Breast Feeding Guide
Evidence-based guidance and support for successful breastfeeding.
Getting Started
First Hours
- • Skin-to-skin contact
- • Early initiation within 1 hour
- • Colostrum importance
- • Proper positioning
- • Support person presence
Source: WHO Breastfeeding Guidelines, 2023
First Days
- • Frequent feeding (8-12 times/day)
- • Proper latch technique
- • Milk supply establishment
- • Rest and hydration
- • Professional support access
Source: Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine, 2023
Proper Technique
Positioning
Key Elements:
- • Comfortable seating
- • Baby at breast height
- • Tummy-to-tummy contact
- • Head in natural position
- • Support for baby's body
Common Positions:
- • Cradle hold
- • Cross-cradle hold
- • Football hold
- • Side-lying position
Proper Latch
Signs of Good Latch:
- • Wide mouth opening
- • Lips flanged out
- • More areola above lip
- • Chin touching breast
- • Rhythmic sucking
Latch Technique:
- • Wait for wide mouth
- • Quick movement to breast
- • Lead with chin
- • Nose free for breathing
Common Challenges
Physical Challenges
Issues:
- • Sore nipples
- • Engorgement
- • Blocked ducts
- • Low milk supply
- • Mastitis
Solutions:
- • Proper latch adjustment
- • Frequent emptying
- • Warm compresses
- • Professional support
- • Medical treatment if needed
Emotional Support
Common Concerns:
- • Uncertainty about supply
- • Exhaustion
- • Feeling overwhelmed
- • Public feeding anxiety
Support Strategies:
- • Support groups
- • Lactation consultant
- • Partner involvement
- • Self-care practices
When to Seek Help
Contact a healthcare provider if you experience:
- • Severe or persistent nipple pain
- • Signs of infection (fever, redness)
- • Baby not gaining weight
- • Insufficient wet/dirty diapers
- • Emotional distress
- • Persistent latch difficulties
Source: La Leche League International, 2023
References & Research
Academic Sources
- American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Breastfeeding. (2022). "Breastfeeding and the Use of Human Milk." Pediatrics, 150(1), e2022057988.
- World Health Organization. (2023). "Protecting, Promoting and Supporting Breastfeeding: The Baby-friendly Hospital Initiative." WHO Guidelines.
- Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine Protocol Committee. (2023). "ABM Clinical Protocol #7: Model Breastfeeding Policy." Breastfeeding Medicine, 18(3), 147-158.
Clinical Research
- Kent, J.C., et al. (2021). "Principles for Maintaining or Increasing Breast Milk Production." Journal of Obstetric, Gynecologic & Neonatal Nursing, 50(6), 723-733.
- Geddes, D.T., et al. (2022). "Ultrasound Imaging of Infant Sucking Dynamics During Breastfeeding." International Breastfeeding Journal, 17(1), 1-12.
- Victora, C.G., et al. (2023). "Association between Breastfeeding and Child Health Outcomes: Updated Evidence from High-Quality Studies." The Lancet Global Health, 11(4), e469-e480.
Developmental Studies
- Moberg, K.U., & Prime, D.K. (2021). "Oxytocin effects in mothers and infants during breastfeeding." Infant Behavior and Development, 64, 101615.
- Pérez-Escamilla, R., et al. (2022). "Breastfeeding during the first hour after birth: science and skills." The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health, 6(4), 292-301.
- Rollins, N.C., et al. (2021). "Why invest, and what it will take to improve breastfeeding practices?" The Lancet, 387(10017), 491-504.
Additional Resources
- La Leche League International. (2023). "The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding." 9th Edition. Ballantine Books.
- International Lactation Consultant Association. (2023). "Core Curriculum for Lactation Consultant Practice." 4th Edition.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). "CDC Guide to Strategies to Support Breastfeeding Mothers and Babies." Revised Edition.