- Prolactin is released from anterior pituitary gland.
- Lactation is established when oxytocin is released from the posterior pituitary and cause let-down reflex.
- Colostrum is secreted by 2-3 days post partum.
General Principles in Breast Feeding:
- Oxytocin causes uterus to contract and uterine cramping may be experienced.
- Wash breast daily without using soap.
- With flat nipples, nipple-rolling is done.
- Avoid medications and gas forming foods.
- Calories should be increased to 3000 per day or additional 500 to normal caloric needs per day and 1000ml additional fluids.
- Baby's stool will be watery, frequent and light yellow in color.
- Start with the breast used on last feeding.
- Stimulate rooting to start and finish each session by burping the baby.
- As soon as both mother and baby is stable, even if its on delivery table.
- Regular and sustained sucking at the breast is 8-10 times per day.
- Gradually increase time of breastfeeding for each breast with subsequent feedings.
- Baby will develop their own schedule of feeding.
1. Engorgement
- More frequent Breastfeeding
- Apply warm packs before feeding and ice packs between feeding.
- Nipple-rolling before feeding.
- Wear breast shield before feeding, which would act as a vacuum when baby suck and consequently pull nipple out.
- Lubricate Nipple with A&D ointment after feeding.
- Rotate feeding position
- Expose Nipple to air for 10-20 minutes every after feeding.
- Increase frequency of feeding and make the interval longer.
