All About Breast Feeding - The First Six Weeks

Breast milk is not only the best start you can give to your baby, breast milk is also complete food source, containing every nutrient your baby needs, including hormones and disease fighting compounds that are not found in powered milk.  The nutritional composition in breast milk will adjust to your baby's needs as they grow up and develop. Breast milk helps with brain building, and also has infection fighting benefits , which no powered milk can match.  Breast feeding will also help to build a special bond between you and your baby. When breast feeding, your baby thrives on contact, cuddling, and holding,  and of course so do you.

Since breast feeding can take up to hour, sometimes more, you should pick a cosy spot. The surroundings are also very important especially in the first few days of breast feeding when you're still trying to learn.  If you are easily distracted by noise, go someplace quiet.

You should always keep your baby in a position that will not lead to aching arms and back. It is best to support the back of your baby's head with your

hand, although which position you pick depends on what's more comfortable for you.  When supporting your baby, a nursing pillow can be helpful, and there are some very . You should never feed until both you and your baby are relaxed.  Pay attention to how your breast feels when your baby fastens on, as its mouth should cover most of the area below the nipple, and the nipple should be completely in your baby's mouth.

While some new mums adjust to breast feeding easily, other mums find it hard to learn at first. Everyone is different when starting, it depends upon the mother and the situation.  Breast feeding will take a lot practice, you should give yourself as much time as you need so it becomes second nature.  Always take it one day and one feed at a time.  If you are having a bad day, say to yourself that it will get better, and you are not alone. Keep in mind that any problems are normally short-term, and you will be nursing like a natural by your six week postnatal check-up.

The first six weeks will be a learning curve, you can't expect to know everything when you first start, which is where training, practice and patience will really help you . The more you breast feed, the more you will learn. You will also build a bond with your baby - which is something the two of you will always have for the rest of your lives.