The Breastfeeding Privilege

How does a mother breastfeed effectively? Once the milk has come in, people readily get the impression that the rest is natural and easy. The mother instinctively knows what to do. Unfortunately, that is usually not the case. The whole process of breastfeeding is not so simple after all.

First, it may feel awkward. Second, there is a lot of discomfort. A baby needs to be fed every two hours if breastfed, and every three if formula-fed. If a mother decides to breastfeed, the most critical hours will be around nine in the evening until dawn. Everybody is in deep slumber while she has to wake up feed a hungry little being. Yup! It takes a lot of sacrifice and a mommy cannot help but to ask, "Geez! When is this ever going to end? When can I ever get some rest?"

One may consider getting some help from reliable milk banks. They have stored breast milk from mommies who have more than enough and they assist those who may need help in feeding their newborn. Properly stored breast milk can last up to six months. So a mother may want to take advantage of this.

One scheme that I have personally devised when my baby was born, was to have him feed from me when everybody else is asleep. I feed for about fifteen minutes on one side and another fifteen on the other. He sometimes stops sucking after only a few minutes. I know he has not had enough for the feeding so all I do is to gently massage his jaw and after a few circular motions, my little one resumes his meal. I also make sure that I have soft pillows supporting my back and arms to lessen discomfort. The whole routine lasts for thirty to forty minutes.

At day break, members of the household are ready to take over and sit for the baby. By this time, I can already take a much needed sleep. While resting, my baby is fed with stored breast milk from the milk bank. That way, he still gets the benefits of all natural milk.

If a mother is really to think about it, the period when the baby feeds from her is very brief. Out of his entire lifetime, it lasts for only a few months. These moments are the perfect time for her to grow in relationship with her baby. She may sing to him, talk to him, massage his legs, or simply stare at his beautiful face. A mother is indeed very privileged to share this tender experience with her precious little angel.