Lets all Protect, Promote and Support Breastfeeding

World Breastfeeding Week (WBW) is an annual celebration which is held every year from 1st to 7th August in more than 120 countries. Organized each year by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA), the World Health Organization (WHO), and UNICEF. The week came up with the goal to promote exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life which provides many health benefits both to the mother and baby, provide nutrients and protect from deadly diseases and infection and at the same time help in development and growth of the child.

Shishu Child Care Clinic in an attempt to be breastfeeding friendly has a private demarcated space in the clinic for breastfeeding by mothers to their new borns.

Here we are discussing some doubts mothers have during breast feeding.

When should I start breastfeeding?

Most healthy new born babies are ready to breastfeed within 1 hour of birth. Babies delivered by LSCS can feed as soon as mother has recovered from anaesthesia.

How to start breastfeeding?

As soon as you are ready to feed your baby hold your baby against your skin (Skin-to-skin contact). This will trigger reflexes in your baby that help your baby to latch on your breast. For more help contact lactation counsellor

How do I know that my baby is hungry?

When your baby is hungry the baby will be awake, suck on their hand and lips, clench their fists and try to root to the breast. Crying is a late sign.

How long should one breastfeed session last?

There is no set time for feedings. They may be 15 to 20 minutes per breast. They may be shorter or longer.

How frequently should I breastfeed in a day?

Demand feed your baby. Feed your baby when your baby shows signs of hunger.
Babies will generally feed between 8 to 12 times each day. If they have a longer break between feeds they often have several feeds close together (cluster feeding). Babies need to feed even at night

How do I know if my baby is being fed adequately?

You can be confident that your baby is receiving enough breast milk if your baby has six to eight wet cloth nappies in a day and their urine is pale in colour, looks alert when awake, has a moist mouth and gaining weight adequately

Till when should I breastfeed?

Exclusive breastfeeding should be done for six months. After which complimentary feeds should be introduced. After 2 year of age the child may continue to breast feed as long as you and the baby want to continue although the nutrient is very low.

Shishu Child Care Clinic in an attempt to be breastfeeding friendly has a private demarcated space in the clinic for breastfeeding by mothers to their new borns.

Dr. Ankit Agarwal (MD Pediatrics. Newborn and Child Specialist) has a Fellowship in Neonatology and is trained at Fortis La Femme, New Delhi is an expert in counselling and training for breastfeeding and is very vocal for promotion of breastfeeding. For more information or for appointment call 90935-90936