Everyone tells you that breastfeeding is best - but why?

• It contains all the nutrients baby will need.


• Breast milk contains antibodies which help baby to fight infections.


• It is more digestible, so baby is less likely to suffer from
  diarrhoea or other stomach upsets.

Breastfeeding is good for mum too.

• It burns off about 500 calories a day by using your body's fat which
  was put on to help you breastfeed.


• Breastfeeding triggers the retraction of the womb.

It's also free! When you think of how much nappies are
going to cost, don't turn down a freebie!

How Do I Do
It?

Your baby is born with a 'sucking reflex' which is especially strong in
the first few minutes of life.

Problems

• 
  

  Engorgement - Most common 3 or 4 days after
  birth. Your breasts overfill with milk, making them feel heavy and hard.
  Your milk production will probably settle down after a few days; try
  expressing a little milk before feeds.



• 
  

  Blocked duct - maybe caused by engorgement; try
  offering the affected breast first when baby's sucking is strongest -
  this may clear the blockage. Keep your nipples clean and wear a
  well-fitting bra.



• 
  

  Sore nipple - Can be caused by baby incorrectly
  latching on. Try rubbing milk on the nipple after a feed.

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