A New Beginning

COLOSTRUM Facts about colostrum: • Commonly called “liquid gold,” it can be yellow to clear • Present in breasts since late pregnancy • Very high in protein • Easily digested • Beneficial in loosening mucus in the baby • Serves as a laxative and helps clear the baby’s intestinal tract • Provides protection by containing antibodies and passive immunities • Coats the stomach and intestines and protects against any invading organisms EXCLUSIVE BREASTFEEDING Exclusively breastfeeding while in the hospital will give you and your baby the best start. • Keep your baby with you, learn as much as you can, and practice skin-to-skin as much as possible. • Offer frequent opportunities for your baby to breastfeed by responding early to your baby’s feeding cues. • Keep your baby close for nighttime feedings when prolactin levels are highest. • Unless prescribed by your baby’s health care provider, giving unnecessary formula to a breastfeeding baby may have disadvantages; especially to your milk supply. Unless medically indicated, there is no reason to give formula. • Colostrum, the first milk you make, is easily digested and produced in just the right amount for your baby’s small stomach. The more colostrum your baby gets, the more the baby stools, which is an important sign your baby is getting enough breast milk. • After feedings, hand express and give any extra colostrum to your baby. • Your mature milk will transition in sooner, the more frequent your baby feeds.

Breastfeeding

Mothers who keep their babies in their room and breastfeed at night get more rest and better quality sleep. Many moms feel like they have gotten off to a better start when they are able to exclusively breastfeed while in the hospital, and they go home feeling more confident.

In their most recent policy statement, “The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) reaffirms its recommendation of exclusive breastfeeding for about 6 months, followed by continued breastfeeding as complementary foods are introduced, with the continuation of breastfeeding for 1 year or longer as mutually desired by mother and infant.” (AAP, 2012)

97

Chapter 9: Breastfeeding