Breastfeeding is the term used for the process of feeding the neonate with breast milk. It helps the mother and the baby get closer with each other.

It is a difficult and easy process at the same time. For a new mum there are a lot of questions that need answers. For example:

-When is the right time to feed the baby?

-Is my breast milk sufficient for the baby?

-How many times per day should i feed my baby?

-How can i understand that my baby is hungry?

We are going to share with you some facts and information that are going to answer your questions and hopefully make this process easier for you and your baby.

The production of breast milk goes in three different stages:

-The first stage is the production of colostrum. It is a thick, usually yellow substance produced in a small amount, but that contains a lot of proteins and vitamins. It coats the intestine and stimulates the first bowel movements. Even if it is produced in small amounts, it is enough for your baby.

–The second phase is the phase during which your body produces transitional milk. It is usually produced the third or the fourth day after giving birth. It contains a lot of fats and calories.

-The third and the last phase is the phase of mature milk production. It is a thick, white substance that contains all the necessary nutrients for your baby.

Many medical experts recommend to only breastfeed your baby for the first six months. After the sixth month you may add solid food, but do not interrupt breastfeeding.

Breastfeeding is superior to infant formula. Use infant formula only when breastfeeding is not possible.

How many times per day you should breastfeed?

As your baby grows, the need for breast milk changes. A newborn needs eight to twelve feedings per day. That means you should breastfeed your baby every two to three hours.

After the first month you should breastfeed your baby seven to nine times per day.

As your baby gets older, the number of feedings per day decreases.

There is no need to put an “alarm” to know when you should nurse. It is your baby that is going to tell you that he/she is hungry.

If your baby is hungry he/she:

-is going to cry;

-is going to lick the lip or suck the tongue;

-is going to open the mouth;

-is going to search the source of the food.

The importance of breastfeeding for your baby

Breast milk contains: white blood cells, steam cells, beneficial bacteria, antibodies, enzymes, hormones and other substances that help to fight infections and to prevent diseases.

Breastfeeding your baby means:

• Lower risk for gastro-intestinal infections;
• Lower risk for middle ear infections;
• Lower risk for urinary tract infections;
• Lower risk for respiratory infections;
• Lower risk for diabetes type I and II in childhood or later;
• A strong immune system;
• Healthy growth and development.

The importance of breastfeeding for the mother

A woman that breastfeeds:

• Loses weight faster, because during breastfeeding she burns at least 400 calories per day;
• Has a lower risk for ovarian cancer;
• Has a lower risk for premenopausal breast cancer;

It also assists the uterus to return to its pre-pregnancy state faster.

Facts about breastfeeding

1. Almost 75% of all mums produce more milk in their right breast.
2. The WHO recommends continuing breastfeeding up to two years of age.
3. Sweden has one of the highest rates of breastfeeding: 98%.
4. Breast milk makes babies sleepy.
5. Breastfeeding burns 400 – 600 calories per day.
6. Babies have a powerful sense of smell. They can identify their mother breast milk.
7. The milk production stimulation hormone, prolactin, is also responsible for suppressing ovulation.