The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding starting within the first hour after birth and continuing until the sixth month of life. However, only 44% of babies are fed this way. One reason for this may be that some women find breastfeeding difficult and frustrating because they don’t know the proper technique.
This post will be divided into two parts. In this first part, we’ll explore common mistakes to avoid when breastfeeding. In part 2, we’ll focus on how to breastfeed properly.
In this first part, we’ll explore common mistakes to avoid when breastfeeding. In part 2, we’ll focus on how to breastfeed properly.
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Improper Breastfeeding Technique
Common breastfeeding mistakes include:
1. Improper Latch:
- The baby sucking only on the nipple rather than taking in part of the areola (dark part of the breast surrounding the nipple) is a shallow latch.
- This can cause nipple pain, poor milk transfer, and potential nipple damage.
2. Incorrect Positioning:
- For example, holding the baby too far from the breast, or at an awkward angle
- This can lead to discomfort for both you the mother and baby and result in ineffective feeding.
3. Feeding on One Side Only:
- If you consistently feed the baby from just one breast, it could lead to imbalanced milk production and may prevent the baby from receiving enough hindmilk (the more calorie-rich milk produced later in the feeding).
4. Failing to Ensure Full Emptying of the Breast:
- Not allowing the baby to empty the breast before switching sides can lead to lower milk supply, blocked ducts, or mastitis.
- You’ll know your breasts are empty when they no longer feel engorged or when the baby is satisfied.
5. Restricting Feeding Time:
- Interrupting or limiting feeding time too early can result in the baby not getting enough milk or not stimulating the breast adequately for good milk production.
6. Pushing the Baby’s Head Toward the Breast:
- Forcing the baby’s head into the breast can cause distress and poor latch.
- Instead follow this maxim: breast to baby, not baby to breast.
7. Using Bottles or Pacifiers Too Soon:
- If you introduce artificial nipples before breastfeeding is well-established, this can cause nipple confusion and disrupt the baby’s ability to latch properly.
These are common mistakes many mothers make while breastfeeding. In the next part, we will discuss the proper techniques to ensure a successful breastfeeding experience.
Stay tuned! And here’s a bonus tip for making it this far: Breastfeeding can reduce your risk of breast cancer. For more tips, check out this post!
