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Creative Child

The Benefits of Feeding Baby Naturally

Benefits of Breastfeeding

The Discipline of Regular Feeding:

The discipline of regular feeding is a good lesson for babies and one of the first they can learn. Irregularity can lead to discontent, digestive upsets and a failure in the supply of milk.

  • Baby should be put to their mother's breast a few hours after birth, for about five minutes. Do this every six-hours during the first 24 hours, if possible, and five times at four-hour intervals for the next 24 hours. 
  • After the first month, a schedule can be set at three to four-hour feedings. Weak and premature babies may need more frequent feeding, however, the three or four hour program suits most babies.
  • Weaning can take place at the age of nine months, unless there is some good reason for not doing so. It is unwise to wean a child during a heat wave or during epidemics and be aware that the actual process usually takes about three weeks.
  • Natural feeding means more to the baby than the healthy satisfaction of hunger: the act of suckling is a bonding experience between mother and child. It helps to supply that atmosphere of security and protection that is so necessary a foundation for the development of nervous stability.

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To breastfeed, a new mom will have to give up a small amount of her freedom. But the lifelong bond being formed between mother and child is worth it.

If you are concerned about breastfeeding or have questions, try these tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics and CDC.

  1. Call someone for help, a family member or friend can have some great info or insider tips that worked for them!
  2. Ask your pediatrician! Your doctor will have information on  breastfeeding, can offer you support and in some cases, you can ask to be referred to a lactation consultant.
  3. Do what is best for you and your baby! Each mother has a different experience and there is no right way that works for every baby.

For more tips on nursing check out these other resources! 

All content on this Web site, including medical opinion and any other health-related information, is for informational purposes only and should not be considered to be a specific diagnosis or treatment plan for any individual situation. Use of this site and the information contained herein does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the direct advice of your own doctor in connection with any questions or issues you may have regarding your own health or the health of others.

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