which do not need to be washed off before breastfeeding, also have beneficial properties.
It is also important to choose the right underwear. It should be made of cotton, without underwires, and fit perfectly. Tight bras can compress ducts, often leading to blockages. Regularly changing breast pads is also necessary to prevent bacteria from breeding in a moist environment.
Step 6. Support the Woman’s Psychological State
The mother’s emotional state is the foundation of successful lactation. Often, initial difficulties cause fear and insecurity, which immediately affects milk production. It is important for the woman to feel family support and not take on all the household chores in the first few weeks after childbirth.
Sleep when the baby sleeps. Chronic sleep deprivation is the main enemy of oxytocin. Remember, your main task right now is recovery and feeding the baby. All other matters can wait. If you feel overwhelmed, do not hesitate to seek help from a lactation consultant or psychologist.
Sometimes mothers feel guilty because they think they don’t have enough milk. In reality, true hypogalactia (inability to produce milk) is extremely rare. In most cases, it’s enough to feed more often and get more rest. Your calmness will help the baby feel safe.
Step 7. Daily Routine and Delegation of Duties
To prevent motherhood from turning into Groundhog Day, it’s important to organize household matters effectively. Delegate cooking, cleaning, and taking older children for walks to your husband or relatives. Women who try to be perfect homemakers during lactation quickly burn out.
It’s important to find time for yourself, even if it’s just 15 minutes a day. A warm bath or a solitary walk can help you reset. The more rested a mother feels, the better her interaction with the child will be. Remember, breastfeeding is not self-sacrifice; it’s a natural part of life.
Pay attention to organizing your space. Ensure that water and a light snack are always by your feeding area. Strong thirst often occurs during feeding, which is a normal bodily reaction to hormone release. Organizing your space will help you spend time with your baby as comfortably as possible.
There is a myth that a nursing woman must subsist on buckwheat and water. In reality, the diet should be varied and wholesome. A mother’s diet directly influences her own well-being and energy levels, not just milk composition. The composition of milk remains stable, even if the mother’s diet is not perfect — the body will draw resources from her own stores.
Include vegetables, fruits, meat, fish, and grains in your menu. You should only limit those foods that have a clearly observed negative reaction in your child. Remember that through milk, the baby is introduced to different flavors, which will ease the introduction of complementary foods at six months of age.
It’s important to consume a sufficient amount of fluids. Drink according to thirst, without forcing yourself to pour liters of tea with milk, which, contrary to stereotypes, does not increase milk quantity. A balanced approach without unnecessary restrictions is essential for the mother’s health.
Even with perfect preparation, problems may arise. One of the most common is lactostasis (milk stasis). In this case, a painful lump appears in the breast and fever may occur.
To solve the problem, it is necessary to:
If you notice that the situation doesn’t improve within a day or the pain becomes unbearable, you should urgently consult a doctor. Another issue is nipple cracks. They always signal an improper latch. In such a situation, consultation with a specialist who can help correct the technique will be beneficial. Remember, seeking timely medical advice can protect you from complications like mastitis.
It’s important not to stop breastfeeding if the mother is ill. Through milk, the baby receives antibodies to the mother’s illness, helping them not to get infected or to endure the illness more easily. If you’ve been prescribed medication, check its compatibility with breastfeeding—most modern medications are permissible.
In the modern world, there are many devices that make a mother’s life easier. However, they should be used wisely.
| Accessory | Purpose | What to pay attention to |
| Breast pump | Pumping when separated from the baby | Should be comfortable, not injure the breast |
| Nipple shields | Protection for damaged nipples | Can reduce breast stimulation, use temporarily |
| Storage bags | Freezing milk for future use | Sterility and secure closure |
| Nursing pillow | Support for the baby and mom’s back | Density of the filling and removable cover |
Sometimes supplementary feeding may be needed if the milk supply temporarily decreases. In such cases, it’s better to use a Supplemental Nursing System (SNS) instead of a bottle. This allows the baby to continue stimulating the breasts while receiving nourishment at the same time. Remember, any accessories are just aids, not replacements for natural contact.
If you decide to use pumping, do it gently. Hands should be clean, and movements should mimic the baby’s sucking. Excessive pumping can lead to hyperlactation, which also causes discomfort. Always consult an experienced physician before using medications to stimulate lactation.
According to WHO recommendations, it is advisable to continue breastfeeding until 2 years and beyond at the desire of the mother and child. During the first year of life, milk remains an important source of nutrients.
After 6 months, complementary feeding begins, but breastfeeding sessions remain frequent. Gradually, the number of nursing sessions will reduce naturally. A gentle cessation of lactation is a process that takes several months and does not traumatize the baby’s psyche.
Abruptly stopping breastfeeding, binding your breasts, or leaving your child is not recommended. It is dangerous for a woman’s health and stressful for the baby. It is better to gradually eliminate one feeding per week, allowing the body to decrease milk production smoothly. Your condition and the child’s readiness are the main guidelines in this matter.
How often should I offer the breast to a newborn?
In the first weeks of life, the number of feedings can reach 12-20 times a day. This is necessary to stimulate lactation and meet the child’s need for contact with the mother.
What should I do if the baby sucks on the nipple for too long?
If the latch is correct and the mother is comfortable, there is no need to limit the time. However, if you feel pain, you should check how the baby is latching onto the nipple. A properly organized process does not cause skin damage.
Is it necessary to pump after each feeding?
With on-demand feeding, additional pumping is not required. The body will adjust the amount of milk on its own. Too much pumping can lead to an excess of milk, which can be difficult to manage.
How to tell if the baby is getting enough nutrition?
The main signs are stable weight gain (at least 500-600 g per month in the first six months) and the number of urinations (10-12 times a day). If these indicators are normal, the feeding is sufficient.
Can a breastfed infant be given water?
Before introducing complementary foods (up to 6 months), a baby exclusively on breastfeeding does not need water, even in hot weather. Breast milk consists of 85-90% water.
When is it time to see a doctor?
If you notice severe breast redness, feel sharp pain that doesn’t go away after starting sucking, or have a high fever — do not delay visiting a doctor. Also, specialist help is needed if the baby is not gaining weight well.
It is important to remember that every mother goes through her own unique journey. Breastfeeding is not just nutrition; it is a guarantee of your baby’s health and emotional well-being for many years. Surround yourself with care, believe in your abilities, and this period will become one of the most tender memories in your life.
Protect your hands and back, use comfortable positions. Remember that the mother’s condition directly affects the child’s behavior. If you need to take a break — take it. Let feeding be a joy, and may every minute spent together strengthen your bond. After all, the first years of a child’s life fly by very quickly, and it’s important to live them in harmony and love.
Your health and peace of mind are the most valuable gifts you can give your child. Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor or lactation specialist questions if something goes wrong. Together, you will surely overcome any difficulties. May the lactation period bring you only positive emotions and help raise a healthy and happy person.Important! If you notice signs of mastitis or experience significant discomfort that doesn’t go away with a change of position, do not self-treat and do not use warm compresses without consulting a healthcare professional. Timely consultation with a specialist is the best way to maintain breastfeeding.
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