To raise mothers' awareness of the importance of breastfeeding, the world celebrates World Breastfeeding Week every year from August 1 to 7.
Initiated by the United Nations Emergency Children's Fund (UNICEF) and the World Health Organization (WHO), World Breastfeeding Week has now been held in more than 120 countries, including Indonesia.
Not just to raise awareness, World Breastfeeding Week also aims to promote the benefits, share knowledge, and encourage mothers to breastfeed.
The reason is that exclusive breastfeeding for newborns until the age of 6 months or 2 years is something that you should not miss.
Now, as a mother, you need to know how to breastfeed a newborn baby properly so that your little one gets optimal milk intake.
Especially if this is your first breastfeeding experience, it might feel a little confusing at first.
So, let's take a look at how to breastfeed a newborn and other things you need to know below!
How to Breastfeed a Newborn
Not only is breastfeeding beneficial for your child's growth and development, but it also plays a role in keeping your body healthy and enhancing the bond between mother and baby.
In honor of World Breastfeeding Week, let's take a look at how to breastfeed a newborn and what you should know when you first start breastfeeding.
1. Early Breastfeeding Initiation (IMD)
How to breastfeed a newborn begins with Early Breastfeeding Initiation or IMD, which is when your little one is first brought into your arms after being born.
Aside from the fact that the first milk (colostrum) contains the best nutrients for the baby, IMD is known to be a key step to make it easier for you to start the breastfeeding process in the future.
Remember, the breastfeeding positions newborns must be correct. This is done by holding the newborn close to your chest and then positioning the child for breastfeeding.
2. No Need to Panic If Breast Milk Production is Low
Usually, in the first days after childbirth, breast milk production is still low. If so, you don't need to worry.
This is because as your baby gets older, the volume of your milk will also increase. You can continue to breastfeed your baby to trigger your body to produce more milk.
3. Getting to Know What May Happen
If this is your first time breastfeeding, you need to know that there are various possible problems.
Generally, breastfeeding moms will face issues, such as breast tenderness and hardness. But you don't need to worry. Because this is quite normal.
Well, to prevent hard breasts, it is recommended that you continue to breastfeed as often as possible in both breasts or compress them with warm water. You can also do cold compresses if your breasts are red or feel warm.
4. Mothers Can Still Breastfeed Despite Minor Illness
Then, how to breastfeed a newborn when the mother is sick? Don't worry, when experiencing minor illnesses, such as fever, you are usually still allowed to breastfeed your baby safely.
5. Consult an Expert
Another important way to breastfeed a newborn is to consult an expert, such as a midwife or lactation consultant (IBCLC).
If you are breastfeeding for the first time, there is nothing wrong with asking for practical help or guidance in breastfeeding your baby.
Those were some important ways of breastfeeding a newborn, along with other essential things you need to know.
Your first breastfeeding experience can be exciting, but it often comes with challenges and sacrifices.
The good news is that, over time, the process will become smoother and more comfortable. So, try not to worry too much since progress will come with patience.
To support your body during this phase, make sure your fluid intake is always sufficient by drinking enough water every day.
Also, do not forget to choose quality drinking water like AQUA, so you can get optimal benefits while breastfeeding. That is why having AQUA Gallon at home is a smart choice!
With AQUA Gallon, you can also save money, priced at only around IDR 1,000 per liter.
That means with just IDR 19,000, you already get the 19-liter AQUA Gallon.
Even better, AQUA Gallon uses environmentally friendly packaging, designed to be used repeatedly.
The lid is made with double injection technology to ensure the minerals inside remain pure and protected.
You can find AQUA at nearby stores or supermarkets at an affordable price.
So, let’s drink #AQUADULU and feel the goodness in every refreshing drop, starting now!
