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Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a very special relationship betwen you and your
baby. It can help you feel closer to each other. Your milk is the
best and only food that your baby should have for the first four
to six months of life. Breast milk is much more than just food,
though. It is the best health maintenance system available! Breastfed
babies are protected against many diseases, infections, allergies
and tooth decay. Formula is only a food. It can't keep your baby
from getting sick.
Breastfeeding is also best for you. You're less likely to develop
breast or ovarian cancer. To get off to a good start, ask to nurse
your baby within the first two hours after birth. Then, nurse often;
at least every 1 and 1/2 to 3 hours. The more often the baby nurses,
the more milk you make. Right from the start, encourage your baby
to nurse at least 10-15 minutes per breast. It's best not to give
the baby any bottles or pacifiers for the first four weeks. Giving
a bottle or pacifier too soon can make the baby nurse poorly and
reduce your milk supply.
Breastfeeding may take some time for both you and baby to learn
and become comfortable with, but by six weeks, you'll both be experts
at it!
Our hotline can provide support for your breastfeeding by:
• answering your questions about breastfeeding
• providing printed information on
breastfeeding
• offering referrals to local resources
such as
LaLeche League, WIC, and breastfeeding
consultants
From within Florida call 1-800-451-BABY (2229) on weekdays from
8 a.m. to 11 p.m. or on weekends from 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
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