4 Things To Know To Be Successful

August 19, 2016

Breastfeeding Success

As I work with breastfeeding women, one of the most frequent comments I hear is “how can I be sure I will be successful so I can meet my breastfeeding goal?”  Well, there are four key steps that have been identified as being important in getting breastfeeding off to a good start and help with continued breastfeeding:

1. Breastfeed within the first hour after delivery and skin-to-skin contact.  It is recommended to have this time for 1-2 hours after delivery as is allows the baby to “self-attach” which has been shown to help eliminate breastfeeding problems.

2. Breastfeed exclusively – breastfed babies do not need any other foods or drinks, including water, for at least the first six months.

3. Breastfeed when baby is showing hunger signs such as sucking on fingers or licking lips.  They should feed for as long as they want.

4. Avoid using bottles, pacifiers, and nipple shields.  These can cause baby not to take the breast well thus not getting milk well.

If you do run into unexpected problems while breastfeeding, don’t be afraid to ask for help there are many professionals who have who have dedicated themselves to be a support and resource such as: Hillcrest WIC staff, Lactation consultants, LaLeche League, nurses, dietitian, and physicians.

Cynthia Kaczinski, RD, WIC Program Manager