The size and shape of nipples and breasts vary widely between women. These differences have little to do with the ability to breastfeed—though if one or both nipples are flat or inverted some mothers find that establishing breastfeeding takes a little extra time and patience in the early … [Read more...] about Inverted nipples
Breastfeeding Information
If You Leave Your Baby
When you and your baby have a satisfying breastfeeding relationship, preparing for any separation can leave you with mixed feelings. This is regardless of whether you’ll be away from your baby for just an hour or two, or longer. You may be concerned about whether your baby will take your expressed … [Read more...] about If You Leave Your Baby
Dummies and Breastfeeding
Sucking is a basic instinct that babies are born with. Babies suck for both food and comfort. Breastmilk also provides protection against disease so nature has made sure that babies love to be at the breast. They are comforted by the warmth, smell, delicious milk and reassuring sound of your … [Read more...] about Dummies and Breastfeeding
Caesarean Birth and Breastfeeding
There are many reasons why you may be considering, or already have had, a caesarean birth. (1) While a vaginal birth is biologically optimal for a healthy mother and baby, it’s not always the safest or most appropriate choice. (2) You might be facing complications in your pregnancy that make a … [Read more...] about Caesarean Birth and Breastfeeding
Beginning Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is normal and natural but it may take you and your baby time to learn. Breastfeed early Breastfeed often Colostrum Learn to breastfeed comfortably Allow them to take full feeds Watch for signs they are hungry After your milk comes in Give only your milk Night feeds are … [Read more...] about Beginning Breastfeeding
Antenatal Expression of Colostrum
Mothers start to produce colostrum (early milk) while pregnant. Being able to express colostrum is a useful skill to have. Saving your expressed colostrum may also be beneficial if your baby is likely to need special care after birth. Why express while pregnant? Being familiar with your breasts … [Read more...] about Antenatal Expression of Colostrum
Adjusting to Motherhood
Some mothers find  their experience of having a baby is very different from the vision of motherhood we see so much of the time. Having challenges, even feeling overwhelmed, is a normal experience. An emotional time Get to know and enjoy your baby What about household responsibilities and older … [Read more...] about Adjusting to Motherhood
Breastfeeding: how the biological norm became perceived as a modern day pressure
Breastfeeding is the biological norm.  Breastmilk is uniquely suited for a human baby and discoveries are still being made about the way it interacts with an infant to give it optimal development. For thousands of years women gave birth and nursed their babies, supported by a close-knit group of … [Read more...] about Breastfeeding: how the biological norm became perceived as a modern day pressure
Breastfeeding Beyond a Year
Establishing breastfeeding is not always easy and in the first few weeks eight out of ten women who stop do so before they had intended to.  However once breastfeeding is going well it usually becomes a very important and enjoyable part of mothering. Breastfeeding, co-sleeping with a baby and … [Read more...] about Breastfeeding Beyond a Year
Breastfeeding and the Environment
Breastfeeding is one of the best ways to protect both our planet’s ecosystems and our health. It helps to ensure food security, has a positive effect on maternal and child health and wellbeing, and is vastly important to our carbon footprint. Advantages to the environment There’s no food more … [Read more...] about Breastfeeding and the Environment